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16 alaska parent winter 2025/26 AlaskaParent.comEvery parent has been there and most of the time other parents understand the ups and downs of parenting and are willing to be patient and excuse behaviors that seem impolite or embarrassing. Sticky situations with kids can be difficult to navigate, but there are a few things you can do to make the best of them. YOUR CHILD DOES SOMETHING RUDE AT A RESTAURANTYou%u2019re eating out and your child does something gross or impolite like burping, picking their nose, or throwing food. Place your hand on the child%u2019s shoulder and quietly ask them to stop the behavior and explain that they are being impolite. If you think their behavior is rooted in attention seeking and is somewhat tolerable, it may be appropriate to simply ignore it. However, if your child persists, it may be best to ask them to take a bathroom break. When you return to the table, try to find something to distract your child. Some parents may bring a tablet, coloring book, or small toys to keep their child busy while waiting for their food. But if you find yourself unprepared you can play %u201cI spy%u201d or another guessing game to keep them occupied. SOLUTIONS TO STICKY SITUATIONSBY SARAH LYONSYOU%u2019RE IN PUBLIC AND YOUR CHILD MAKES AN EMBARRASSING COMMENT TO SOMEONE. THEY THROW FOOD WHILE YOU ARE EATING AT A RESTAURANT. THEY SHARE AN EMBARRASSING STORY ABOUT YOU.PRO PARENT TIP: Put together a %u201cbusy bag%u201d that you can bring to restaurants. Include a few art supplies, small toys, books, magnet toys, or fidgets to keep your child occupied while waiting. To keep your child%u2019s interest, switch out the items often and only allow them to play with it when you are at a restaurant or other situation where they need to be quiet. YOUR CHILD MAKES A RUDE COMMENT TO A STRANGER This can be one of the most embarrassing situations for a parent. My cousin once went up to an elderly man and told him, %u201cYou are old and will die soon.%u201d If your child makes a comment about someone%u2019s appearance, it%u2019s best to quickly apologize to the person they offended. If appropriate, have your child apologize to them as well. Let your child know that it is never okay to make fun of someone%u2019s appearance or comment on their race, weight, or age. If you feel that your child is simply curious about something and not making the comment rudely, try to take the time to explain to your child. For example, if your child has a question about why someone is in a wheelchair you could explain that they need it to help them move around. PRO PARENT TIP: Let your child know that people come in all sizes, shapes, races, and ages. Our differences are what makes us each special. Your child will follow your lead when it comes to