Easing Embarassment

Parenthood is rewarding, but some days you feel as though you're trapped in an extended Saturday Night Live episode. There are tons of awkward situations that always seem to happen in public. Laura Kalehoff of American Baby Magazine gives tips on how to handle awkward situations with good humor and grace.

Does this sound familiar...your normally adorable baby starts screaming the second you step on the plane and all of your fellow passengers are glaring at you? No one wants to be on a plane with a crying baby, the crying baby's mother included! So, there are a few options. Dirty looks from other passengers can be handled by waving down the flight attendant and buying a round of drinks for everyone sitting nearby. Another way to handle the dirty looks is to commiserate with your seatmates, "Sorry my daughter is so loud" can go a long way. A smile and a "Wish I brought earplugs to go around" can work too.

Has your child yelled out a really bad word in the middle of the supermarket? When toddlers are learning how to say words properly, their garbled constants can sometimes make something completely innocent sound completely dirty. The best safe face strategy is to explain it away. Offering quick clarification like "What my baby actually meant to say..." can help take away the embarrassment. It might also spur uncomfortable bystanders to breathe a sigh of relief.

Chances are your baby will get sick ON you one day. It always seems to happen when you are either all dressed up with no change of clothes or stuck in line somewhere like security at the airport. The most important thing to remember in this situation is do not be ashamed to ask for help. There will always be another mom close by with spare tissues or napkins to help you out. When disasters like this strike, an offer of assistance can be as comforting as a hug. Say yes to whatever aid comes your way.

You've been looking forward to your family reunion but every time a relative approaches your baby he freaks out. It's never easy to tell someone that their mere presence sends your baby into a tailspin. Be gentle but honest. One of our readers was in a situation like this with a relative who had a beard. She had to explain that her son doesn't get to see many people with beards and it can be a little unnerving. Remind love ones that baby's reaction is neither personal nor permanent.

For more information on surviving embarrassing moments with your baby and other parenting tips, click here.