Praising your child “THE RIGHT WAY”

Praising your child “THE RIGHT WAY”

Mini Minds Preschool: Notes on praising your child “THE RIGHT WAY”

Praising children is something we adults should do regularly. However, knowing how to praise appropriately and to what extent, so as to motivate them without making them overly self-satisfied, is not a simple matter. Today’s article from Mini Minds Preschool aims to address some key points on how to praise your child correctly. Parents, please take a look:
👏🏻 Choose the right moment to praise: Praise is most effective when a child achieves something significant. For example, many parents praise their children for eating. In reality, eating is just a normal need for children, but we praise it. Instead of praising, we should encourage them to eat, especially when we want them to try new foods. Additionally, praise should be timely. For instance, praising your child immediately after they achieve something (rather than a few days later) is more effective. This shows your child that you are always paying attention and supporting them.
👏🏻 Don’t overlook positive efforts in negative outcomes: Sometimes, we need to praise even when a child fails. If they have put in a long effort but the results are not as expected, you should encourage them to try harder next time and praise them for the efforts they have made. This will help them feel acknowledged, not fear failure, and be more motivated.
👏🏻 Try saying “We’re very proud of you!”: Larissa Dann, a 20-year veteran parenting coach in Australia, suggests to her trainees that instead of saying “We’re proud of you,” switch to “We’re very proud of you!” or “Wow! We’re incredibly impressed with your achievement!” This subtle change focuses solely on the child’s accomplishment.
👏🏻 Focus on the child when praising them: Sometimes we praise our child for a good achievement but then praise others for achieving more. When praising, focus only on your child. Also, avoid comparing your child to their peers. Comparisons can lead to distorted self-assessments and foster jealousy or self-doubt.
With the right kind of praise, parents can provide the “mental strength” children need to excel in their endeavors. Parents, give your children meaningful and heartfelt praise!