Words of Encouragement and Praise

Children thrive on positive attention. Children need to feel loved and appreciated. Most parents find that it is easier to provide negative feedback rather than positive feedback. By selecting and using some of the phrases below on a daily basis with your child, you will find that he will start paying more attention to you and will try harder to please. Recent research shows that ADHD children may need more praise than the average child. Unfortunately, because of their behavior they often receive less.

At-a-boy      Right       That’s right      Correct       Wonderful     

I like the way you do that    I’m pleased with (proud of ) you     

That’s good      Wow       Oh boy     Very nice      Good work      Great going

Good for you      That’s the way       Much better      O.K.          

You’re doing better     That’s perfect       Good idea      What a cleaver idea

That’s it      Good job      Great job controlling yourself   

I like the way you ______      I noticed that you ____  Keep it up   

I had fun ______ with you    You are improving at ______ more and more

You showed a lot of responsibility when you ______       Way to go    

I appreciate the way you ______      You are great at that      You're the best

Good remembering     That’s beautiful       I like your______   

I like the way you ______ with out having to be asked (reminded)      

I’m sure glad you are my son/daughter     Now you’ve got it           

I love you

You can SHOW them how you feel as well as tell them.

Smile     Nod     Part on shoulder, head, knee     Wink

Signal or gesture to signify approval     High five      Touch cheek

Tickle   Laugh (with, not at)     Pat on the back      Hug

For more information on how to improve your communication with children we recommend the following materials:  Building Your Child's Self-Esteem, Kid Cooperation and When Anger Hurts.   For more information on parenting go to [Improving Your Child's Behavior and Self-Esteem]

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