How to Handle Swearing in Your Household

Swearing has become more common in today’s culture.

Key Points

• If your child swears, stay calm. Kids often repeat words without understanding their meaning. Instead of yelling, ask them if they know what the word means.
• Clearly establish the expectations in your own household and explain to your children why certain words won’t be accepted – even if they are in other households.
• Instead of a swear jar, try a ‘positive words jar’. This shifts the focus to encouraging good behaviour rather than just punishing bad words.
• Some may wonder, “What’s wrong with swearing?” While every family is different – words have power – and The Bible warns us constantly to be careful with the words we use.

Be aware of your own language

Children learn by example. If you don’t want them to swear, it’s important to be a good role model. 

“We have to help control our kids’ minds, and it starts with us. Reflect upon us. Are we being good role models?”

If you slip up and say something you shouldn’t, acknowledge it. 

“Apologise. If you’re using that language, say, ‘Mommy or Daddy shouldn’t have used that. Please forgive me.’”

Respond, don’t react

If your child swears, stay calm. Kids often repeat words without understanding their meaning. Instead of yelling, ask them if they know what the word means.

This can help them understand why certain words are not appropriate.

Set clear expectations

Make sure your child knows your household rules.

“We can teach our kids to say, ‘This is what we do in our household. What happens in your friend’s house? You don’t have to repeat it.’”

When kids understand the expectations, they are more likely to follow them.

Encourage positive language

Instead of a swear jar, try a ‘positive words jar’. When your child says something kind or thoughtful, add money or a small reward.

“When you hear them doing something kind or saying something positive, put some money in there so they can see a reward for using good language.”

This shifts the focus to encouraging good behaviour rather than just punishing bad words.

Why does it matter?

Some may wonder, “What’s wrong with swearing?” While every family is different, words have power.

“The Bible says, ‘Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but only what is good for edification.’”

Choosing words carefully can help build others up rather than tearing them down.

Final thoughts

The words we use matter.

Creating a positive language environment at home can help kids develop good habits that last a lifetime. As Colossians says, “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt.”

Article supplied with thanks to Sonshine & Kourtney Smith.

Feature image: CanvaPro