Why We Don’t Say “Stupid”
May 31, 2025
Language shapes so much of who we are and what we do. Have you ever found yourself repeating something you've been saying for ages only to ask yourself, "Wait? Why do I say that? I don't agree with that at all!" If so, this pause and reflection is actually a form of emotional intelligence.
Through the Evolved Teacher platform, and Evolved Kid learning sessions (once called kidyouniversity), we like to equip our children with this emotional literacy and vocabulary early on. One way to do that is to help them to be aware and selective of their words. This is not a "You must speak like this space." But, it is a space to call our children, and ourselves in, and say, "when we say these things, this is how they can be received. Is that our intention?"
So, with this is mind, Welcome to the "Say this/ Not that" series.
As we waltz into summer, this is a simply daily check in, that I hope can be a bit fun. That will give you and your family, micro classroom, online class, or those young ones you encourage and opportunity to learn and grow together.
Today, let's take a look at the word, "stupid."
Why We Don’t Say “Stupid” – Day 1 of the Say This / Not That Series
Language shapes the way we think, treat others, and even how we see ourselves. At Evolved Kid, we believe in helping children develop the emotional literacy to choose words that lift others up rather than tear them down.
Today, we’re talking about a word that many people use without thinking: “stupid.”
It might seem like just a word, but it can really hurt.
Did you know scientists say that the pain caused by mean words can be just as strong as physical pain?
Calling someone “stupid” can make them feel like they aren’t smart, capable, or good enough, and that’s just not true.
Most people say “stupid” when they’re frustrated or when someone makes a mistake. But there are better ways to express ourselves.
Instead of:
“That’s a stupid idea!”
Try saying:
“Let’s think about this together.”
Or:
“That’s tricky, but we can figure it out.”
Why this matters:
When kids learn to speak with kindness and understanding, they grow into adults who lead with empathy. Studies show that children exposed to positive language are better at handling conflict and showing compassion.
Thank you for being a part of the Say This / Not That movement.
Let’s raise kind, emotionally aware communicators, together.
Sources:
Keep Evolving, with love!
~ Gahmya
