Words Matter: Verbal Abuse of Children
About Words Matter
Words Matter is a charity on a mission to improve children’s mental and physical health by ending verbal abuse by adults.
As parents, carers and people who work with children, we all get overloaded sometimes. And at times like this we need support so we can continue to have good relationships with the children in our lives. By working together to improve childhood, we all benefit – now and for years to come.
Working in partnership with experts, decision makers, non-profit and other organisations, Words Matter focuses on three areas:
- Research
- Awareness
- Collaboration
For further information visit the Words Matter site here: Words Matter Website
What is verbal abuse?
Verbal abuse means using negative words and language that cause harm.
It may take the form of blaming, insulting, belittling, intimidating, demeaning, disrespecting, scolding, frightening, ridiculing, criticising, name-calling or threatening a child.
It’s not just about shouting and screaming. Verbal abuse can also be quiet, insidious and subtle. Tone, volume and facial expression all play a part.
It affects two in five children – that’s over 5 million children experiencing verbal abuse in the UK today, and the number is rising.
Free E-Learning Course: Words Matter: How to Communicate with Children so they Thrive
Words shape children’s lives more than we realise. 2 in 5 children experience verbal abuse by adults in their lives, affecting their confidence, self-esteem, mental health, and development.
Words Matter have created their first free online course, for parents and carers, teachers, and any adults around children, designed to help build children up, not knock them down. Across three weeks, you’ll find out the science of child development and language, recognise verbal abuse in daily life, and gain practical techniques for home, school, and in a variety of interactions with children.
Available on FutureLearn.com – just search ‘Words Matter’.
Talking to children – free resource
Words Matter have put together free simple resources. There are specific resources for parents and carers, teachers, and adults in general, all designed to help build children up, not knock them down. This includes a guide for adults who have experienced childhood verbal abuse themselves.
Visit the page here to access the resources: Talking to children – Words Matter