- 1). Post class rules and discuss them at the beginning of the year. Explain that using profanity at school is against the rules and has consequences. You don't even need a specific, "Don't use profanity" rule. A simple "Respect others" rule would suffice. Post consequences for not following class or school rules. Examples of consequences might be: first offense --- warning; second offense --- note home; third offense --- detention; fourth offense --- visit the office/conference with the principal.
- 2). Deal with the problem immediately. Ignoring the use of profanity is a passive means of allowing it to continue. Issuing consequences at a later time disconnects the consequence from the action. If you deal with profanity right away, students can better connect your reaction to their behavior.
- 3). Say to the student, "The word that you used was an example of profanity. That is not acceptable at school." Remain calm as you explain this to the student.
- 4). Enact your consequences once you have explained what the offense was. When students know exactly what to expect when they use profanity, they have definable boundaries that provide guidance and even comfort.
- 5). Counsel a student who repeatedly uses profanity. Explore underlying causes for anger and frustration. Teach healthy methods of coping with anger and frustration such as writing, talking to a trusted adult, going for a walk or engaging in some other exercise.
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