Parenting is an adventure filled with endless surprises, love, and a fair share of secrets. While parents strive to create a perfect world for their children, there are certain things they do behind the scenes that they might never admit to.
These little secrets add a touch of humor and humanity to the parenting journey, making it an experience like no other.
Here are 36 amusing things that parents secretly do, but will never admit to! Enjoy this lighthearted peek into the mysterious world of parenting!
1. Pretend to Be Asleep
Few skills are mastered as quickly in parenthood as the art of pretending to sleep. Whether it’s the crack of dawn when little feet come pattering into the bedroom or a late-night call for water, parents have perfected the ability to remain perfectly still, breathing evenly, hoping their child moves on.
This isn’t just about squeezing in a few more moments of rest—it’s a last-ditch effort to delay the inevitable chaos that comes with every new day. While the house stirs and whispers grow louder, they cling to those final seconds of tranquility, knowing full well the moment won’t last.
Parents everywhere share this unspoken secret. They may never admit to their kids that they heard every giggle, every whisper, and every plea for cereal, but they’ll keep up the charade just a little longer.
2. Eat Treats in Secret
Somewhere, in the quietest corner of the house, a parent is unwrapping a chocolate bar at lightning speed, hoping the crinkle of the wrapper doesn’t alert tiny, treat-seeking ears. The stealth, the precision, the sheer relief of enjoying a snack uninterrupted—it’s practically an Olympic event.
This isn’t just about a sugar fix; it’s about reclaiming a tiny moment of indulgence. Whether it’s a secret stash in the top cabinet or a late-night fridge raid, parents know that some sweets simply weren’t meant to be shared.
If caught mid-bite, the cover-up is swift—“Oh, this? It’s spicy. You wouldn’t like it.” And just like that, another treat is safely enjoyed in sweet, guilt-free solitude.
3. Use Kids as an Excuse
Children, without realizing it, become the ultimate get-out-of-anything card. That awkward dinner invitation? “Oh, we’d love to, but the baby has been fussy lately.” The long work event? “We can’t find a sitter.” Even the occasional night out gets derailed with, “Sorry, the little one isn’t feeling great.”
While these excuses aren’t always necessary, they offer an easy escape from unwanted obligations. Parenthood is unpredictable, and that unpredictability provides the perfect alibi.
No one questions a parent’s absence when they mention a teething baby or a last-minute school project. It’s the ultimate trump card, and parents wield it wisely.
4. Hide in the Bathroom
To the outside world, a bathroom break is a basic necessity. To a parent, it’s a carefully planned retreat. Behind that locked door, they steal a rare moment of solitude—scrolling on their phone, sipping coffee, or just enjoying the sound of…nothing.
The bathroom is a sacred space, a fortress of temporary escape. Sure, there’s the occasional tiny hand knocking on the door, a little voice calling “Mom? Dad?” but for a brief moment, they get to breathe.
Eventually, they’ll emerge, ready to rejoin the daily whirlwind. But for those few precious minutes, it’s their sanctuary, and they’re not giving it up without a fight.
5. Skip Pages During Storytime
Bedtime stories are a cherished tradition, but when exhaustion kicks in, parents become master storytellers in a different way—by artfully skipping entire pages. A well-placed yawn, a subtle page turn, and suddenly, the story is wrapping up much faster than expected.
The best part? The kids are usually none the wiser. Caught up in the magic of the tale, they remain blissfully unaware that half the bedtime saga has mysteriously disappeared.
Sure, there’s a risk. A particularly observant child might protest: “That’s not how it goes!” But for the sleep-deprived parent, it’s a risk worth taking for a few extra minutes of quiet at the end of the day.
6. Steal Halloween Candy
After a night of trick-or-treating, while little ones are sound asleep, parents conduct their own candy inspection—also known as “tax collection.” It’s an unspoken rule: they braved the costume tantrums and supervised the sugar-fueled chaos, so a few select pieces are rightfully theirs.
Under the guise of ensuring “safety,” they sift through the stash, quietly claiming the best chocolates and hiding wrappers like seasoned professionals. The next morning, the kids may notice a suspiciously lighter candy bag, but the mystery remains unsolved.
