“Over the past year, I’ve noticed my 7-year-old daughter adopting many of my mannerisms and preferences. First, it was appearance stuff, like outfit choices or the way she wore her hair. Then she started showing an interest in things I do, like early morning walks around the block, manicures, and photography,” writes Samm Davidson. Finally, it clicked: mom is her idol. That’s a heavy weight to carry! And Samm’s talking about it.

Sometimes your kid says things right to your face that make you want to absolutely hit the roof… but you can’t. But we’re here to help, with five phrases provided by a psychologist. Have them ready to go!