- Teach your parrot a preferred alternative phrase and praise it when it uses it.
Time outs
- When you hear the curse word, immediately place the parrot in a time-out cage or a quiet room for a few minutes.
Consistent response
- All family members should respond to the curse word in a consistent way so the parrot learns that the behavior is unacceptable.
Positive reinforcement
- Ignore, leave the room, or cover the cage whenever your bird says the curse word. Wait for a short time and then provide positive attention when your bird has stopped saying the curse word.
Prevent opportunities to say the curse word
- Do not use curse words around your bird, and do not allow others to use them around the bird either.
- Turn off or change the channel if a TV show or movie contains curse words.