The Power of “F” Words and your Kids

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The Power of “F” Words and your kids

I thought I would have a little fun with that title. I figured it would get some attention. That proves one of my points: The power of words.

Around our house, we throw words around non stop. Some encourage; some give life, and unfortunately, others tear down. Sometimes, we use them to make a drastic point.

This week I wanted to share a few words that are empowering and life-giving in our home.

Fun: As a father of an 11-year-old princess and a 9-year-old master builder, creativity, adventure, and “fun” is common. I, however as a Dad, have to remind myself to let go of responsibilities to roll in the fun they’ve created. Working from my private studio allows me the chance to see daily events unfold in real time. I remind myself often that this is the last year they will be this age. I need to stop, get on their level, and serve them in their own individual language. Are we looking for ways to have fun or are we spending most of the time saying no and what not to do? I’d love to go to bed knowing I empowered and verbally rewarded my children more than saying no.

Faith: This one is paramount. God is the head of this house. Not me. It has structured our lives to know our days, weeks, months, and years are a gift. Days at the beach. Days at Disneyland. Mornings sitting around the breakfast table talking about what we are thankful for. All these things and more are gifts.

Friday: The word Friday is a powerful one around our house as it signals “Family Night.” We hunker down for dinner and a movie and chill time. The kids look forward to this night the whole week.

Funny: Raising kids is hands down one of the most challenging things Chantel and I have ever done. We say how glad we are to have each other when the days are tough. The only way I know to keep it light is to be funny. I either do my famous chicken dance in the kitchen or some embarrassing performance that makes the kids run.

Fart: That word right there might be one of the most powerful words ever. Say it anywhere and your kids will smile. If we are having a bad day and are expected to take a picture that will last a lifetime, just say the word and everyone smiles. It works every time.

Listen, the most powerful muscle in the human body is the tongue. It has the power to give life or take it away. My personal goal is to be slow to speak, quick to listen, and careful to craft what I’m about to say.

How have you seen the power of words have a positive and negative influence with your kids? Please leave a comment below and share this post with others!