Effective Praise

Universal. At-Risk. Targeted. Academic. Behavior. Praise. Specific. Positive Climate.

• Step 1: Choose a Time: Choose a time when children are off-task or unmotivated.

• Step 2: Specific Praise: When you see a child perform the desired task or behavior, deliver specific praise.

  • Move closer to the child and maintain eye contact if they are looking.

  • Say the child's name then describe the task or behavior they are doing.

  • Deliver the praise immediately when you notice the child being appropriate.

  • Focus on the child's effort or strategy. NOT their ability.

  • For older kids, move closer and praise them more quietly as to not embarrass them.

• Step 3: The Numbers: For a teacher: Provide 5 positive comments for every correction to the group. For a parent at home: Shoot for 5 specific praise statements during a period of learning and twice the number of praise statements than corrections.

• Example:

"Jasmine, I can tell you are working really hard on your math. Great job!"

"Nick, thank you for raising your hand before answering my question. That is so awesome!"

• Moving about the room really helps adults see instances of appropriate task or behaviors. Then, make sure to praise very quickly.

• Use specific praise for behavior and for academics.