It’s a timeless tradition, passed down through generations, and no parent has ever felt guilty about it.
7. Invent Pretend Phone Calls
A ringing phone is the perfect escape hatch. Whether avoiding a long conversation, dodging a meltdown, or sneaking a few moments of peace, parents have perfected the fake phone call.
With a serious nod and a hushed “Uh-huh, very important,” they pace the room, phone in hand, skillfully weaving an imaginary conversation that conveniently buys them time.
This clever maneuver isn’t deception—it’s survival. Sometimes, the only way to get out of answering 47 questions about dinosaurs is to suddenly have an “urgent” call from work.
8. Watch Cartoons Alone
Kids’ shows may start as background noise, but somewhere along the way, parents get invested. Long after bedtime, they find themselves watching an episode alone, just to see what happens next.
What began as a reluctant interest transforms into genuine enjoyment. Before they know it, they’re humming the theme song, debating character arcs, and sneaking in an episode while folding laundry.
They tell themselves it’s for the kids, but deep down, they know they’d watch it even if no little ones were around.
9. Use Screen Time as a Babysitter
While every parent vows to limit screen time, there are moments when handing over a tablet is the only way to survive. Whether it’s tackling an urgent task or simply needing five minutes of uninterrupted quiet, technology becomes an ally.
Yes, they know the recommended guidelines. Yes, they set limits. But sometimes, peace and sanity outweigh principles, and that’s perfectly okay.
There’s no shame in using a well-placed cartoon to make life just a little bit easier.
10. Secretly Compete with Other Parents
No parent openly admits to it, but silent competitions exist. Whether it’s whose child reached a milestone first, who packs the healthiest lunches, or whose holiday decorations look the best, comparisons happen—even if only internally.
It’s never mean-spirited, just an occasional check-in on how they measure up. Sometimes, it’s motivating. Other times, it’s just amusing.
In the end, parenting isn’t a contest. But that doesn’t stop them from taking a little extra pride when their kid says “please” and “thank you” without prompting.
11. Blame ‘The Dog’
In the world of parenting, pets often become unwitting scapegoats for various mishaps. When something goes awry, parents humorously blame “the dog.” Whether it’s a knocked-over vase or a mysteriously missing sandwich, the furry friend takes the fall.
This playful tactic adds a layer of humor to household chaos. Parents know that their loyal companions can’t protest, making them perfect culprits for minor mishaps. It’s a lighthearted way to diffuse tension and share a laugh.
The tradition of blaming the dog is a reminder of the unique bond between families and their pets. While the dog may not understand the ruse, parents appreciate the humor it brings to everyday life. It’s a shared secret that adds joy to the parenting experience.
12. Wear Pajamas All Day
Few things feel as liberating as spending the entire day in pajamas, a quiet luxury parents fully embrace. When the schedule is packed and responsibilities pile up, comfort takes priority over style. Pajamas become the go-to uniform, a soft, cozy rebellion against the outside world.
This isn’t just about convenience—it’s a small act of self-care. The endless demands of parenting mean parents have to pick their battles, and if that means answering emails, preparing meals, and chasing toddlers while wrapped in flannel, so be it.
Outsiders might assume it’s a sign of exhaustion, but parents know better. It’s a badge of honor, a silent nod to the art of balancing comfort and chaos with a smile.
13. Use Kids’ Slang
At some point, every parent attempts to bridge the generational gap by slipping their child’s slang into conversation. Whether it’s calling something “fire,” saying a joke is “sus,” or dramatically claiming “it’s giving,” they test out the latest lingo—sometimes with embarrassing results.
It’s not just about staying relevant; it’s an effort to connect, to understand their world in a way that makes their kids do a double-take. While reactions range from amused eye-rolls to genuine horror, the attempt alone earns some respect.
They may never use the words quite right, but that won’t stop them from trying. Because nothing says “cool parent” like awkwardly declaring dinner is “low-key bussin’.”
14. Secretly Enjoy Kid Shows
What starts as background noise during playtime quickly turns into genuine intrigue. Before they know it, parents find themselves invested in the plot, humming theme songs in the shower, and sneaking in episodes long after bedtime.
