Praising Kids: More Ways To Build Your Child’s Self-Esteem

In a previous post, I spoke about the right way to praise kids. This is one of the hardest skills for me to learn. I know many parents in my classes have asked for more examples on how to use this technique.

You ask and I try to deliver. The key to praising effectively is to just describe what you see without any judgment. As if you are asked to objectively describe a scene playing out in front of you.

Here are some more ideas on how to use this skill:

On the playground:

“When Sara wanted to play with the swings you got off and gave her a turn.”

About school:

“This report card reflects effort and hard work.”

At the grocery store:

“You put the groceries on the checkout counter,  loaded the packages in the car and then helped put them away.”

At the pool:

“You should be proud of yourself. Turn around and look how far you swam. You swam from here to here!”

On the soccer field:

“You got the ball and you passed it to your teammate and he made the goal!”

At home:

“Your room had clothing all over the floor and now all that clothing is hung up or in the laundry basket!”

Praising kids is an art but it is the best way to build their self-esteem.

Let us know what you think. Leave your comments below.