We have officially eliminated the "f-word" from our kids' vocabulary.
Okay, before anyone has a fit over this, let me first explain that, while it is a four-letter-word, we are talking about the term "fair."
Between 5 and 8 years of age, apparently, "fair" becomes an obsessive concept and Franz and I got fed up with hearing about things that weren't "fair." It is literally impossible to please little people once that concept is introduced. Plus, we decided that it is not healthy to set someone up with an expectation of exacting equality in everything. Life will not deliver on this!
So, this summer we did away with the word. I will admit that it was a little shocking the first time I heard one of the girls tell the other not to use "the f-word." This was not a label Franz and I used. They think they thought this term up themselves. I hesitate to correct them on it since then I would have to explain that there is this other word... Anyway, you get the point.
I have to tell you, it is much more pleasant around our house now that we've eliminated the arguments and discussions about things being "fair." It changed the atmosphere in a measurable way, and I would recommend adding this "f-word" to the list of banned language for any other parents of small people out there who are tired of dealing with the fall-out.
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1 comment:
Kyle and I both loved this post. Just so you know...since no one commented for a long time, I wanted you to know you should be keeping up the good work. :o)
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