Maybe it’s the feel-good simplicity, the catchy tunes, or the surprisingly good storylines, but kids’ shows have an undeniable charm. And while they might pretend they’re only watching Bluey for the kids, deep down, they’re just as captivated.
It’s a guilty pleasure they won’t admit, but if their child happens to lose interest mid-season, they’ll absolutely “accidentally” finish it alone.
15. Hide Toys for Quiet Time
When noise levels reach ear-splitting levels, parents have a secret weapon: the strategic disappearance of the loudest toys. Whether it’s an obnoxious siren-blaring truck, a doll with an endless loop of songs, or a toy keyboard that won’t quit, these offenders mysteriously vanish when peace is in jeopardy.
Of course, they’re never gone forever—just tucked away on a high shelf, conveniently “forgotten” until the coast is clear. Kids might search, puzzled by the sudden absence, but parents will feign innocence with an expert poker face.
It’s not sabotage; it’s survival. And if the toy is never missed? Well, let’s just say the donation bin might have a new occupant.
16. Pretend to Be Busy
Parenting is a full-time job, but every now and then, parents master the art of looking busy to snag a moment of peace. With furrowed brows and deep sighs, they shuffle papers, stare intensely at their phone, or type randomly on a keyboard to appear deeply occupied.
This trick isn’t about slacking—it’s about securing a few uninterrupted minutes before the next “Mom! Dad!” echoes through the house. Whether it’s dodging a chore, avoiding a sibling dispute, or simply needing a breather, a well-timed “One second, I’m in the middle of something important” works wonders.
Little do the kids know, that “important” task might just be scrolling memes.
17. Use the ‘Five More Minutes’ Trick
Parents have a secret superpower—the ability to stretch time. Whether it’s delaying bedtime, prolonging park visits, or buying themselves a moment of peace, the “five more minutes” trick is a classic go-to.
It’s a negotiation tactic disguised as generosity. The kids feel like they’ve won a tiny victory, completely unaware that five minutes can stretch into ten… or disappear entirely when bedtime finally rolls around.
Call it a parenting loophole or a gentle form of time manipulation, but it’s a strategy that keeps the peace while subtly steering the schedule back on track.
18. Stash Favorite Snacks
Some snacks simply aren’t meant for sharing. Every parent has a top-secret hiding spot where their favorite treats are safely tucked away—high pantry shelves, behind the vegetable drawer, even inside cereal boxes that no one dares touch.
This isn’t about selfishness; it’s about self-preservation. When snack time rolls around, the kids get their fair share, but when exhaustion hits at the end of the day, that hidden stash becomes a lifeline.
And if a child ever stumbles upon the secret supply? A dramatic, “Oh, that’s… uh… for emergencies only” usually does the trick.
19. Sing Silly Songs Alone
Children’s songs have a way of embedding themselves into a parent’s brain. Long after the kids have stopped singing, parents find themselves absentmindedly humming along, sometimes even adding their own ridiculous lyrics just for fun.
A silly song while folding laundry? Check. A spontaneous dance break in the kitchen? Absolutely. They may play it cool in public, but behind closed doors, they’re putting on full performances.
It’s proof that parenthood rewires the brain, permanently embedding jingles into memory. And honestly? Sometimes, those songs slap.
20. The ‘Forgotten’ Dessert
Not all treats are meant for little hands, and sometimes, parents conveniently “forget” about that pint of ice cream or last slice of cake in the fridge. It’s not deception—it’s just strategic planning for an adults-only moment of indulgence.
They’ll nod along as their child assumes all the cookies are gone, all while knowing exactly where they’ve hidden the best snacks. And when the house is finally quiet, out comes the secret dessert, enjoyed in blissful solitude.
This small rebellion isn’t just about the food—it’s about savoring something without having to share.
21. Distract with Questions
When faced with an impending tantrum or an unanswerable question, parents pull out their most reliable tool: a well-placed distraction. “Oh wow, did you see that bird outside?” or “What’s your favorite dinosaur again?”—suddenly, the crisis is averted.
