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It’s a phrase heard in households around the world: “Go ask your mom.” Delivered with impeccable timing and just enough authority to make it sound final, this classic dad deflection is practically a parenting tradition. Whether it’s to avoid a meltdown, dodge a debate, or simply stay out of trouble, dads have a unique talent for redirecting the most precarious questions to the maternal unit. It’s not that dads don’t care—it’s that sometimes, they really don’t want to be the one who decides if a cookie before dinner is allowed. Here are seven moments when dads masterfully tap out and let mom take the lead.
1. The Snack Request Before Dinner
When a child tiptoes toward the kitchen asking for crackers or cookies just 30 minutes before dinner, Dad’s answer is swift: “Go ask your mom.” He knows better than to give an enthusiastic thumbs-up and risk dinner being spoiled—or worse, contradicting a rule that’s already been laid down. It’s a high-stakes scenario wrapped in crumbs and cheddar bunnies. Rather than face a potential food fight, dads often decide this is one of those situations best handled by Mom. After all, she’s the keeper of the dinner timeline.
2. The “Can I Sleep in Your Bed?” Plea
At some point in every family’s life, a little voice whispers in the dark, “Can I sleep with you?” Dad may be seconds from falling into a deep sleep, but he knows this question is a trap. If he says yes, he risks disrupting everyone’s night. If he says no, he might start a 2 a.m. sob session. So, he gently replies, “Go ask your mom,” buying himself time and peace while expertly passing the emotional torch.
3. The Last-Minute Permission Slip Panic
It’s 8:52 p.m. on a school night, and someone remembers a permission slip that needs signing—now. Dad’s mid-Netflix episode or prepping lunch for tomorrow when the child appears with a clipboard and a hopeful smile. He squints at the paper, sees the words “field trip” and “volunteer,” and immediately thinks, this is not my call. Rather than risk saying the wrong thing or missing the fine print, he deflects with the classic “go ask your mom.” Because if anyone remembers the schedule, it’s her.
4. The Question About Bodily Functions
Whether it’s an inquiry about periods, body odor, or something involving mysterious bathroom noises, dads have mastered the art of retreat. These moments often come with innocent curiosity and zero warning. Dad freezes, clears his throat, and gently redirects: “That’s a great question. You should really go ask your mom.” It’s not about avoidance—it’s about acknowledging he may not be the best resource for a five-minute TED Talk on puberty.
5. The Outfit Approval Crisis
A child appears in the hallway wearing a tutu, cowboy boots, and a tank top in December. Dad stares, confused, unsure whether this is a fashion experiment or a sign someone lost a bet. Before he can even offer a thumbs-up or suggest a jacket, the question comes: “Is this okay to wear?” Cue the familiar response: “Go ask your mom.” Because no dad wants to be held responsible for a cold kid or a clash of patterns in the family photo album.
6. The Party Invitation Dilemma
There’s always that moment when your child asks to go to a birthday party hosted by a classmate whose name you’ve never heard before. Details are fuzzy, the RSVP deadline was last week, and the party is apparently in another city. Dad gives a cautious nod and says, “Hmm… sounds fun. Better go ask your mom.” He’s not passing the buck; he’s trying not to accidentally agree to a three-hour trip across town for a bounce house and pizza.
7. The “Can I Have a Pet?” Campaign
From goldfish to guinea pigs, the pet requests come early and often. Dad may not be against the idea in theory, especially since there are benefits to having pets, but he knows exactly who’s going to end up feeding it, cleaning up after it, and rearranging schedules for vet visits. So before committing to even a beta fish, he pauses and says, “Let’s go ask your mom.” Pets are a family decision, and by “family,” he mostly means “whoever owns the Clorox wipes and the grocery budget.”
It’s Not Dodging, It’s Delegating
When dads say “go ask your mom,” it’s not always about avoiding the question—it’s about acknowledging where the true household expertise lies. Moms are often the keeper of details, the one with the calendar in her brain and the built-in radar for consequences. Dads have their own areas of mastery (looking at you, backyard BBQs and bedtime stories), but they also know when it’s best to pass the mic. And really, that kind of teamwork is parenting gold.
What’s the funniest or most unexpected “go ask your mom” moment you’ve experienced in your household? Drop your stories in the comments!
Read More:
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7 Ways You’re Accidentally Teaching Your Family Not to Trust You
Catherine is a tech-savvy writer who has focused on the personal finance space for more than eight years. She has a Bachelor’s in Information Technology and enjoys showcasing how tech can simplify everyday personal finance tasks like budgeting, spending tracking, and planning for the future. Additionally, she’s explored the ins and outs of the world of side hustles and loves to share what she’s learned along the way. When she’s not working, you can find her relaxing at home in the Pacific Northwest with her two cats or enjoying a cup of coffee at her neighborhood cafe.
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