Language is a powerful thing. It is a vital part of human interactions, as people use words to share ideas, thoughts, and feelings with others, according to Very Well Family. Kids are still learning the true definitions of words. They may try out different words to gauge your response and determine whether they have used them correctly.
As kids get older, they may choose to use particular words, such as swear words, to get a reaction from you or to fit in socially with their peers. Children would attempt inappropriate words in certain social situations due to curiosity. The key for parents is to teach kids that words have power and meaning and can be offensive and hurtful.
Dr. Jennie David of the pediatric psychology and neuropsychology at Nationwide Children's Hospital advises helping kids choose the words that communicate what they are attempting to share. Parents usually conclude they are experimenting with swear words and thus encourage them to use respectful language.
Why do many children swear words?
Dr. David said there are several reasons why younger kids and school-aged kids may swear, including imitating other peers, trying out a new language, and coping with what they see on television or the internet. They also try to understand why a particular word causes a reaction without necessarily understanding what it truly means.
She also added that children usually observe what their other siblings do and imitate it without knowing what it means. Those who use swear words are normative as they still develop and experience how nuanced language can be. Children use profanity as they have heard others do the same regardless of where they heard the words being used. As often said, children are like sponges and often listen. Dr. David advises that parents remain calm and prevent overreacting or making a big deal of what they hear.
Kids sometimes swear out of anger or frustration. Using inappropriate words helps children name their emotions. However, to avoid cursing, parents can encourage them to use other words that are not offensive. Parents should help kids calm down from strong emotions such as anger. Teach your kids to take deep breaths or open up about their difficult feelings, per Raising Children.
Explaining bad words to young ones
Christi Garner, a licensed marriage and family therapist, suggests parents encourage children to discuss that every family is different; thus, they have their respective rules, which may not necessarily be the same. Some families allow children to use particular words, which is prohibited in school.
Some kids may be hearing a variety of language on the playground; thus, it is vital for parents to carefully explain words to children, especially the consequence of using explicit words. Remind children to be mindful when using certain words.
Garner also recommends teaching kids to organize their thoughts about other people's rules, and parents should treat such moments as a great opportunity to learn what those thoughts are, Fatherly says.
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