Praise = positive statements about behavior, what a child does.

Example:

Good job!

That was fantastic!

Affirmation = approval for just being YOU!

Example:

I like that you are independent and capable.

I like that you check things out before you jump in.

Praise without affirmation teaches a conditional love…

You need to keep “doing” things.

So many times, we get caught up in directing and correcting what our kids do…

that we miss opportunities to affirm the child for who they are…

This can lead to a child not feeling valued, appreciated, or good enough…

Not the right message or mindset. 😞

Check out these Positive Affirmation Statements and try the “Experiment” at the end…

You will begin to see the relationship go from conflict to genuine cooperation with your students.

Enjoy the journey!