Kids Say the Meanest Things

You might be so focused on helping your child soothe her hurt feelings that you may not even see the day coming when she hurts yours. Inevitably, at some point, your child will utter those awful words - "I hate you," "You're the worst mommy ever" or something equally hurtful. And while it's tempting to retaliate with a snarky reply or simply tears, there are better ways to discourage kids from saying disrespectful things to you, your partner or other family members. First, assess why your child is saying such awful things. Younger children realize the power that words like "hate" or profanity have, and that's why they use them - for the drama and reaction they create. When you underreact to hearing those words, while still acknowledging their inappropriateness, then you'll hear them less and less. When they're younger, they still lack the communication skills to articulate frustration appropriately.