POPSUGAR

Wait, What?! 5 Things All Kids Say

Jun 11 2014 - 3:00am

They may not be the most wholesome quotes ever, but we partnered with Honey Maid [1] to celebrate a shared experience: kids growing up too fast.

No matter the age of your child, you've probably discovered she has a few key phrases. Kids really do say the cutest things — but you might not have expected to hear them over and over and over again. Most tots starts tossing out tag lines after the age of 2, which makes how you talk to your child [2] so important in encouraging language development — and ensuring she doesn't pick up any unwanted words. Check out these five things all kids eventually say and how to deal with the phrases smoothly.

Source: Shutterstock [3]

MINE!

OK — you knew this one was coming, but what you might not have expected is the absolute amount of determination your child will have alongside the little word. Be prepared for dealing with serious meltdowns by calmly talking with your child about how something might not necessarily be hers — especially if it's time to share. Avoid getting in a conversation about the item or trying to reason with your toddler. Offer a closing retort such as "sorry" and remove the item.

Source: Giphy.com [4]

I Want It Now!

Yes, another one that you knew was coming but didn't expect with such passion. Once your little one has a taste of something yummy or enjoyed a fun experience, his inner budding ego kicks in and questions why he can't have it all right now. Instead of giving in when tantrums happen, stand your ground. It's OK to say no and move on — even when you get flashed the perfected sad face.

Source: Giphy.com [5]

Are We There Yet?

A phrase easily interchanged with, "Can we go home now?" is one of the most grating short sentences your child may say — especially when stuck in the car. As much as you think tossing back an "almost" might help, it's best to be honest with your child and let him know how long it will be until you reach your destination. Turn it into a counting game, which helps the time go by quicker. And it's always a good idea to be prepared with kid-happy car helpers [6].

Source: Giphy.com [7]

Swear Words (of All Kinds)

Even if you carefully edit your language when around your toddler, at some point or another she's going to try out a bad word — and it will probably happen at a moment that's totally embarrassing. Don't freak out! Every child experiments with the power of words at some point. Because she doesn't understand the meaning of the word, just ignore it. If your child gets a snicker (or even a reprimand), the attention may encourage her to try the word out again.

Source: Giphy.com [8]

I Love You!

Just about the best thing you'll ever hear is the very first, "I love you" from your little one. Your heart melts and you hold it with you forever. But avoid prompting the phrase so the meaning loses its value. Make sure to supplement with lots of hugs and positive attention, showing your tot how much you appreciate him without any words necessary.

Source: Giphy.com [9]


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https://www.popsugar.com/family/Things-All-Kids-Say-34683878