Praise takes so little time, and yet the benefits are great. It is almost always appropriate to offer general praise to your kids, but specific praise can help reinforce positive behaviors in the following situations.

1. Offer praise for the things we take for granted

Look for the little things that your child already does but that you may take for granted. A quick word of thanks will help reinforce these behaviors while also adding to your child's confidence.

2. Offer praise for improvement, no matter how small

Don't reserve praise for only large accomplishments. A little encouragement goes a long way to motivate your child to work harder.

3. Offer praise for trying to learn something new

It's hard to learn something new or to adopt a different behavior. Praising your child is a great way to help them along. As mentioned above, offer praise and encouragement often to reinforce your child's learning.

Remember that your enthusiasm and attention to your children's attempts at success can carry over to many areas of their lives, regardless of age. Because praise helps children gain confidence and self-esteem, they will be better at accepting feedback, admitting mistakes, making friends, offering to help, talking with guests, etc.