Description

Practical phrases for building motivation, confidence, and independence.

You’ve reminded your child to get started. Explained the directions again. Tried giving them space—and stayed nearby to help. Yet the work still isn’t moving forward, and you’re wondering what to say next.

Words That Work: What to Say While Building Skills is a printable teaching guide that helps you respond to these everyday challenges with more clarity, curiosity, and connection.

You’ll find 25 practical phrase swaps, each paired with a simple explanation of how it supports your child’s developing skills.

Find helpful words for five common challenges

• When motivation is low: Explore what’s getting in the way, offer meaningful choices, and invite ownership.
• When getting started feels hard: Help your child find a small, manageable first step.
• When they still need your support: Offer guidance that matches their current skills while making room for practice.
• When focus and follow-through are hard: Talk about tools and adjustments that make the task more manageable.
• When they say, “I’ve got it”: Respect their growing independence while keeping help available.

Small shifts you can use today

Instead of “Just get started,” try:
“What’s the smallest next step that feels doable right now?”

Instead of “You shouldn’t need a checklist,” try:
“Let’s put the steps where you can see them.”

These phrases help you open a conversation, identify the support your child needs, and work toward the next step together.

What’s included

• 25 “instead of / words that work” examples
• Brief explanations connecting each phrase to skill development
• Helpful insights about choice, executive function, and stress
• Quick-start tips for practicing the language in your home
• Ideas for using your planner to notice progress and prepare for recurring challenges

Drawn from the Building Skills for Independence masterclass conversations between Michelle Brownell and Dan Marcone, LMHC, this guide brings the teaching into everyday homeschool moments.

You don’t have to say everything perfectly. Start with one phrase and one practical support, then notice what helps your child participate with greater confidence.

Format: Printable PDF digital download. No physical product will be shipped. Masterclass recordings are sold separately.