Current Course Schedule

Brain-Changing Words: Phrases to Transform How Kids Think, Feel, and Achieve at School (K - Grade 8)

Brain research suggests that language is not separate from thought, but a part of thought itself. What we say and what we hear creates neural pathways that trigger brand-new patterns of thinking. Until a learner is exposed to a word or a particular combination of words, epiphanies lie dormant. For instance, a teacher’s unusual pairing of the words “brilliant” and “mistake” in the phrase “what a brilliant mistake!” can rewire how a child responds to making mistakes, replacing feelings of shame with self-compassion and resilience. Teachers who share bite-sized, literally brain-altering language with students (who repeat this language to themselves as positive self-talk) can transform how students feel, and therefore do, in the classroom and beyond. In this class, I’ll introduce simple, affirming language suggestions and practical curricular extensions (such as morning meeting activities, visual art exercises, poetry invitations, and reading responses) that help students explore and internalize these transformative phrases. Practical resources will be shared with participants after each session.

Term(s) offered: Summer
Format: Online
  • Course Number
    TEWS867N
  • Focus On
    Grades K - 8
  • Category
    Childhood / Elementary School, Online
  • Registration Options and Cost
    $195 4.0 CTLE or 0.4 CEU

Sections

Summer 2 2025

  • Section 1:
    Date(s)
    July 15 and 17 | Online
    Day and Time
    Tuesday and Thursday, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM ET
    Registration Deadline
    Jul 8, 2025
    Register
    • Lily Scott
      Lily Scott
      Lily Howard Scott, MSEd, is an educator and author (The Words That Shape Us, Scholastic 2025). Her work is centered around helping children navigate their inner lives, connect with each other, and take the risks that lead to meaningful learning. Scott presents regularly at national conferences, including NCTE's annual convention and CASEL's SEL Exchange. Her writing about the importance of a child-centric, holistic approach to teaching and learning has been published in Edutopia and The Washington Post, among other publications. For nearly 10 years, Lily taught elementary school in both public and independent settings. Howard Scott holds a MS in Elementary Education and Literacy from Bank Street College.