There’s something a bit surprising about hearing your young child exclaim, “What the heck is that?” As a parent, I tend to give my child a fair amount of freedom with what he watches online. When he stumbled upon the “History of Rap Part 6” featuring Justin Timberlake and Jimmy Fallon on YouTube, I felt a wave of nostalgia as a longtime JT fan, and I was thrilled that he enjoyed it. He quickly became obsessed with the video, but at first, he couldn’t quite catch or repeat the lyrics. I didn’t think much of it.
Soon enough, he began to memorize the lyrics, which I found adorable. Watching him grab his toy microphone and belt out “Fight for Your Right” by the Beastie Boys was too funny. Hearing him attempt to sing along to Snow’s “Informer” and R. Kelly’s “Ignition” had me in stitches. I would join in, often playing the role of Jimmy to his Justin. Since it was a late-night TV show, I assumed it was relatively appropriate for him. However, hearing him sing along to songs that might make other parents raise an eyebrow only confirmed a truth I had long suspected: I’m not too bothered by swearing.
I’ll admit, I find it genuinely amusing when little ones let loose with curse words. A friend’s daughter went through a phase where she would swear, and I couldn’t help but laugh every time. I always knew that if I had a child who did the same, I’d struggle to keep a straight face. I can envision myself reacting just like Cam from Modern Family, giggling uncontrollably at every inappropriate word my son might say. I know I wouldn’t be upset, especially if he used the words correctly.
A Personal History with Swearing
Now, I do have a bit of a history with swearing myself. I’ve been using colorful language since my pre-teens. My parents were strict about it, which made me more inclined to use such language when I got older. I remember the time I accidentally dropped an “oops” while on the phone and tried to deny it when my dad asked. While I’ve toned it down over the years, there are moments when saying “screw this” just feels necessary. I did try to moderate my language when my son began to understand words, but I recognize that some people might not appreciate a toddler shouting “damn.”
Personally, I believe in exposing my child to the real world, including the language that exists within it. He’s going to encounter all sorts of words when I’m not around, and I’d rather he not be shocked or think swearing is the end of the world—there are far worse things out there. I recall wanting a particular album as a kid but being denied because of its parental advisory label, even though I had been allowed to listen to albums that contained swearing.
The Case Against Sanitized Versions
I also have a strong dislike for sanitized versions of songs. I think it’s ridiculous when Kidz Bop alters lyrics that kids can easily hear in their original forms on the radio. Recently, I came across a study suggesting that people who swear may actually be more intelligent. I can’t help but agree; knowing when and how to use curse words can be quite an art form. Just look at how Samuel L. Jackson seamlessly incorporates “motherf***er” into his dialogue without skipping a beat—true skill!
A couple of months ago, I heard my son casually ask, “What the hell is that?” while rummaging through a drawer. At first, I questioned whether I’d actually heard him correctly. When he repeated the phrase a few weeks later, I decided not to reprimand him. Instead, I gently explained that some people might not appreciate that word and that it’s best reserved for when he’s with me. He seemed to get the message and hasn’t used it since, but honestly, I won’t make a big deal if he does again.
Our Little Secret
For now, I’ll keep letting him enjoy his favorite “History of Rap” video and probably chuckle a bit too much when he drops an inappropriate phrase. I don’t believe this is going to harm him in any way. He’ll learn that swearing has its time and place, and for now, that’s just between us. It’s our little secret—until this gets published.
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Summary
The author shares her thoughts on her toddler’s swearing, discussing how she isn’t overly concerned about it. She reflects on her upbringing, her own language habits, and the importance of allowing children to be exposed to real-world language. The piece emphasizes the idea that swearing can be contextually appropriate and that it is a skill that can be wielded carefully.