Mindful Parenting: Giving Compliments

Giving compliments is powerful. But there are ways to do it that are more meaningful than just saying "good game" or some other quick statement. Be specific - it will have much more impact on your kids (or anyone else, for that matter). You can also make it personal. Ask questions about how the recipient of the compliment felt while preparing for the event or during the event itself. And consider complimenting things that are unusual - traits that don't normally get recognition (for example, if you have a child that gets a lot of praise for musical ability, consider praising her dependability instead). And above all, be sure that your body language doesn't negate your compliment. Give the recipient your full attention while praising him or her.