This isn’t deception—it’s redirection. By engaging their child’s curiosity, they seamlessly guide the conversation away from potential meltdowns and into safer, less dramatic territory.
It’s a simple trick, but one that has saved countless parents from public meltdowns, dinner-table arguments, and car-ride chaos.
22. Secretly Re-Gift
Every parent has a collection of unopened toys, duplicate gifts, or random knick-knacks collecting dust. And when a last-minute birthday party invitation rolls in? Voilà—instant present.
Re-gifting isn’t about being cheap—it’s about practicality. If a brand-new toy has been sitting untouched for months, why not let it bring joy to another child?
The key is stealth. The original giver must never find out, and the child must never recognize their once-forgotten gift in someone else’s hands. When executed correctly, it’s a flawless system.
23. Texting Under the Table
Any seasoned parent knows the golden rule: when the kids are entertained, sneak in some rest. Whether it’s reclining on the couch while pretending to “watch” a cartoon or closing their eyes for just a minute during an intense LEGO-building session, parents become masters of the micro-nap.
It’s not deep sleep, but it’s enough to recharge. And if anyone asks? They were just “resting their eyes.”
24. Pretend to Forget Rules for Fun
Sometimes the monotony of household rules calls for a little rule-bending fun. This could mean allowing dessert before dinner or staying up past bedtime for a movie night under the stars.
These moments of “forgetfulness” are often planned to break the routine and bring a dose of happiness and spontaneity into family life. It’s a harmless way to let loose and create memories that will be laughed about for years.
Such acts may seem minor but provide a sense of freedom and joy, showing kids that following the rules is important, but knowing when to break them can be just as valuable.
25. Use the ‘All Gone’ Trick
Not every snack needs to be shared, and parents have perfected the ultimate excuse: “Oh no, it’s all gone!” Whether it’s the last cookie or the good chips, a well-timed sigh and an apologetic shrug keep it safely out of reach.
The kids may accept it at first, but eventually, they start catching on. “Wait, why are you chewing?” Suspicion grows, and parents have to think fast—”Oh, this? It’s just a grown-up snack, you wouldn’t like it.”
This little fib isn’t cruel; it’s a survival tactic. Some things are best enjoyed in peace, away from tiny, eager hands.
26. Have Secret Dance Parties
When no one’s watching, parents let loose in the best way possible—by throwing their own private dance parties. Whether it’s cranking up their favorite ‘90s hits or jamming out to guilty pleasure songs, they rediscover the joy of movement without any tiny critics judging their questionable dance moves.
Sometimes, it’s in the kitchen while waiting for pasta to boil. Other times, it’s an impromptu solo performance in the living room when the kids are at school. No choreography, no rules—just pure, uninhibited fun.
These moments serve as a reminder that adulthood doesn’t have to mean giving up the little joys. And when the kids eventually catch them mid-twirl? Well, that just makes it even better.
27. Practice Silly Voices for Fun
Every parent has, at some point, stood in front of a mirror or whispered to themselves, testing out new silly voices before debuting them during storytime. The deep, booming monster? The squeaky fairy? The sleepy bear? They all need fine-tuning before the bedtime audience arrives.
This secret rehearsing isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about commitment. Parents don’t just read books; they perform them. The kids might think their parents are just naturally gifted at voices, but behind the scenes, it’s a different story.
And when they nail the perfect pirate growl or wizardly wisdom, the standing ovation (or the kid bursting into giggles) is totally worth it.
28. Use Reverse Psychology
Telling a child they non può do something is often the quickest way to ensure they’ll do it. That’s why parents have mastered the art of reverse psychology, expertly suggesting the opposite of what they actually want.
“You probably don’t even want to clean up your toys, right?” Suddenly, tiny hands are scrambling to prove them wrong. “Bet you can’t get into bed in under 10 seconds!” And just like that, bedtime resistance disappears.
It’s not manipulation—it’s creative persuasion. A little playful trickery goes a long way in steering kids toward the right choices while letting them feel like it was loro idea all along.
29. Have a Secret Snack Stash
Hidden in the highest cabinet, tucked behind the cereal boxes, or even buried in the freezer lies a treasure trove of carefully concealed snacks. Parents don’t just stash treats—they safeguard them from discovery like a dragon hoarding gold.
