What Do I Say?

You know the lesson. But what do you say when the moment was never in the lesson plan?

A student says something shocking. A parent approaches you at dismissal. A classroom joke crosses a line. A child shares something serious. Suddenly, your training feels very far away-and you need the next sentence now.

What Do I Say? gives teachers practical, adaptable language for 58 real-world classroom situations, from awkward and embarrassing moments to disclosures, conflict, family communication, professional boundaries, and the days when absolutely nothing goes according to plan.

Inside, you'll find:

• Word-for-word scripts you can adapt to sound like you

• Thirty-second responses for situations happening right now

• "What if?" variations for moments that refuse to follow the script

• A simple triage framework for knowing when to respond, support, or act now

• Clear reminders that protect student dignity without asking teachers to solve everything alone

Warm, direct, and grounded in the realities of school life, this is the guide to keep within reach when your brain has gone completely blank.

You do not have to know everything. You just need to know how to begin.