Positive adult language is the professional use of words and tone of voice to enable students to learn in an engaged, active way. This includes learning social skills. To guide children toward choosing and maintaining positive behaviors, adults need to carefully choose the words and tone of voice used when speaking to them. Learning to use positive language with children takes time, but one does not have to do it all at once. The following three essentials offer a good starting place: (1) Convey belief in children; (2) Use direct language; and (3) Reinforce positive behaviors. By carefully choosing the language they use with children, teachers can empower them to learn new skills and become better selves.