6 Things to Say to Your Wife When the Kids Are Listening In

The creak of the floorboards gave Jameson away. My son has developed a knack for eavesdropping, just in case he can catch wind of something exciting—like plans for his next big game or birthday surprise. This time, though, his ears caught something a bit less magical: a disagreement between Christa and me over bills and budgets. And, I’ll admit, I’d just let a not-so-kind comment about her spending slip out.

Arguments happen, even in the strongest marriages. Sometimes, those disagreements unfold with little ears tuned in. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and shift the narrative. Instead of letting kids overhear frustration or criticism, we can fill their ears with words that lift, build, and demonstrate the foundation of a loving, respectful marriage. Here are six affirmations you can say about your wife—or directly to her—that are worth saying out loud when the kids are within earshot.