10 Compliments Your Kids Need to Hear

This article originally appeared on iMOM.com and reflects their mission and beliefs.

How do you feel when you get a compliment from a stranger? It’s a good feeling when someone noticed something good about you and said it out loud. But how do you feel when someone you really care about compliments you on something? That’s a great feeling. So imagine the power of the list of compliments for kids we’re going to share with you today. A child who feels valued and accepted by his or her mother can change the world.

Research shows that the most motivating compliments for children are those that praise hard work, the process they use to reach goals, and traits like perseverance and dedication. But, be sure to give other compliments too–how beautiful and handsome they are, how strong and kind they are, and how amazing they are. Even if you don’t see them fully living up to the potential you know they possess, using positive words will motivate them to move in that direction. In case you’re struggling to be creative with your words, we created this list of compliments. Here are 10 compliments your kids need to hear.

We live in a world where integrity is neither consistently taught nor widely expected. When our children demonstrate honesty, kindness, trustworthiness, and reliability, that’s a great time to take them aside to offer a sincere compliment. Use this free printable to remind your kids of good character traits.

It’s too easy to fall into patterns of disapproval, where the only time we notice is when kids do wrong. Rather than waiting for disobedience or disrespect (then coming down like a ton of bricks), try noticing obedience and respect: “I don’t always remember to tell you, but you are an awesome young man, and I appreciate the way you treat people.â€

“Every time I see you, I’m thankful that I’m your mom.”Kids need to understand that they are valued simply because they are who they are, not for what they do.

“Clearing the table (sweeping the porch, putting out the trash) makes a real difference. I appreciate your contribution.”Kids need to understand that what they do makes a difference, that the adults notice, and that pitching in is a good part of family life.

“This is one clean porch, mister!”“You mowed the lawn right up to the edge. Way to go! I’m so glad you take this job so seriously–it shows.”Doing a job at a high standard is always worth noting. Use iMOM’s free printable chore habit tracker to help your kids grow in responsibility.

“Your willingness to help makes me happy! Now, we need to take a look at how you can get the trash to the curb without leaving a trail!”Compliments can be an important part of our role as teachers.

“Wow! That’s a huge leap forward for you there in math, pal.”“Awesome! I’m not at all surprised after you worked so hard.”A well-placed compliment can keep a positive ball rolling.

We don’t want to force our kids into being clones of us. “When putting together an outfit, you certainly have some flair!”“I can tell that you put a lot of thought into the way you look.”“I’ve never seen a table set quite like that before–you have an amazing imagination!”It’s not useful to limit compliments to the narrow range of our own taste.

“Son, the improvement you’re showing is commendable. Thanks for trying.”Waiting for perfection before we’re willing to dish out a compliment is inefficient, may dampen enthusiasm, and does little to help the process of growth.

But only do this when you can do it honestly! “Your friends are the greatest!”“That Jess is such a good kid.”“You know, it gives me a lot of confidence to know you use common sense in choosing your friends.â€

Here are 5 Things to Say to Your Kids Every Day and 5 Things Not to Say to Your Kids.

Tell us! How do you normally compliment your kids?

This article originally appeared on iMOM.com and reflects their mission and beliefs.