with Jes, Founder, Empowered ABA

Words That Work

A plan for back talk, mean words, cursing and lying.

“I hate you.” Eye rolls. Potty words at the dinner table. A fib told straight to your face. These moments sting, and it's easy to react big. This guide helps you respond in a way that teaches — so your child learns how to disagree respectfully, and learns that telling the truth is the safest choice.

Get the Guide — $19

Instant access after purchase · Printable PDF

Not ready? Start with the free Do-Over Card.

“Shocking words are a skill gap, not a character flaw.”

What's inside

Why kids say shocking things — and what a big reaction teaches
Tone vs. message: hearing the need under the words
The do-over: a calm “try that again” that teaches the better way
Scripts for respectful disagreement your child can actually use
Why kids lie, and how to make the truth safer than hiding it
The picture story “My Words Can Work” and role-play games for calm times
A 14-day plan, trackers and a one-page fridge card

This guide is for you if…

  • Back talk, rudeness or mean words have become a daily thing
  • Your child has discovered cursing or potty words — and your reaction
  • Small lies are turning into a pattern
  • You want respect without fear and honesty without punishment

An honest approach

  • A big reaction often gives the words exactly what they were looking for. This guide shows you how to stay calm and teach in the moment — respect without fear, honesty without punishment.
  • This guide is educational and is not a substitute for individualized assessment, medical care, or therapy. If shocking words come with big changes in mood, sleep or friendships, please also talk with your pediatrician.

From families

You're not doing this alone.

Shared anonymously, with permission.

These resources feel like they were written for my actual family — not a textbook family. I keep coming back to them.
Mom of a 3-year-old
For the first time, someone explained the why behind my child's hardest moments instead of just handing me a chart. We are both less overwhelmed.
Parent of a 5-year-old
Small steps, real strategies, zero judgment. That combination is rare.
Foster dad of a 4-year-old

Respond calmly. Teach in the moment.

Better words for big feelings, respectful ways to disagree, and a home where telling the truth feels safe.

  • Respond to rude words calmly and teach in the moment
  • Give your child better words for big feelings
  • Make honesty easier than lying in your home
Get the Guide — $19

Instant access · $19

This guide is educational and is not a substitute for individualized assessment, medical care, or therapy.