Let’s talk about a word we hear everywhere: “crazy.”
People say it to describe something surprising, something they don’t understand, or sometimes, someone else’s feelings.

But here’s what kids might not realize:
That word has a very painful history.

It was once used to label and mistreat people who thought, felt, or acted differently. And even now, it can make someone feel small, misunderstood, or unworthy.

In Day 4 of the Say This / Not That series, we’re helping kids (and grownups!) pause and rethink how we use “crazy," and what we can say instead that’s still expressive, but also kind.

Let’s dive in 👇

Calling something “crazy” may seem harmless, but it can reinforce the idea that being different is wrong.
It teaches kids to shut down what they don’t understand, rather than ask questions, show empathy, or explore what makes people unique.

What to say when your child asks “Why can’t I say ‘crazy’?”

“Because it can hurt people who think, feel, or act differently, and we want to be kind with our words, especially when we don’t understand something.”

 

A Script for Parents/Caregivers:

“When you say ‘That’s crazy,’ it might make someone feel like their feelings or ideas aren’t valid. Instead, let’s try words like:

• ‘That’s different!’

• ‘Wow! That’s wild!’
  These words still show how you feel, without hurting anyone.”

What to look for:

 

• Is your child using “crazy” to describe emotions, people, or experiences they don’t understand?

• Are they picking up this word from shows, social media, or other kids?

 

Ask:

“Have you ever been told you were weird or ‘too much’?”
“What do you think someone might feel when they’re called ‘crazy’?”

Give space for honest conversations about feelings, difference, and inclusion.

 

 

Affirmations & Activity:

Say these together:

• “Different is beautiful.”

• “I can be curious without being unkind.”

• “I don’t have to understand something to respect it.”

Try this:
Ask your child to list 3 things that felt surprising or unfamiliar recently. Then ask how they responded and whether there might be kinder ways to respond next time.

If this triggers YOU:

If you were ever called “crazy” for being emotional, imaginative, or simply yourself, this might bring stuff up.

You can share this with your child. Stories are powerful, especially personal ones.

“When I was younger, people didn’t always understand me and they called me names. That hurt. I want to help you use words that make people feel seen, not small.”

Healing is possible, especially when we raise the next generation with more compassion than we received.

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Together, we’re growing kids who express themselves with empathy and curiosity. 

With heart,
Gahmya
Evolved Kid | Big hearts. Big thoughts. Bright futures.

 

 

Resources to support today's message:

• Psychology Today – Why Words Can Hurt

• Psychology Today- The Psychological Power of Words

• Harvard University – Brain Architecture

• Stanford Study – How Children Learn Words

• University of Washington DO-IT – “Ableism in Everyday Language”
• National Center on Disability and Journalism – “Disability Language Style Guide”