"I'm Sorry"

Have you ever done something hurtful to your spouse or friend that it took you hours or days before you could say “Sorry”?
Saying “sorry” can be really tough. Now imagine someone forcing you to say sorry… IMMEDIATELY!? That would NOT end well! The best way to get a meaningful apology out of your kid is to…

Wait.

Wait an hour, wait until bedtime, wait until they request or have access to a preferred item/activity. These conversations and apologies will be much more meaningful. Now you both will be ready to communicate.
“Tell me what happened earlier with your sister?”
“Sure, let’s play a game but first…is there something you want to say to your mom?”
“Are you feeling better? What can we do next time when something makes you frustrated like that?”

They will see these conversations not as a chance to be defensive or embarrassed but as an opportunity to learn and grow. It teaches us so much as adults, that we also need to apologize when it’s necessary. It takes such a load off our shoulders and opens up the relationship for communication and trust.