AIBU to be honest with my children

[bluecoconuts]

I have made various mistakes in life and obviously like most parents am keen for my children not to follow my example.

What I don't want is for them to think I'm a pathetic failure - but it's now to word it. Basically I want their life to be totally different to mine but I'm meant to be a role-model for them.

Has anyone else experienced this difficulty?

[Mummyoflittledragon]

I will definitely be talking about my experiences with dd. Including simple things like going for a midnight swim having had a couple of drinks. Dd has a medical condition so I want her to know how unsafe these choices are and not to give in to peer pressure as I didn't want to go.

[DJBaggySmalls]

I'm honest about the broad path from A to Z, but not the fine details. They shouldn't have to know some details.

Tell them the fact is, we survived and here we are. Its the survival skills and coping strategies they need to know. Everyone makes mistakes or has problems from ill health or other people at some time in their lives. Expect it..
Its better not to make bad mistakes. your life will be easier if you dont. but if you do, its usually salvageable.

[Crowdblundering]

The addiction was before I had children - I would not have (and did not) entertain bringing a child into that situation.

[bluecoconuts]

It was a rhetorical question really, Crowd. It's brilliant you turned it around but it's not really applicable in my situation.

[Crowdblundering]

I think by being honest you are being a role model.

It's important for kids to know we are not perfect - and then not such a terrible shock when they realise it's true!

[Neverknowing]

I agree with crowd. It's important to know your parents aren't perfect! Less learning from their mistakes, more learning even when you make mistakes or things aren't easy you can come out the other end !