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Precious Beginnings - Praise and Encouragement
Q. Why should I praise my toddler for the good behavior he is already doing?
A. Your child needs to know you appreciate the good things he does. As your child masters a certain behavior, you may choose to communicate through gestures, such as a "thumbs up," nod or smile. Don't take good behavior for granted. If you do, you'll find yourself focusing only on the negative things he does.
Q. My daughter finally started to eat all the food on her plate. How often do I have to praise her for not wasting food?
A. Praise needs to continue until the behavior becomes a habit. It doesn't always have to be verbal praise either. Nonverbal cues, such as a pat on the back or a smile, can be just as powerful.
Q. My son does more bad things than good things. Is it okay if I correct him more than I praise him?
A. No child should be criticized more than he or she is praised. First of all, you may be too selective. Don't withhold praise until an outstanding moment occurs. Take a closer look at the little things he is doing, and praise his efforts. Create opportunities for him to succeed, and praise his accomplishments. Try to spend more time doing fun things with your son and point out the good things he does.
Q. When my daughter does something right, I praise her. However, the praise doesn't seem to be enough to create lasting change. What should I do?
A. Be patient. Praise is sometimes like water on a rock - over time, the persistent flow of the water changes the shape of the rock. She may need just a little more time to respond. Perhaps you need to communicate your feelings better by being more enthusiastic and affectionate. If you're not already doing so, occasionally give her a small reward (longer playtime, a favorite snack, etc.) as reinforcement.
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