The Power of Words

10 tips to build emotionally safe classrooms as teachers

Classrooms are not just spaces for academic learning; they are environments where students shape their identities, build relationships, and develop self-worth. The language teachers use plays a powerful role in this process. Whether in everyday conversation or moments of correction, your words influence how students see themselves and interact with others. Thoughtful communication can foster emotional safety, support self-regulation, and model respectful interactions. Below are practical strategies for using intentional, mindful language to create a more emotionally supportive and connected classroom.

1. Create a Space Where Feelings Are Welcome

Shift from “How are you doing?” to “How are you feeling?”

This slight shift signals to students that their emotions are not only noticed but valued. When a student says they’re upset or frustrated, follow up with genuine curiosity. This teaches them that putting feelings into words helps in managing them better.

2. Choose Curiosity Over Judgment

Shift from “Why did you do that?” to “What happened?”  

The word “why” can feel accusatory, while “what” invites reflection and encourages students to explore their feelings without defensiveness.

3. Acknowledge Feelings, Redirect Behaviour

Shift from "Don’t be angry." to "It’s okay to be angry. It’s not okay to throw things."

It’s important to separate how a student feels from what they do. Saying this helps students recognise that while feelings are natural, our actions in response to them are important. This builds emotional intelligence and validates their emotional state while setting clear boundaries.

4. Help students name their feelings by sharing your own.

Try phrases like, “I felt discouraged when that happened to me,” or “Does all this homework feel overwhelming right now?”

Students often struggle to articulate their emotions simply because they don’t yet have the words. You can help them grow their emotional vocabulary by using thoughtful language yourself. 

5. Begin With Brief Emotional Check-Ins

Try asking, “Give a thumbs up if you feel good, thumbs down if you don't feel okay, and thumbs sideways if you are somewhere in between”

A small, daily check-in habit can give students a quick and safe way to express how they’re doing. A short chat with a peer or teacher afterwards can open space for more meaningful conversations.

6. Address the Whole Class

Shift from "Stop speaking!" to "Let’s remember, we raise our hands before speaking."

Instead of calling out a student directly, gently remind the class of the expected behaviour. This keeps the environment safe and respectful while reinforcing rules.

7. Keep Expectations High and Clear

Shift from "You're not trying hard enough." to "I know you're capable of doing great work, what's getting in the way today?"

Let students know you believe in their potential. It communicates belief in their goodness while holding them accountable. Always target the behaviour, not the person.

8. Use Simple, Clear Reminders

Shift from "You always forget your stuff!" to "Riya, please take your notebook."

Instead of lengthy corrections, stick to short, direct prompts. This keeps the class moving while gently helping the student stay on track.

9. Use ‘I’ Statements to Communicate Needs

Say things like, “I feel distracted when there's a lot of talking during instructions because I want everyone to understand what to do.” 

This kind of statement models how to express feelings and needs respectfully.

10. Offer Fresh Starts

Shift from "Don’t come back until you behave." to "Let’s take a break and talk before the next class so we can start fresh."

Everyone has rough days, including students. If a student had a tough day, greet them with grace the next day. This reinforces the idea that mistakes are growth opportunities.

The words teachers choose in the classroom can either open or close doors for students. Language has the power to build confidence, create safety, and promote self-understanding. When you speak with care, you teach more than academics. By making conscious language choices, you can not only manage the classroom better, but you also model what it means to be thoughtful, empathetic humans. And that may be one of the most important lessons of all.

References

https://www.annafreud.org/resources/schools-and-colleges/classroom-wellbeing-toolkit/