Curb the Cursing

I'm not big on cussing. I'm not one of those people who drop f-bombs on frequent occassions or have a hard time controlling my language around children. However, yesterday, I found myself having to rein it in.

I have to keep reminding myself: These children are only eight years old. They have only been alive for eight years. What do you really expect out of them?

Here's a sample from my day yesterday:
Me: Get out your library book if you have it. If you don't have it, you don't have to tell me.
Several students: I forgot mine at home!
Me: Again, only get out your library book IF YOU HAVE IT. If you forgot it, I don't care.
Several students: I don't have mine!
Me: Listen. Get your library book out. If you don't have it, you don't have it. If you forgot it, okay. Just get it out, if you have it.
Students: I left mine at home!
Me: Library books out. If you don't have it, you don't need to say anything.
(Arnulfo raises his hand)
Me: Yes, Arnulfo
Arnulfo: I don't have mine.

Holy s&*@! In these sort of situations, you can't blame it on the language barrier. You can't say its their home life. They just AREN'T listening! I simply don't have the time or patience to say everything fifteen times.