It’s not that they don’t share; it’s just that some moments call for a special indulgence without having to negotiate over how many bites each person gets. The stress of the day melts away with one glorious, uninterrupted piece of chocolate.
If their hiding spot is ever found? Time for a new one. The game of snack hide-and-seek is an ongoing challenge, but parents always stay one step ahead.
30. Invent ‘Magical’ Stories at Bedtime
Bedtime doesn’t always require a book. Sometimes, the best stories are the ones parents make up on the spot—tales of enchanted forests, talking animals, or heroic kids who just so happen to resemble their own children.
They spin tales filled with adventure, mystery, and just enough suspense to keep little eyes wide with wonder. And the best part? The kids have no idea their parents are completely winging it.
These made-up stories become cherished memories, and even though parents may forget them by morning, the kids will remember them forever.
31. Borrow Kids’ Toys
Parents may pretend they’re just picking up a toy off the floor, but every once in a while, they actually enjoy playing with it. Maybe it’s the satisfying click of LEGO bricks snapping together, the nostalgia of coloring with fresh crayons, or the temptation to take the remote-controlled car for a spin.
These tiny moments of childhood joy sneak back into their lives, disguised as “just testing it out” or “making sure it works.” But let’s be honest—they’re having fun.
And if the kids aren’t home? That LEGO castle might just get a little more elaborate.
32. Use ‘The Clean-Up Game’
Getting kids to clean up can feel impossible—unless, of course, it’s a game. Parents have learned that turning chores into a competition, a race, or a silly challenge is the fastest way to get results.
“Let’s see who can put away the most toys in 30 seconds!” Suddenly, tiny hands are moving at lightning speed. “I bet I can fold more clothes than you!” Laundry gets done before they even realize it was work.
It’s a win-win. The house gets tidier, and the kids feel like they just won an epic challenge. Meanwhile, the parents walk away, secretly proud of their parenting ninja skills.
33. Sneak a Nap While Kids Are Distracted
While the kids are deeply focused on a cartoon or happily engaged in their toys, parents see their chance. A strategically placed couch cushion, a perfectly timed head tilt—and suddenly, they’re “just resting their eyes.”
It’s not a full nap, but those precious five or ten minutes are enough to recharge. The art of sneaking in rest is a delicate one; wake too soon, and it’s wasted. Wake too late, and the chaos will remind you why sleep is so rare in the first place.
If caught? “Oh, I was just thinking really hard!” works every time.
34. Master the Art of ‘Selective Hearing’
Parents have developed an almost supernatural ability to filter out certain sounds while remaining hyper-aware of others. They can completely tune out the 47th repetition of “Mom, watch this!” while instantly perking up at the faintest “crash” from another room.
This isn’t neglect—it’s survival. If they reacted to every single sound, they’d never get a moment of peace. It’s a delicate balance between paying attention and preserving their own sanity.
And when they hear, “But I told you already!” they simply nod and pretend they were listening all along.
35. Secretly Switching Cartoons
There are times when parents covertly switch from children’s cartoons to their favorite shows, especially when the kids are momentarily distracted. It’s a sneaky but harmless act that provides them with a short-lived reprieve from animated chaos.
This little switch is a balancing act, ensuring the kids remain oblivious while parents indulge in their preferred content. Often, it’s about finding that perfect moment when the kids’ attention is elsewhere.
Parents cherish these brief moments of grown-up TV time, even if it lasts for just a few minutes. It’s a secret indulgence that adds a dash of excitement to their day.
36. Take ‘Mental Health Days’
Parents sometimes take secret “mental health days,” prioritizing self-care amidst the demands of family life. With intentionality, they carve out time to relax, rejuvenate, and recharge, embracing moments of tranquility.
This tradition is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of parents. By prioritizing mental health, they nurture their own well-being, enhancing their capacity to care for their families.
The art of taking mental health days is a reminder that self-care is essential in parenting. It’s a secret strategy that balances responsibilities with personal needs, fostering harmony and happiness. In these moments of rest, parents find strength to face the challenges of everyday life.