Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

01-10-2025

Make Praise Genuine and Meaningful

The praise you offer can affect how your child will face challenges in school and in life.

To use praise effectively, remember to:

• Compliment your child often, but only when it's deserved. By third grade, kids realize that people are judged by their achievements. They know when their actions are deserving of praise. You can lose your child's trust by over-praising, or by giving insincere praise.
• Praise specific behavior. Make it clear which of your child's actions you're complimenting. "I'm proud that you stuck with that tough math problem."
• Focus on the process rather than the child. Say, "You put so much effort into your work," not "You're so smart for getting your work done."

Brought to you by:

West Point Consolidated School District

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