Continuing with part two of week two.
When you make a descriptive comment about your child’s behavior you’re not necessarily verbally praising but simply letting your kids know that you are paying attention to what they are doing. Once you get the hang of giving attention, then add praise to your descriptive remarks. So in the previous example from part one, “you straightened your room all by yourself,” you would simple add a comment that praised the act. Adding a praise as simple as, “thank you so much”, is enough to do the trick.
Here are a few more tips the author offers on giving praise and attention:
(1) Praise works best when it closely follows the behavior and actions you want to see strengthened.
(2) Give praise only when your child is behaving- ignore misbehavior.
(3) The praise should be both descriptive and specific.
(4) Add a touch of physical affection, like a hug or kiss.
(5) Write a note of appreciation to your child.
(6) Praise as many different behaviors as possible.
(7) Praise efforts as well as accomplishments.
(8) Be sincere and genuine in your praise.
(9) Make sure there is no hint of criticism or negative remarks in your praise.
Now, for your assignment for week two. During this second week your assignment is to give your child praise and attention at least five times a day . Concentrate on behaviors that you want to strengthen. The author suggest that you select a few behaviors that you want to strengthen and each time the desired behavior occurs give lots of praise and attention. Some of the behaviors you might want to look for include:
Putting dirty clothes in hamper.
Coming into the house when called.
Getting ready for bed the first time when asked.
And that’s it for week two. Next week: using rewards and privileges to strengthen behavior.
See also:
8 Weeks To A Well-Behaved Child Week One
8 Weeks To A Well-Behaved Child Week Two, Part One