That's being smart and a good father and husband! Cops are on edge every time they approach a vehicle. It's always best to be upfront with them like you said. Much better chances of a good experience.

I've been pulled over for a taillight out on the way home from the range before. I was lazy and didn't lock my shotgun up, it was just laying on the back seat (unloaded) which is a no no in CA. When he came up to the window he didn't even notice it because I had a bunch of crap back there and it was getting dark. I told him about it immediately and that I didn't lock it because my house is only a few miles from the range. He said he appreciated me telling him, he told me to get a new bulb for my taillight and he left. As long as you're not dressed like a gang member, they are almost always pretty cool. I figure they have enough people constantly lying to them, when someone is honest, it's probably a breath of fresh air.