“You’re the best, kiddo!”
Are they? Does it do our kids any good to hear how wonderful they are all of the time? Are we building self-esteem or tearing it down?
Praise can hurt.
Studies are pretty clear that some types of praise heap pressure on kids but don’t give them tools to improve or to grow. Kristine Sorensen wanted to know, “What’s the problem” with “just showing up awards?” I was happy to answer. Praise can lead to the behaviors and character we want to see from our kids. Just as easily, however, it can grip them in learned helplessness.
Get the three tips to give praise that does some good and avoid encouragement that devalues your compliments. Watch this video!
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