There are many reasons why what we say to our children is especially important.
Firstly, you are your child’s main influence. The things that you are saying in the home, to them and around them are the things that they are going to grow up to say. Are the words and phrases you use each day things that you want your children to say too? If not is it time to change?
Secondly, your child looks up to you. Your approval or disapproval means a lot to them and your words could hurt your child even if you don’t mean them too. I am sure that you don’t want them carrying those negative words with them for the rest of their lives.
Using the right language when disciplining your child
I am perfectly imperfect and find that when disciplining my children, I must make the biggest effort to not say the wrong things. Of course, we all make mistakes and sometimes, in the heat of the moment, my harsh words can leave my mouth before I have had time to think. You know the feeling, right?
Having worked in education for a good number of years I have learnt that the term ‘naughty’ or ‘bad’ is something that we would not use in the classroom. Instead, I focus on explaining to the child that their behaviour was inappropriate or not acceptable. That behaviour has a story behind it and that story will normally tend to make you want to cry rather than be angry.
Talk to your child about why they think they have done something that was not a good choice. Having an awareness of their feelings is the first step to learning how to control them.
Using positive words and phrases can empower your child
It is important that you use positive words and phrases that are going to build up and empower your child throughout their life.
The following is a great image to help us to re-word some of the things we can say.
