The words we use with our students are important. I was reminded of this when I saw a tweet from my state’s department of education. The tweet gave some ideas to use instead of the popular “Muffins with Mom” or “Donuts with Dad.” On the surface, these two names might not seem like a problem, but what about the students who do not have a mother or father in the picture? How does that make these children feel when they don’t have a mother at “Muffins with Mom” or a dad at the “Donuts with Dad” event?
This is one of the many reasons why the words we use with our students are so important. I try to keep this in mind when talking to my students. I try not to say, “Have your mom or dad help with this tonight at home.” Instead, I say, “Ask your homework helper to give you a hand with this.” This homework helper could be a mom, dad, grandparent, sibling, or neighbor. It’s one way I try to make all students feel included.
What words do you use in your classroom to help students feel comfortable? What alternatives to “Donuts with Dad” and “Muffins with Mom” could we use instead?