Socializing with other young people has finally taught the girls a few words that I’m not crazy about. I won’t go into profanities, but just words like hate and phrases like: I’m not your friend anymore, that sucks, and shut up are just a few on the list. I am pretty good at monitoring my own speech in front of the girls; I don’t want them to get it from me. However, I also know that this is just an inevitable stage in the whole scheme of growing up.
I’ve tried two basic techniques to stop the swearing. The first was punishment. This is very effective with one of my daughters, but not so much with the other. Last time Vannah let one slip, I made sure to take the Wii and television away. I haven’t had a problem with potty mouth ever since. While this is effective with one child, it doesn’t work that well with Mallory. With Mallory, if I completely ignore her (no attention whatsoever) she stops and realizes why she’s not turning my head.
In addition, I’ve been monitoring what they see on TV a little more closely (could they have figured out the cable box behind my back?) I also talk to them about using appropriate words to describe your feelings, no matter how angry or sad you happen to be at that very moment. Finally, I made sure to let them know that those types of words are harsh and can hurt the feelings of those around; there are much more gentle choices available to articulate their thoughts.
How do you deal with potty mouth? In what ways do you try and prevent it? How do you stop this negative social influence?
