How to Praise a Child Correctly: Psychologists Reveal Important Tricks

21.02.2023 20:00
Updated: 14.04.2023 05:42

Parenting experts agree that sincere praise is an important step in the development of a child's personality.

However, it is important to avoid extremes.

Some parents do not notice their child's achievements at all, which can cause the child to grow up insecure and withdrawn. Others praise literally every step taken, which also does not lead to good consequences: such children stop developing and have unreasonably high self-esteem.

What rules should adults follow?

Don't praise in general terms

If mom and dad simply say "well done," then it's hard to call it praise: the child doesn't understand what specifically in his behavior or actions was worthy of attention.

Experts recommend using more precise wording: specifics are extremely important in this case.

children
Photo: © Belnovosti

Don't manipulate

Some parents use this trick both in communication with children and in contact with other adults: they praise a person only in order to ask him for something later.

Children will quickly see the connection. After that, they may develop a distrust of praise altogether.

Be sincere

A child always notices when he is praised undeservedly. This deprives praise of any meaning. Therefore, it is worth noting only those actions that objectively deserve your admiration and pleasant surprise.

Author: Marina Michalap Internet resource editor

Content
  1. What rules should adults follow?
  2. Don't praise in general terms
  3. Don't manipulate
  4. Be sincere