Using Positive Language to Empower Your Students!

Do you use positive language to handle behaviors in your class?

As teachers, we have the power to set the tone in our classroom.  Do you want students to walk into your classroom feeling like they are constantly making mistakes and failing?  Or, do you want students to walk into your classroom feeling like it is a safe space where they can thrive?  If you are taking the time to get advice and read articles, I think I know the answer to that question.  You are obviously the type of teacher who wants to make your classroom the best that it can be.

Reminding yourself to use positive language in the classroom is a great way of keeping students’ self-esteem strong and can prevent behaviors.

Positive Language Tells Students What You Want to See

Instead of yelling at students for all of the things that they’re doing that they shouldn’t be, remind them of what you should be seeing.  For example, instead of saying “don’t call out”, you can say “remember, we raise our hands when we want to share something.”  With this, you are giving students a polite reminder of what the expectations are without making a student feel like they are being singled out or called out in front of their peers.

Other examples, instead of saying “don’t run”, you can say, “don’t forget, we walk when we’re inside!” Or, instead of “don’t touch each other” you can say, “remember, we keep our hands to ourselves!”

Reinforcing Good Behavior

When you use positive language in your classroom, you are clearly defining your expectations.  Students understand exactly what you want to see and there is no ambiguity.  You are also reinforcing good behavior.  All of this will help your students feel welcomed, respected, and appreciated in your classroom.  And as we know, students who enjoy a classroom and the teacher are going to be more receptive to learning and they will try harder.

Also, check out:

What to Do When You’re About to Lose Your Cool!

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