By Sweta Satapathy (Curriculum Research and Development)

Have you ever noticed a student flinch a little when you call their name? Maybe they don’t quite make eye contact, or their voice is softer when they participate. It can be a confusing moment – you’re just trying to get their attention, but something feels off, so try to set an inclusive classroom for name pronunciation.

Wrong pronunciation of a student’s name can have a bigger impact than we might realize. It can create a distance, a feeling of being “other” in the classroom. This can be especially true for students from different cultures, languages, or ethnicities.

Maybe they don’t quite make eye contact, or their voice is softer when they participate. It can be a confusing moment – you’re just trying to get their attention, but something feels off, so try to set an inclusive classroom for name pronunciation

Think about it from their perspective. Their name is a core part of their identity, something they hear from the very beginning. When it’s consistently mangled, it can send the message that they and their background aren’t valued or respected.

This can lead to feelings of exclusion, a reluctance to participate, and even bullying from classmates who pick up on the mispronunciation.

There is a simple, yet powerful, way to turn this around. It’s a practice borrowed from multilingual countries like India, where students from diverse regional backgrounds write their names in English. There, teachers have a wonderful custom – they ask their students how to pronounce their names!

Imagine the difference this small act can make. By taking a moment to ask a student how they say their own name, you’re sending a huge message. You’re showing them that you respect their identity, their culture, and their voice.

The benefits go beyond just one student. When children see their peers’ names being treated with respect, it fosters a classroom environment that values differences. They learn empathy and the importance of getting things right, even when it comes to something seemingly small like a name.

This practice isn’t just about creating a positive learning space in the short term. It’s about raising a generation that’s more respectful and inclusive. By taking the time to learn each other’s names, we’re building bridges of understanding that will last a lifetime.

Ready to put this into practice? Here are some additional tips:

Make it a welcoming ritual:

At the beginning of the school year, or whenever you have a new student, turn name pronunciation into a fun activity. You can even have the student write their name phonetically to help you get it right.

Be open to learning:

There may be names you’ve never encountered before. Embrace the opportunity to learn something new about your student’s culture and background!

Practice makes perfect:

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. The important thing is to keep trying and show your student that you’re making an effort.

Remember, a classroom that celebrates differences is a classroom where everyone thrives. Let’s start with the magic of names, and build a more inclusive world, one pronunciation at a time.