7 Awkward Mom Moments and How to Deal

As a parent of a growing kid, it's easy to forget that sometimes, kids aren't exactly socially inclined. While you probably do all you can to make sure your little one says "please" and "thank you", there are going to be times when she makes you turn red in the face. You might want to crawl into the playground sand and never come out, but dealing with awkward mom moments swiftly is the best course of action.

1. Your kid hits another on the playground. You probably get your mama bear on when another child hurts yours, but what happens when your angel is the bully? There's nothing worse than seeing a mom ignore her kid's bad behavior, so get on the case ASAP.

• How to deal: After breaking up the fight and disciplining your little Rocky, come clean with the other child's mom. Admitting that your child was the instigator and that you hope the victim is OK can go a long way in making sure you and your kid aren't playground pariahs.

2. A doctor gets on your case. Younger kids aren't exactly strangers to the doctor's office, but things can go unnoticed ... by both you and your pediatrician. If your doctor gets on your case about skipping a vaccination, missing a milestone or your child's third appointment in a month, take a hard line.

• How to deal: Let your doc know that you're grateful for his opinion and want your child to be healthy. If it's something that you can remedy through therapy or medical intervention, go for it. Otherwise, don't sweat it. As long as you've got a healthy child, you're doing an awesome job.

3. Someone disciplines your child in front of you. The idea of someone chiding your kiddo without your say can be seriously frustrating. Not only are you annoyed that someone else is stepping in, but you're embarrassed that your kid acted up in the first place. Awkward!

• How to deal: If you catch another adult playing parent, thank him for his concern and let him know you'll take it from there. Or, if you don't think it's a big deal, let him know it's OK to relax. "Kaylee is a great climber so I think she's okay on the monkey bars. Thanks for looking out for her though!"

4. Your child spills the beans about your family secret. Every family has a little dirty laundry, but letting your little one in on it might be a lot like printing your secret on the front page of the newspaper. You and your husband might be arguing more ... but the PTA doesn't need to know.

• How to deal: Keep your child in the loop on a "need to know" basis only. Personal issues should be kept under wraps, especially when around a child who doesn't really understand. If she does let everyone know, use a sense of humor to diffuse an awkward mom moment and deflect follow-up questions.

5. Potty training becomes a public affair. Your grown-up kid is probably proud of her potty prowess, so she wants to share with everyone! You, on the other hand, might not be as excited to let complete strangers know when your child has to go.

• How to deal: Get thee to the nearest bathroom! Luckily, while your child's announcement has you turning red, it probably doesn't faze the general public. Just pop into a toilet as quickly as possible and laugh off any off-color remarks.