There is so much power in praising a child, especially as we are slowly emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. Praise has the ability to inspire the child to be more cooperative, persistent, and hard-working. No matter the age, praise and encouragement from a teacher will help them feel good about themselves, boosting self-esteem and confidence.

It is important that children become used to receiving praise and come to expect it. We want them to stay as motivated internally as possible. They should want to accomplish the tasks before them and always find learning and growing personally satisfying.

Praise that is given to the child at the right time will nurture that intrinsic motivation and make them a resilient self-starter.

The Best Ways To Offer Praise And Encourage Good Behavior

When it comes to giving children praise and encouraging them to continue to show good behavior, we suggest that you:

•       Let the child know that you feel positively about their actions or behavior.
•       Offer more praise than criticism.
•       Look for the little successes and celebrate them.
•       Accept that every child is different.
•       Provide them with an occasional surprise to applaud them for their accomplishments.
•       Give honest and positive praise.
•       Avoid conditional and comparison praise.
•       Not over-praise the child.
•       Extend immediate feedback.
•       Be specific with what you are praising them for.
•       Praise the effort, not just the outcome.

Positive Things To Say

There are so many positive things that you can say to the children in your daycare that has the ability to boost their self-confidence and give them a sense of pride. Some great examples include:

•       “You are important.”
•       “Your words matter to me.”
•       “You’ve almost got it.”
•       “You’ve worked so hard on this.”
•       “This turned out so well!”
•       “You should be proud of yourself.”
•       “I’m so proud of you for completing the drawing!”
•       “I am always here for you when you need me.”
•       “You are loved and cared for.”
•       “Follow your heart.”
•       “I know you will do great things!”

How To Offer Praise

The way you deliver praise to children is just as important as the words you say. Be mindful of the tone of voice you use, make sure it is warm and nurturing. It is crucial that you make eye contact with the child, preferably getting down to their level and being face-to-face.

Making direct contact with the child is important, but directly speaking to them and addressing them by name is even better. Being just one of many in a daycare, talking specifically to them makes the child feel important and valued. Studies show that when children hear their name, they are more likely to comprehend and remember what you say to them.

Ways To Apply Praise

As a childcare provider, there are several ways for you to praise children daily. For example, during arts and crafts, take time to notice the work of each and every child. You can say, “Wow, Amy! You did a great job drawing the trees and flowers.”

Praising children through the process is extremely motivating because you are acknowledging their hard work along the way. For example, if a child is trying to pronounce a new word, you could tell them, “I like the way you tried to sound that word out, John. You didn’t give up.” This will inspire them to keep pursuing those more challenging tasks.

Start Praising Today With the Right Childcare Management App

These words of affirmation may sound so simple, but the influence these words have on children is unimaginable. In today’s society, praise and celebrating the unique qualities of a child is absolutely essential.

When a child receives praise and their self-value is heightened, that inspires them to treat other children the same way.

Every day at your daycare, begin to be conscious of the praise you are giving your children. Be consistent and honest in the praise, celebrating each and every milestone along the way. Let them know how valued they are and that they are special just being themselves.

You have the ability to change their lives and create for them a bright and unstoppable future.

Are you interested in seeing how our app for childcare can transform the way you praise the children in your daycare facility? Book your demo today and see why childcare providers love KinderPass.