Question
I’ve noticed lately that when my 5yo son gets super excited he starts saying bad words. It’s super new and super random but the other day he even said “I’m so f**king excited”.
He’s not doing it to get a laugh, I can tell he’s super over excited and he can’t control himself. With that being said, me muero de la vergüenza (I die of embarrassment) and I don’t want him talking like that. Whatttttt do I do?!
answer
First thing is that all the adults around him have to mind their language. Turns out, your son is listening and learning since he is using the phrase appropriately...that's why the first thing to do to avoid this is the adults need to mind their language.
Second, make sure that the adults around him do not laugh when he uses it. This one is hard but important. Children under 6 with their constant need to finish loving circles of connection will repeat anything that brings joy to an adult.
Finally in the moment, gently and very calmly put your hand on his shoulder and say "buddy, the F word you used is not polite, try again and just say I'm excited" - quick and simple; no more than this sentence. You will repeat and remind for a while until the habit passes.