The Power of Saying “I’m Sorry” to Your Child

Hello MindFull Readers,

I sincerely hope you grew up hearing the words “I’m sorry” when you rightfully deserved an apology.

But if you didn’t, you’re not alone. Many of us were raised in homes where apologies from parents were rare, where parents had the mindset of because we’re your parents we’re always right or where mistakes were brushed aside as if children didn’t notice.

The truth is children do notice. They notice when we lose our temper. They notice when we say something sharp. They notice when our actions don’t align with our words. And they also notice when we own up to it.

Apologising doesn’t make us weak. It doesn’t mean we’ve lost authority. In fact, it models one of the most powerful lessons we can teach as adults:

• That love includes accountability.

• That mistakes can be repaired.

• That humility builds trust.

I didn’t hear apologies growing up, and it made me internalise that my feelings weren’t important. So now, when I apologise to my children, I’m not just repairing with them but I’m also reparenting the little girl inside me who longed to hear those words from the adults that surrounded her.

It’s never too late to break this cycle. The next time you make a mistake, try leaning in with:

“I’m truly sorry. I shouldn’t have spoken to you that way. I’ll try my best to do better.”

That one small phrase can plant seeds of safety and respect that last a lifetime. 🩵

With warmth and mindfulness,

Michelle Lim | Reparenting Coach

I help you break free from generational trauma and nurture a new cycle of emotional safety — by reparenting your inner child.

P.S. Ready to explore whether reparenting coaching is right for you?

Book a free 30-minute Healing & Growth Call — no pressure, just a heart-to-heart:

👉 Schedule here 🩵

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