There's nothing worse than having a young child who curses like a sailor. While it's great your child is learning the art of verbal communication, there's nothing proper about a potty mouth. In most cases, we have nobody but ourselves to blame. Unless they're being exposed to foul language at school, among friends or on television, the source is likely you and your partner. So if your child's mouth has taken on a life of his own, the first person you should censor is yourself. Although you may live by the motto "do as I say, not as I do," it's not practical in this case. You lead by example and if your kids hear you cursing, there's a good chance they'll eventually repeat some of your colorful language. Child Psychiatrist Dr. Kevin Passer recommends that when you become angry or stressed, you remain calm. This teaches your children grace under pressure.
They'll also learn that it's not a necessity to swear in stressful situations. In the event your child does drop the "f" bomb or any of its equally-offensive cousins, send your little one directly to the bathroom. Explain that what they've uttered is "bathroom talk" and order him to stay in the bathroom until he's finished with the bathroom talk. Tell your child that those kinds of words aren't meant to go beyond the bathroom. Every time he swears, send him back to the bathroom. Eventually, he'll get the message. Explain the effects of the words on people. For younger children, offer alternatives. For example, if he is repeatedly dropping the "s" bomb, suggest other words that aren't as offensive. Teach your child to express frustration by talking about their feelings and not letting out expletives. There's no better way to help him clean up his act... and his mouth.