A few years back, my partner, Jake, made a bold commitment to our children: whenever either of us swore, we’d drop a quarter into the “Swear Jar.” The plan was that once it was full, the kids would get to keep the cash. Honestly, I was taken aback. So, I decided to front-load my contributions by tossing in a $10 bill, explaining that I was just paying for the summer ahead. The kids, blissfully unaware of money’s true value, thought I’d handed over a fortune.
Meanwhile, Jake took the challenge more seriously, and before long, we were nearly broke due to his relentless cursing. Eventually, after our kids cashed in, we scrapped the jar system and reverted to our old ways. Here are five reasons why:
- Adult Privileges
Let’s face it: growing up comes with its share of disappointments, but one perk is the freedom to express myself however I please—swearing included. It’s liberating to communicate my feelings without worrying about consequences. - They’re Still Kids
I understand the need to model good behavior. That’s why I still wear pants to school drop-off, even if I don’t have to. Yet, my kids aren’t adults yet, and until then, it’s “do as I say, not as I do.” They can’t swear, drive, or enjoy a cocktail, and honestly, I like giving them something to aspire to. - Childhood Language is Confusing
In our household, we often find ourselves using euphemisms and baby talk—making a tinkle, doing a doodie, etc.—and it can get ridiculous. Sometimes, a strategic curse word cuts through the clutter. For instance, when my son threw a tantrum, I told him plainly: “Stop acting like a little brat.” That got his attention. - Parenting is a Wild Ride
Every day brings its share of bewildering moments. Whether I’m stepping on a Lego or trying to comprehend third-grade math, I need to express my frustration honestly. Sometimes, I just need everyone to calm down so I can think straight. - I’ve Sacrificed Enough
Motherhood comes with a laundry list of sacrifices: sleep, sanity, and my love for music, to name a few. Why should I also have to change the way I communicate? Absolutely not!
So, if you’ve managed to navigate parenting without unleashing a single curse word, kudos to you. Just remind your little ones to cover their ears if they come to visit—because they might hear some real talk!
For more insights on family planning and home insemination, check out our other posts, like this one on intracervical insemination. Additionally, Make a Mom offers valuable resources for couples on their fertility journey. And for those considering fertility treatments, March of Dimes is a fantastic resource.
Summary:
Cursing in front of kids can be a controversial topic, but for me, it’s about adult freedom, maintaining a sense of humor amidst the chaos of parenting, and expressing genuine frustration. While I strive to model good behavior, I also embrace my right to communicate authentically.