Unleashing The Power of Praise: A Masterclass in Amplifying Your Child’s Behaviour
I’m Queen Slay head concierge at Slay Bambini, multi-billionaire, and now somehow, an impromptu parenting guru. Let’s talk about the one tool in your parenting arsenal that you are probably using wrong – praise. A weapon that, when used correctly, can advance your child’s behaviour in leaps and bounds.
Praise is more than a pat on the head, a thumbs up emoji, or a vague “good job.” The power of praise, used effectively, transforms itself into a guide, leading our kids towards behaviour that deserves repeating.
Now, before we ride in, let’s get something straight. I’m not preaching the “every child gets a medal” BS. Empty, unearned praise is as good as stuffing your hundred dollar bills into a bonfire. You’re just burning resources without any ROI. And not to mention, it defeats the whole purpose!
Long-lasting, impactful praise, my friends, acknowledges efforts, encourages growth, and highlights strengths. It’s not a bandaid-colored sticker. It’s a recognition of hard, in-the-trenches work – a beacon that illuminates our child’s path, leading them to repeat their successful maneuvers.
1. **Praise the Effort, Not Just the Outcome**
The world’s not fair, and life doesn’t give participation trophies. Sometimes, despite the best efforts, the dragon doesn’t fall, the championship doesn’t come home. But remember this – the valor was in the fight.
The key to efficient praise? Focus on the process, not just the end result. Commend dedication, hard work, resilience. Encourage that, stoke the fire, and you get a kid who understands the correlation between effort and success.
2. **Be Specific**
Believe it or not, “good job” means nothing. It’s a throwaway phrase, a lazily scribbled note in the margin. Swap this with detailed acknowledgments. Try “I love how you showed patience in finishing your puzzle” or “You did a great job of sharing with your brother.”
Genuine, specific praise shows you notice their struggle, you value their persistence. You aren’t just teaching them values, but demonstrating it from your end as well.
3. **Don’t Overdo It**
Welcome to the economics of praise. Too much inflation, and your currency – your words – lose value. Constant, over-the-top praise can create a false sense of achievement and feed complacency. Keep the praise realistic, grounded, and tied to achievable milestones.
Remember, we’re not picking flowers here. We’re raising kids who kill dragons. So, parents, let’s gird our loins, dig in, and switch our approach. Praise effectively – nature’s own growth hormone. The results will be living, breathing proof of its power.
Stay powerful folks, and keep raising champions.
Keep the praise realistic, grounded, and tied to achievable milestones. Remember, we’re not picking flowers here. We’re raising kids who kill dragons.
Empty, unearned praise is as good as stuffing your hundred dollar bills into a bonfire. You're just burning resources without any ROI
