The words we choose show respect for others and ourselves. Using appropriate language helps people feel comfortable and safe when talking with us.
The words we choose show respect for others and ourselves. Using appropriate language helps people feel comfortable and safe when talking with us.
The words we use can make people feel happy, sad, welcome, or left out. Inappropriate language might hurt someone's feelings or create misunderstandings even if we didn't mean to cause harm.
The words we use can make people feel happy, sad, welcome, or left out. Inappropriate language might hurt someone's feelings or create misunderstandings even if we didn't mean to cause harm.
Before I speak, I can ask myself if my words are kind, true, and necessary. Taking a moment to think helps me choose better words.
Before I speak, I can ask myself if my words are kind, true, and necessary. Taking a moment to think helps me choose better words.
Appropriate language includes please, thank you, and excuse me. It also means using proper names for things and avoiding words that might upset others.
Appropriate language includes please, thank you, and excuse me. It also means using proper names for things and avoiding words that might upset others.
The words that work well change depending on where we are. Language for the playground might be different from language for the classroom or dinner table.
The words that work well change depending on where we are. Language for the playground might be different from language for the classroom or dinner table.
To start a good conversation, I can ask questions like "What did you do this weekend?" or "What do you think about this book?" These questions show interest in others.
To start a good conversation, I can ask questions like "What did you do this weekend?" or "What do you think about this book?" These questions show interest in others.
Everyone makes mistakes with words sometimes. When this happens, I can say sorry and try to do better next time.
Everyone makes mistakes with words sometimes. When this happens, I can say sorry and try to do better next time.
If I am unsure whether something is appropriate to say, I can ask a trusted adult. Teachers and parents can help guide my language choices.
If I am unsure whether something is appropriate to say, I can ask a trusted adult. Teachers and parents can help guide my language choices.

Why Appropriate Language Matters

The words we choose show respect for others and ourselves. Using appropriate language helps people feel comfortable and safe when talking with us.