Praising kids

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Praising Your Tween


(Parent & Child)

Using general words, like "good." Be specific about what your child has done well so she knows how to repeat it.


Taking responsibility for your child's success. "If I hadn't made you study every night the week before, you might have failed again." "I told you you'd be a natural; that's why I signed you up."


Punishing a child for his mistakes. Mistakes are a necessary part of learning and show what still needs to be understood or addressed.


Offering money or presents. This can backfire as children demand more, view learning as a means to an end, or feel they lack your trust to achieve without it.


Using sarcasm. "This report card is great, but it took you long enough to get there!" "That model's perfect! Who'd know you used to be all thumbs?"