Children's Behaviour

How do I stop my child from using foul language?

Jeel al-Khilafah

The question

My son is about four years old, and he repeatedly uses foul words (some of which he doesn't even know the meaning of). He uses them with young and old alike. I tried threatening and hitting and punishment (like bringing chili pepper) and his behaviour did not improve.

I want your advice, may Allah reward you with good. What steps do I take when I hear the word (what do I say, and how do I act immediately)? What are alternatives to punishment to correct the behaviour?

Our answer

May Allah preserve you. I do not advise punishment but dialogue.

Show him that you are sad at his unfitting words, and repeat in his hearing: this doesn't befit a hero. Reward him when he holds to that.

Keep him away from the environment where it spreads.

Enroll him in a Qur'an school.

May Allah delight your eyes with him as an imam of the God-fearing.

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