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• The Power of Language: Inclusive Practices for School-Based Professionals

  At Ampersand Therapy, we know that words matter—a lot. The way we talk can shape how people feel, build stronger connections, and create spaces where everyone feels like they belong. As special education professionals, we get to lead the way by using inclusive language in our classrooms and with our teammates.

  When someone offers a more inclusive phrase, it’s not about being corrected—it’s about making a connection. It’s a chance to grow, be more thoughtful, and make sure everyone feels seen and respected. Even small changes in how we speak can have a big, positive impact on students, coworkers, and the whole school community.

  Here are some simple, powerful inclusive language tips you can start using right away at school:

   Gender-Neutral Terms

  Avoid language that assumes binary gender.

  ❌ “Hey guys!”
  ✅ “Hey everyone!” or “Hey team!”
  
  

  This small switch helps every student and colleague feel acknowledged, regardless of gender identity.

  Avoiding Ableist Language

  Common phrases may unintentionally marginalize people with disabilities. Consider alternatives that are both accurate and respectful.

  ❌ “I’m so OCD about this.”
  ✅ “I like things to be organized.”
  
  

  ❌ “Turn a blind eye.”
  ✅ “Ignore” or “Overlook.”
  
  

  As educators and advocates, using respectful language reinforces dignity and inclusivity for all students.

  Using Inclusive Pronouns

  When unsure of someone’s pronouns, it’s best to default to they/them until clarified.

  Introduce yourself with your pronouns to model inclusion (e.g., “Hi, I’m Jordan, and I use they/them pronouns.”)
  
  

  ❌ “She or he will help you.”
  ✅ “They will help you.”

  ❌ “Chairman.”
  ✅ “Chairperson” or “Chair.”
  
  
  

  This small change can create a safer, more welcoming environment for students and staff across the gender spectrum.

  Culturally Sensitive Language

  Some phrases may carry racial or class-based stereotypes. It’s important to rethink how we describe things and offer compliments.

  ❌ “That’s so ghetto.”
  ✅ “That’s outdated” or “That’s low-quality.”
  
  

  ❌ “You’re so articulate!”
  ✅ “You explained that really well!”
  
  

  Our language should celebrate communication without reinforcing harmful assumptions.

  Inclusive Family and Relationship Terms

  Not all students come from a traditional nuclear family—and that’s okay.

  ❌ “Mom and Dad”
  ✅ “Parents,” “Guardians,” or “Caregivers”
  
  

  ❌ “Husband/Wife”
  ✅ “Spouse” or “Partner”
  
  

  Using neutral terms ensures all family structures are respected and represented.

  Using People-First Language (When Appropriate)

  People-first language puts the focus on the individual, not their condition. That said, some individuals and communities prefer identity-first language—so when in doubt, ask.

  ❌ “A disabled person”
  ✅ “A person with a disability”

  ❌ “An autistic person”
  ✅ “A person with autism” (unless identity-first language is preferred)

  Language is personal. Respecting preferences shows you care—and that never goes out of style.

  Holiday and Cultural Awareness

  Holidays offer a meaningful opportunity to celebrate culture, build community, and foster curiosity—but it’s essential to approach them with intention and inclusivity.

  • Educate, Don’t Just Decorate: Go beyond surface-level celebrations. Share the cultural significance behind holidays like Diwali, Eid al-Fitr, Lunar New Year, Juneteenth, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and others. Help students understand why these days matter to the communities that honor them.
    
    

  • Use Inclusive, Non-Assumptive Language: Instead of saying “everyone loves Christmas,” try “some families celebrate Christmas, while others may observe different traditions or none at all.” This small shift signals that every student’s background is valid and valued.
    
    

  • Acknowledge a Wide Range of Traditions: Don’t center every classroom celebration around dominant-culture holidays. Make space to highlight underrepresented ones and invite students (when they’re comfortable) to share about traditions that are meaningful to them.
    
    

  Creating an environment where diverse holidays and traditions are recognized not only teaches respect—it helps all students feel seen, safe, and empowered to express who they are.

  Inclusive language is not about being perfect—it’s about being mindful. It’s about choosing words that uplift rather than exclude, that welcome rather than alienate. As school-based professionals, the way we speak is a powerful tool for shaping more equitable, compassionate communities.

  Let’s keep growing together.

  —The Ampersand Therapy Team