Words Matter
The words we choose and the language we use have the power to affect the people around us and our environment. Our words represent our beliefs, morals, and principles and can shape an audience’s perceptions of us as well. Our spoken and written words send messages!
As we work with students of all ages, from early elementary through middle school years, students, undoubtedly “play” with language. Their facility with language is an indication of their evolving sophistication. Children learn that words have multiple meanings. They discover humor through stories, jokes, and riddles. And, at times, they develop their own words and discover slang phrases unique to their generation.
Within children’s fast-paced worlds, they are exposed to language at a rate that, oftentimes, adults can’t keep pace. Regardless of the pace, though, we hold a responsibility for our youth. With a sharp ear and a keen eye, we must listen to what words children are using and/or look at what words children are typing. We must learn about the words our children are using. We must ask questions. We must instruct children — of all ages — about multiple meanings if they exist and are unknown to our youngsters. We must remind our young people to assess their audiences and be respectful of them.
Teaching the adage: there’s a time and a place, can go a long way in establishing needed parameters. For some children, social parameters are easily understood, without much explanation. Yet, for many others, they must be explicitly taught in school and at home.
Words certainly matter. By working together, we can continue to cultivate school environments that honor children’s voices, while also being instructive. Our young people need us more than ever, as they develop into mature language-users, whose words will have the power to change the world.