Using encouraging words towards children can have a powerful positive effect on them. Positive reinforcement can condition a child to repeat the praised behavior. Weather its academic or an extracurricular achievement your child benefits from encouragement and positive praise. Giving praise can improve self-esteem, increase motivation to achieve, and enhance perseverance.
Believe it or not there is a right and wrong way to praise a child. Here are some tips on using words of encouragement for kids effectively.
Praise Sincerely and Honestly
Although we want to praise our child purposely to encourage certain behaviors we do not want to use insincere words because it can be harmful to your child. Praises that are inconsistent to their behavior can lead to self-criticism and even intentional sabotage.
Be Specific and Descriptive
Point out specific aspects of the child’s performance and describe what behavior led to good results. This also shows the child that you have paid attention and that you care.
Praise Their Effort
When children can relate their effort to the praise they learn that they have the power to control or improve through hard work and practice.
Avoid Controlling or Conditional Praise
Praise that is given with the intent to manipulate or control a child can be harmful and affect a child’s self-worth.
Avoid Easy-Task Praise or Over-Praise
Praising an easy task can be perceived as insincere and lowers expectations of the child’s competence. Children who are over-praised will expect praises every time they complete a task.
Avoid Comparison Praise
Children who are praised by comparison can lose motivation faster. Social-comparison praise teaches children that winning, not learning, is the goal.
Use this link to learn about the Do’s and Don’ts of Encouragement!