For Parents of Little Ones

By age four, children may already know more than a thousand words! How can we make sure that kind words are a solid part of their vocabulary? Here are a few ideas from fellow parents and teachers:

“I remind my children which words are kind and which are not. Sometimes I ask, ‘Is that a kind word?’ and when they answer, ‘No’ (little kids are very honest), we come up with a kind replacement word.” —Betsy J.

“Kids learn best by example and experience. If you speak kindly to your kids and the people you interact with, your kids will learn to do the same. When a situation arises where they need correction, do it calmly and with love.” —Brittany B.

“I chose our preschool class song to be ‘Kindness Begins with Me’ (Children’s Songbook, 145). This song says it all!” —Ann E.

“I find that when kids use mean words it’s often because they don’t know what they should say instead. We practice acting out scenarios about what they should say in different situations. Then, when a conflict arises, I help them rephrase what they are trying to say with the kind words we practiced.” —Corrinn M.

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