Three Phrases to Use Instead of Raising Your Voice in the Classroom
- Behavior Breakthroughs
- May 6
- 3 min read
Updated: May 9
How to Use These Three Phrases to Avoid Raising Your Voice in the Classroom
Raising Your Voice Backfires
Every teacher has been there—frustrated, overwhelmed, and tempted to raise their voice just to get students back on task. But while it may feel effective in the moment, yelling often leads to power struggles, increased tension, and long-term damage to classroom relationships.
If you're looking for behavior management strategies that actually work, it's time to shift from reacting with volume to responding with clarity and calm. Your words matter—but your tone and timing matter even more.
The Power of Calm & Clear Phrasing
Using intentional language helps students self-regulate while reinforcing your authority—without resorting to yelling or emotional outbursts. Here are three phrases you can use during challenging moments that help you stay in control and model emotional regulation.
Below are three Phrases to Use Instead of Raising Your Voice in the Classroom
1. “Take a breath—let’s try again.”
This simple phrase resets the moment without confrontation. It tells students that mistakes are part of the process and gives them a path back to success without shame. It's especially effective when delivered quietly and with eye contact.
Why it works:
Encourages self-regulation
Defuses tension without escalation
Keeps the focus on moving forward
2. “Show me what you know you’re capable of.”
Instead of calling out what the student is doing wrong, this phrase brings their strengths to the surface. It acts as a reminder of expectations and communicates your belief in their potential.
Why it works:
Shifts focus to personal responsibility
Promotes internal motivation
Reinforces positive identity and behavior
3. “I’ll wait until you’re ready.”
One of the most effective tools for avoiding power struggles is patience. This phrase signals that you're not going to engage in a battle for control, but you're still holding firm to your expectations. It gives the student space to regroup without giving up authority.
Why it works:
Maintains control without aggression
Shows respect while holding boundaries
Gives the student a clear path back to task
Why This Approach Builds Real Classroom Management
These phrases aren’t just nice alternatives to yelling—they are research-aligned, trauma-informed behavior supports that help you create a more respectful, safe learning environment. When students see that your expectations are firm but fair—and that you're not easily thrown off—they're more likely to mirror that stability.
Your tone sets the tone. Staying steady not only prevents escalation but also builds the kind of trust that leads to long-term behavior change.
Want More Practical Classroom Behavior Tools?
If you found this helpful, explore more classroom management strategies in our Behavior Breakthroughs blog. You can also subscribe to our free weekly newsletter packed with real-world tips for teachers who are ready to lead with confidence—without losing their cool.
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Behavior support isn’t just about what you say—it’s about what you provide to help kids succeed.
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