“If you treat a person as they are, they will stay that same person; but if you treat they were the bigger and better person they can become, they will become that bigger and better person.” Eighteenth Century Poet
Johann Wolfgang Goethe
Seven Essentials of Effective Encouragement
adapted for children from a book by
James Kouzes and Barry Posner.
1 - Set clear standards - Be certain your child knows what is expected of him/her.
2 - Expect the Best - Communicate that you believe in your child and that he or she can do what is expected. (Be gracious with failures along the way!)
3 - Pay attention - Catch your child doing things well.
4 - Personalize recognition - Let your son or daughter know specifically what you appreciate about them and why.
5 - Tell the story - don’t be afraid to brag about what your child does right.
6 - Celebrate together - As a family, intentionally celebrate when one member accomplishes something significant.
7 - Set the example - It’s essential that you, as the parent, practice what you preach.
