· Don't laugh, even if you think it is funny.
For a young child, the word 'poop' is inherently funny, and parents are often amused at the child's amusement. But often children use these words to get attention. Ignore it, and it will likely stop. And don't overreact, either. If you are upset and show it, your child has accomplished what he set out to do. If it is the first time, your child has just found a reason to repeat it.
· Don't imply that sexuality is disgusting.
Instead of forbidding any sex talk or sexual words, say that there is a time and a place for it. You might ask your child if he knows what the word means and answer any questions your child is asking, but don't feel pressured to do so immediately if you are in a public place. Don't forget to go back to the question when you are both in a comfortable place. Give your explanation matter of factly and follow it by saying something like, 'We don't use those words in this house."
· Make it clear that certain words are offensive to most people, and it is impolite to repeat them. Depending on the child's age, you might want to say that it upsets Grandma to hear those words or that people don't respect people who swear all the time.
· Set up some rules about which words are OK to say and which are not. Suggest some alternatives, from the usual 'darn' and 'heck' to the more unusual 'fiddlesticks' or 'chucklehead.' Child development experts recommend using the proper clinical names of the sex organs and bodily excretions since children who are comfortable with those terms are less likely to become fascinated with the alternatives. Don't forget to include a rule about where the words are OK, too. What may be OK in the playroom may not be OK at the dinner table. Similarly, some words that may be OK to say to a sibling would be inappropriate to say to a grandparent or neighbor.
· Limit your child's exposure to explicit language.
Let young children know which TV shows they can and cannot watch, and stick to it. As your children grow, try to familiarize yourself with what they are listening to, watching and reading. That way you can talk to them and express your feelings while keeping the lines of communication open, as well as becoming aware of the world they are living in.
· Teach your child alternative ways of expressing anger and displeasure.
Help her to express herself and articulate her feelings, rather than just screaming an obscenity.
· Do not use any language yourself that you do not want to hear your children say.
If you find yourself so angry that it slips out, apologize to your child, just as you would expect him to apologize to you or someone else.
· If the use of foul language persists, invoke your usual discipline method
- time-out, revoking privileges, etc. If it still persists, or is accompanied by aggressive behavior or an especially intense interest in sex, consider seeking professional help.
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