We’ve all been there. You hear your kid use a four-letter word for the first time. Or belittle someone else. Do your kids understand the power of their words? In this episode of the All Pro Dad podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how often our kids use words without thinking about the consequences and what dads can do to shape kids’ language. Why This Matters The words we use shape relationships, build trust, and influence how kids see themselves and others. Key TakeawaysKids learn the power of language primarily by listening to the adults around them.Compliments and encouragement often have a longer-lasting impact than we realize.A child’s language often reveals deeper heart issues, influences, or emotional struggles.Parents should pay attention to the influences shaping their kids’ communication, including friends, music, movies, and online content.Practical Tips for Dads1. Model the language you want your kids to use. Praise your spouse, encourage others openly, and speak respectfully even when frustrated. 2. Practice “reverse gossip.” Speak highly of people behind their backs and let your kids hear it regularly. 3. Build gratitude into family rhythms. Use moments like dinner conversations to encourage thankfulness and affirmation. 4. Address hurtful language quickly. Teach kids the difference between joking around and attacking someone’s dignity. 5. Talk about the “why” behind words. Ask questions that uncover the heart posture behind the language your kids use. 6. Monitor influences carefully. Pay attention to the friends, media, music, and online content shaping your child’s communication habits. 7. Teach honesty as a core family value. Help kids understand that trust is built through consistent truthfulness. Important Episode Timestamps [00:00] How Can We Teach Our Kids the Power of Language? Ted frames a conversation about how the words dads model at home shape the way their kids speak for years to come. [00:49] The Words We Wish We Could Take Back: Honest Stories From the Guys BJ, Ted, and Bobby share cringe-worthy moments when their words caused unintended harm. [04:12] The Surprising Power of the Right Word at the Right Moment The dads reflect on times a well-timed compliment or word of affirmation made a lasting impact on someone. [06:01] Why Kids Already Know 42 Taboo Words by Age Five Ted shares unsettling research about how early children absorb harsh language. [07:23] How to Model the Power of Language at Home Every Day The dads discuss practical ways dads can demonstrate uplifting language in action. [10:17] Reverse Gossip, Doug Compliments, and Other Ways to Build People Up Bobby introduces the concept of reverse gossip, Ted shares the Doug Compliment tradition, and BJ explains why passing along praise is one of the most powerful things a dad can do. [13:11] How Careless Words at Home Become Bullying Behavior Everywhere Else Ted and BJ connect the dots between the language kids use with siblings at home and the bullying behavior that shows up at school. [14:48] Cursing, Tone, and What Really Tears People Down BJ offers a nuanced take on cursing, arguing that tone, posture, and dehumanizing language do far more damage than any particular word. [19:01] Why Lying Is the Most Damaging Language of All The dads explain why dishonesty is the most common way to destroys trust, and why creating a home where kids feel safe to tell the truth is one of the most important things a dad can do. [21:30] This Week's Pro Move: Ask your kids why they think some kids use curse words. Talk about where language comes from, how words affect others, and what kind of people your family wants to be through the way you speak. Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. All Pro Dad Resources Mark Merrill on CBS News: What To Do When Your Kid Starts Swearing Episode 3 – What Are The Words My Kids Long to Hear? Episode 8 – What Are 7 Things A Son Needs From His Dad? Episode 9 – What Are 7 Things A Daughter Needs From Her Dad? Episode 118 – What Do Dads Need to Stop Saying to Their Kids? We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info! Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com
