How to Stop Children From Using Bad Language

All children experiment with bad language. They may hear it from you or a sibling, on television or even at the grocery store. Children learn language by listening and repeating, and they repeat not only the good, but the bad. Children need to learn that bad language is unacceptable and being a good example for your child is the best way to start.

Instructions

1. Stop using bad language. It was okay to curse at the television a couple of years ago, but those days are long gone. Your children are listening to you and repeating you, even if they don't do it in front of you.

2. Be an example. No one is perfect, so when you do curse, apologize and quickly substitute an appropriate word.

3. Ignore your children when they use a random curse word. They are seeking your attention, and if they don't get it, chances are they will try to get your attention in a different way.

4. Reward your child when they substitute an appropriate word for a curse word. This will encourage them to seek your attention in a positive way.

5. Explain why using bad language is unacceptable in your home. Children hear bad language in many different ways and may be confused about what is appropriate and what is inappropriate.

6. State the consequences for continually using bad language and be consistent with your punishment.

Tips & Warnings

• Make up funny phrases to use in place of curse words and start using them yourself. Your children will start using them instead of curse words.

• Make a "Swear Jar" and put it in the kitchen or living room. When anyone uses a curse word, they have to put a dollar in the jar. You can even modify this game to get a dollar back every time you or your child refrains from using a curse word.