While we would all most likely agree that any praise directed towards a child is positive, it is often helpful to reflect upon the desired impact of our words. Are we looking to simply acknowledge a request ("Mom look at my drawing") or is our aim to increase self confidence and encourage personal growth. Even the youngest children are able to feel the difference between sincere flattery and canned expressions....why not make it a goal to increase your child's self-esteem by tweaking your compliments to sound more encouraging! Hopefully, these examples will help you get some ideas of how to upgrade your own specific praises.
Instead of: "What a pretty picture?"
Try: "Your trees are getting much more detailed...they almost look real!"
Instead of: "I am proud that you got an A on your spelling test"
Try: "I see you worked hard to memorize all your words this week!"
Instead of: "Terrific job selling all of your Girl Scout Cookies!"
Try: "What a great idea to smile and make eye contact when you talked to customers!"
With just a few simple words you can help your child feel responsible for their own achievements and provide them with tools for continued success!
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