Words Matter

Our family recently added a day trip to Disney World to our Florida holiday this year.   It was a wonderful day filled with many magical moments for both our children.  It was busy at the park given it was the Christmas school break for kids across Canada and the U.S. 

I understand how a parent could be on edge trying to keep track of their children (as well as their wallets!) in all the chaos that goes with a trip to  Dinsey World.  I must admit that my nerves were frazzled after 6 hours (we stayed 12 hours).  But I think we need to be careful about how we that frustration is verbalized to our children.  I overheard one mother loudly berating her young children for “getting themselves lost” and causing her unnecessary worry.   While we all have to abide by family rules to make a trip to a crowded place enjoyable, ultimately it is our responsibility as a parent to keep track of young children.  And, we certainly have to let our children know when they are doing something that can cause them harm (wandering away from us to touch Pooh Bear) there is a respectful way to address the problem.  The words we use with our children teaches them what words to use with others.  Choose yours wisely – words matter.

Just ask Barack Obama … http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=7ffwY74XbS4&feature=related