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How To How to Praise Your Child

by Kimberly L. Keith
for About.com

The behavioral effect of praise is to reinforce your child's correct behavior and self-discipline. Praise increases the bond of affection between parent and child and builds self-esteem.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1 Minute

Here's How:

  1. Look your child in the eye.
  2. Move close to your child.
  3. Smile.
  4. Praise a specific behavior. "You did a great job cleaning up your room."
  5. Speak with feeling and sincerity.
  6. Touch your child affectionately, maybe a pat on the back.
  7. Praise immediately, as soon as you notice commendable behavior.

Tips:

  1. Praise should be honest and specific.
  2. Don't dilute the effectiveness of praise by overdoing it or being insincere.
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