Being aware of what children hear

Parents sometimes forget that children are within earshot of what the parents are saying. Comments that parents sometimes make can be very harmful to children. The way children interpret comments can be very different than what a parent is expressing. Children often are frightened, confused, or angered by comments parents make and the parents are not even aware of the fact that the child has heard them make a statement that could have been misinterpreted or should not have been heard.
Parents must be aware of what they say, where their children are, and whether or not it is the best interest of the child to hear their comments. It is also in the parents best interest in order to avoid even more challenges or conflicts down the road.
Children will rarely disclose that they have heard something hurtful or upsetting, they will simply internalize these thoughts and that can be very harmful since they might not understand what was actually meant or have all the information needed. A child's imagination can make some statements seem much worse than they are. Children do not have the skills necessary for coping or managing adult problems and parents should not expect children to do so. Parents are responsible for being honest but also for presenting issues to children in age appropriate ways that children can handle and feel secure.
So parents be careful if you want to avoid causing your child unnecessary distress and likely undesirable emotional or behavioral consequences to your comments.
Be kind, considerate, and thoughtful of your children and it will make your life easier too!