Kids Cussing

Cussing Is a Growing Trend

It seems that more and more kids are spicing up their daily language with words that would make some sailors blush. They are inundated with songs, television programming and video games that make use of profane language on a regular basis.

For young children, parents are often the biggest influence on whether or not the child cusses. But as they get older, it can become a problem when friends’ attitudes and youth culture become a bigger sway on behavior. Though parents may have strict rules against cussing at home, theses rules may not influence kids when they aren't supervised.

Some people may feel that cussing is something their children can do that they feel “safe” about. After all, if swearing is the worst thing little Sammy does in this age of sex, drugs and alcohol, parents may be relieved and tolerate the behavior.

Unfortunately, that attitude leads to a culture of profanity. As one 21-year old told the Washington Post, "It’s part of our lexicon".

Stop Kids Cussing

The best way to keep kids from cussing is to stop the behavior before it becomes a problem. Often, this begins at home with the parents, siblings, grandparents and possible babysitter. A child who does not hear curse words cannot repeat them (unless mispronouncing an acceptable word). If you have the habit of cussing, make a conscious effort to modify the behavior. Tape notes around your home or even start a curse jar that you must fill when you cuss.

Regardless of how good you are at home about cussing, your youngster is bound to hear a curse word at some point. Whether you slipped up or they overheard a conversation in the store, they will repeat the word. Here are some suggestions for dealing with toddlers and preschoolers who cuss:

• For a child just learning to talk, try ignoring the word. A reaction of any kind, good or bad, will make him realize it gets him attention and may cause the word to be repeated.
• Elementary students who cuss may hear it on the playground or catch it from the media. They will often “test” their parents by saying the word repeatedly. Explain to your child why the word is not acceptable and offer him or her alternatives for venting frustration.
• Children who continually defy your wishes regarding cussing may need further discipline. A behavior chart can help them see progress.
• Preteens and teenagers may respond well to a logical argument that fits into their lifestyle. Explain how foul language can affect their part-time job offers, how teachers perceive them and their overall scholastic performance. Swearing in front of friends or in boy/girlfriends' homes may cause the other parents to quit letting the child come over or stop them from dating. By making it about their own lives instead of adult social etiquette and graces, you will have an easier time getting through to them.
• Teens who use profanity on a regular basis may need additional discipline. Speak to an expert, like a school counselor or teacher.

Do not be afraid to ask your friends and family for parenting advice regarding swearing. Most parents have had to deal with it at one time or another and can offer helpful advice for your particular situation.

Borderline Cussing

Most people think of swearing as those seven words you can never say on t.v. (warning: link contains profanity), as popularized by the famous George Carlin bit. But what about other words which are often offensive but have become more acceptable?

These borderline words are often insults or poor language, like crap and stupid. However, just because they are more tolerable by the general public used does not mean they are a big improvement on kids cussing.

In these cases, it can help to address a particular issue, such as teasing. Focusing on reading, literacy and positive modeling can increase a child’s vocabulary. Instead of using borderline swear words, offer a child alternative ways to help him/herself express his or her thoughts and feelings.

While kids cussing may seem to be a low priority in terms of behavior problems, it should still be addressed. If you feel that cussing does not have a detrimental effect upon other people and yourself, the first tip from the Cuss Control Academy offers several sound reasons for not cussing.