What is Behavior-Specific Praise?

Behavior-specific praise tells a child what he should do instead of what he should not do. It describes the desired behavior to the child so that the child is more likely to repeat it in the future. Instead of stating, "Do not stand up" or "Good job" one might state "I like that you are sitting nicely at the table working on your homework all by yourself! Great job" It takes a little practice to use behavior-specific language to praise desired behaviors but once you become accustomed to it, it will become second nature. Increase your teaching opportunities by using behavior-specific praise. Give it a shot!