EP335 How teacher language shapes us—and teaches kids to find their wisest self (with Lily Howard Scott)

“Giving kids, and yourself, language to wrap around the idea that we have an inner leader (our kindest, best self) is transformative.”

Join me as I talk with Lily Howard Scott, a NYC-based parent, educator, and author, who shares insights from her book The Words That Shape Us: The Science-Based Power of Teacher Language.

We’re exploring how our internal self-talk shapes our perceptions of students and ourselves, and how intentional language can transform classroom culture. Lily shares practical strategies for helping students of all ages:

• Notice and separate from their thoughts and feelings (“feelings as visitors”)
• Understand they are always good inside, even when they make a bad choice
• Access their wisest self to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting automatically

Lily also introduces tools like “outer shells and inner swirls” to help students notice assumptions and guide interactions in more mindful, empowering ways.

Whether you’re looking to improve classroom culture, support student self-reflection, or strengthen your own teacher mindset, this episode offers actionable strategies and inspiring reminders about the words we choose and the impact they have.

Get the shareable article/transcript for this episode here.