by Andy Kendall

Created on: May 25, 2008

At around the age of 2-3, an average child will be adding to their vocabulary daily, not weekly. They will soak up words like a sponge from all manner of sources parents/carers, computer games, television, radio and even your mobile phone ring tone. If you have anything around that you don't wish you're child to repeat, keep it safe and out of earshot.

At this age, children will often repeat what they have heard without understanding the meaning of the words spoken, regardless of the consequences of what they have just said. To escape the possible embarrassment of any unpleasant words being spoken in public, you must tackle the issue with a firm technique. First explain to child that the word they have spoken is regarded as rude' and will make other people sad', use facial expressions and strong tone of voice from yourself to accentuate the emotions involved as children of this age use more facial expressions and tones to associate emotions (most children will get some kind of thrill' from your reactions if they are too over the top'). The biggest tip is not to over react in any way as this enforces a negative reaction that the child will impress upon, and will only generate further occurrences. The best method to use is the those are not nice words, if you use those words, I won't talk to you' method. This enforces onto the child that using bad language decreases interaction, rather than gives an increase from going over the top.

There will be a period when they will test you, be in no doubts. Be prepared for the torrent of every rude word' that they have picked up since being able to speak as long a you hold your ground and provide the negative described earlier, this will pass. If you find it appropriate, you can find words that replace the rude' versions, stupid' can be replaced by silly', damn it' can be replaced by drat' and so on it really depends on what is appropriate in your individual household.

In extreme cases, the time out; method can be used. Take the child away from what they were doing and place them in a designated place (the bottom step is often used in these cases) Most importantly, do not refer to the location as the naughty place', use the time out place' as a name, as this is less negative. As long as the child persists in using bad language they will remain in time out'. As another tip, reinforce the fact that they have come away from the time out area with a hug or similar to reinforce that fact that if they do not use bad language, they will get a hug/kiss and a cuddle. Over time, as long as you maintain the right' reaction to bad language, you will conquer it and avoid any unnecessary embarrassment in the supermarket or high street.

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