Praise your child for desirable behavior when you see it.

Research has shown that we respond better to praise than criticism. It is a proven fact; it takes 3 praises to negate the impact of 1 critical statement. People respond best when they receive an average of 6 praises, so praise your child loudly and often. Statements such as “Don’t do that again.” And “Why did you do that?” have the potential to be perceived as critical and shaming. Catch your child being good! Then tell them you saw it. “I love the way you…” and “Thank you for…” are powerful phrases. Kids will go out of their way to repeat the desirable behavior to receive more of your positive attention.