Parents often believe that they know their children better than they even know themselves. After all, they’ve been by their side since before their child took their first breath. But just because Mom and Dad have spent the most time with their little one doesn’t mean that they actually know what’s going on inside their head.
Parents have been opening up on Quora about heartbreaking secrets they’ve learned about their children, so we’ve gathered their most shocking stories below. From hiding mental health issues to engaging in dangerous activities, many of these replies detail a parent’s worst nightmare come true. But they’re good reminders to always check in with your kids and never assume that you know everything about them.