Teaching Kids to Think Before They Speak

What Does “Think Before You Speak” Mean?

Here is the answer:

● Understanding Impact:

Words have the power to make or break connections. So yes, teaching kids this idea during their foundation years builds awareness of their impact on others.

● Learning Empathy:

When children pause to think, they consider how their words may affect someone else’s feelings.

● Building Thoughtfulness:

It’s not about suppressing their thoughts but guiding them to express those thoughts kindly and appropriately.

How to Teach Your Child to Think Before Speaking?

So, here is how to go about ensuring the speak protocol in children:

1. Introduce the THINK Acronym:

● Is it True?

● Is it Helpful?

● Is it Inspiring?

● Is it Necessary?

● Is it Kind? This is a very simple tool that can serve as a quick mental checklist before saying something.

2. Role-Playing Games:

● Act out scenarios where words could hurt or help and discuss the outcomes.

● Example: Pretend someone is struggling with a task and explore both unkind and encouraging responses.

3. Model the Behaviour:

● Kids learn by imitation. Pause a little. Get those thoughts together before you start speaking.

● Acknowledge moments when you paused to consider your words.

4. Encourage Self-Reflection:

● After you have had a conversation, consider asking your child - “How do you think your words made me feel?”

● Gently point out when their words may have been unkind and discuss alternative phrases they could use.

5. Praise Thoughtfulness:

● Celebrate when your child takes a moment to think before speaking.

● Make use of phrases. For instance - “Well, that was such a great job you paused before speaking!”

6. Teach About Emotions:

● Help children identify their feelings and how they influence what they say.

● Practice calming techniques like deep breathing before responding during heated moments.