“No! I don’t want to!” How many times have dads heard something like this? Is it defiance, or something else? Kids talking back is part of growing up. Dads need to know how to react when their children get mouthy. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about keeping our cool when this happens in our homes.

Why This Matters

There are different kinds of “talking back,” and handling them all the same could lead to friction in your relationship with your kids. 

Key Takeaways

• Talking back, or being “mouthy,” is developmentally normal. 
• Recognize that there are always reasons kids talk back. 

Practical Tools for Dads

When your kids get mouthy, try these techniques to better understand their behavior:

1. Stay calm. 

2. Acknowledge their feelings. 

3. Treat them with respect. 

4. Remind them of the parent/child dynamic

5. Focus on the message. 

Important Episode Timestamps
00:00 – 00:55 | Introduction & Big Question of the Week

00:55 – 03:13 | Personal Stories: Were You a Mouthy Kid?

03:13 – 05:10 | Why Back Talk Pushes Our Buttons

05:10 – 07:07 | Defiant vs. Dismissive: What Kind of Back Talk Is It?

07:07 – 09:50 | Reacting vs. Responding: Fear-Based Parenting Doesn't Last

09:50 – 13:36 | The Power of Curiosity: What’s Really Going On?

13:36 – 15:15 | The Role of Imitation in Behavior

15:15 – 17:58 | Practical Tools to Diffuse the Moment

17:58 – 22:00 | Teach, Don’t Just Stop the Behavior

22:00 – 28:00 | Pro Move of the Week:  Remember, mouthy kids are normal kids. They just need guidance. 

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.

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Ted Lowe on LinkedIn

Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn

BJ Foster on LinkedIn

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