How to Praise Kids Effectively

Todd Hicks
If you are a parent or teacher, do you want your kids to feel appreciated and behave? You can help to achieve this with praise. By reading this article, you will learn ways to praise children effectively.

First: You should thank them for fulfilling their obligations. For example, if they do everything they are supposed to on any given day, you can say, "You did all of your work well and on time. I am proud of you."

Second: You should express gratitude when your children fully obey your request. If they quickly bring an item you ask for, you can say, "Thank you. You did that quickly and I appreciate that."

Third: It is important to congratulate them for doing something nice. If they do something to help you or someone else without being obligated, it would be a good idea for you to say, "You went out of your way to do something nice, even though you did not have to. Good job!"

Fourth: Young students need reinforcement when they excel on a homework assignment or test. How about using a special decoration? While going to school, I sometimes got a quiz I did well on back with a gold star or smiley face on it followed by a comment that reinforced my achievement.

Fifth: It is helpful to recognize kids' progress. When they show improvement on something, you should bring it to their attention.

Sixth: It is important to thank kids for conducting themselves properly. While being a substitute teacher, I learned you should praise the class for good behavior.

Seventh: Model students need recognition. If someone is doing his class work assignment quietly, it is nice to say, "Look at Joe. He's doing his work quietly."

Eighth: It is crucial to not be too selective. You must not single any one student out to praise.

Ninth: It is sometimes necessary to do something good for a kid who does well. You can do this with a reward; however, you have to avoid going overboard. The reward you choose should not be too extravagant.

Tenth: You have to be careful how you praise their outfits. If they are dressed well, you should merely say, "You look nice."

You have learned steps you can incorporate to praise children effectively for their good deeds and behavior. Use what you have learned to encourage your kids to stay on the right path!

Published by Todd Hicks

Todd Hicks sells t-shirts and bags at http://sdinst.spreadshirt.com He also provides a keyboard typing lesson, tennis/baseball lesson and academic study guide. To become a great typist, tennis player or stu...  View profile

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