Quick Strategy: Specific, Labeled Praise
A quick way to reinforce positive behaviors
Specific, Labeled Praise
Want an easy way to encourage positive behaviors in your classroom? Try using specific, labeled praise. It’s a way to reinforce positive behaviors with quick, descriptive feedback.
Here’s why it works:
When you tell children exactly what they did well, they know which behavior you’re noticing and are more likely to do it again. Believe it or not, consistently pointing out a positive behavior is actually more effective than focusing on a behavior you don’t want to see.
STEP-BY-STEP
How To Do It
Look for a positive behavior you want to see more often
For example, keep an eye out for children sharing, waiting patiently, cleaning up, or helping a friend.
When you spot a positive behavior, give your praise right away
This is important because it gives the child immediate feedback about what they're doing well.
Use specific, labeled praise
Instead of saying, "Good job," describe the behavior you noticed. For example, "Thank you for putting the toys in the basket," or, "I noticed you waited for your turn on the slide. Great job."
Try it!
Tomorrow, pick one time of day and look for an opportunity to use specific, labeled praise.
What's Next?
Want to Dive Deeper?
Explore specific, labeled praise in more detail by investigating the strategy of Reinforcement. Learn how to give attention to children’s positive behaviors using praise, recognition, or rewards.
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