How To Talk To Your Kids About Swearing

Author: Marguerite Willett

How to talk to your kids about swearing

As a parent you try to shield your child from all of the bad things in the world. However, with today's television programs and popular music, it is nearly impossible to keep them from hearing a swear word. Some parents feel hopeless when it comes to ensuring their little ones do not hear and repeat these words, but by taking the proper precautionary steps, you can help your child to avoid foul language. 

The first thing you need to do is set a good example yourself. A child is most likely to mimic older family members, so  both parents and older siblings should eliminate the poor language. If your child comes into contact with a swear word by another means, explain to them in a calm manner that polite people do not use these words.

Parent resource website, Baby Center, says that it is important to keep a poker face when a bad word is said in front of the child as well if the child repeats the world. This is because if you get angry or laugh, you may encourage him to repeat the word again and in front of others in order to get attention.

Keeping a straight face and firmly explaining that this is a word that people should not say is the best way to nip it in the bud, Care.com explains. The source says that parents should consider first asking their child if they know the meaning of the word and then basing the conversation around the answer. You may then want to suggest alternative words that can be used in a similar context.

Finally, if cursing becomes a reoccurring issue, do not be afraid to set firm consequences. The sooner the child learns that there are consequences for using the words, the less of a problem it will become.

In Brief

  • As a parent you try to shield your child from all of the bad things in the world.
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