WORDS OF PRAISE

2. Praising A Child’s Character
To counterbalance our celebrity culture, which defines success in terms of looks, fame or income, it is important to look out for the positive qualities of each child’s character.

In doing so, we encourage the values we care about most. We might praise them for their generosity in sharing their possessions, for playing nicely with a friend, for looking after a sibling, or for their ability to cope in a difficult situation. One mother noticed how good her six-year-old son was at making friends with lonely children in the playground. She commended him and then asked him why he did it. He replied, “They need my help”. Her praise reinforced his kindness. Not only will our children thrive on this sort of encouragement, but they will take on the role of being encouragers themselves.

Q. Think of three characteristics or attributes in each of your children that you would like to praise this week.

PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, help us parents to be conscious of noting the character traits which are good and need praise from us and, do it regularly. In Jesus’ name, amen.