I get angry with my kids. Am I a bad mother?

In this age of over-conscious parenting, some parents attempt to never - ever - lose it with their kids. We are supposed to be the most well-read and educated generation of parents. If anything goes wrong, it only stems from our own ignorance. But hey, no matter how much we read up on things, no matter how much we know from developmental experts, we’re still basically human beings with emotions… right?

I have two young children, who despite being the loves of my life, can annoy the living daylights out of me. My daughter can cry up a storm that goes on and on… and on. And for what? Because she cannot have one more piece of chocolate after the two Hershey’s kisses I had already given her. My son can give me grief over having to shut down the television or computer — despite the long-standing rule that it’s an hour post-lunch and another hour post-dinner. See, our routine is consistent and yet I’m still awful for merely sticking to it?

After I give them a too-loud-scolding, an impatient explanation or if I roughly put on their clothes in frustration I always feel miserable after. Anger is not new to me. I have a temper I have worked hard to control over the years. My own mother’s “disciplining” methods would probably raise eyebrows with a social worker. So… my biggest fear is ending up to become that bad, scary mom who is angry all the time.

I know I am far from that, but sometimes guilt eats me up on the occasion that I do lose it. I know I am not raising any eyebrows among social workers, but I also know that I could learn to be more patient with these rambunctious, precocious kids. I am getting there and I try my best everyday.

The great thing is, I am not the perfect mom, but my kids love me anyway. Most of the time they’re good kids. Most of the time I’m not angry at them!

So, should I ever apologize when I inappropriately lose my cool once in a while? Many experts say, yes. Our kids may even learn a thing or two about rising above our mistakes and human frailties.

They explain, admitting that you made a mistake won’t undermine your authority. I actually gives you credibility. Pointing out that you know you overstepped the rules of civilized behavior underscores the idea that having rules and behaving nicely are important. It shows you’re only human and it models remorse. Plus, you’re apt to feel a lot better afterward.

Yes, feeling a little better already.