The Praise Equation: Specific + Timely + Frequent = Connection That Lasts (Part 1)

What Toddlers Really Hear When You Say “Good Job”

Parenting a toddler can feel like coaching a tiny improv troupe—equal parts unpredictable, expressive, and emotionally raw. Amid the whirlwind, praise becomes more than encouragement. It becomes a compass.

The Power of Labeled Praise

⚠️ The Pitfall: Generic or Unlabeled Praise

Out of habit or exhaustion, many parents default to:

• Saying “Good job!” without naming what was good

• Saving praise for big milestones or dramatic turnarounds

• Avoiding praise for expected behaviors like sharing or listening

The result? Toddlers may not know what behavior to repeat. Praise becomes vague, and connection can get lost in correction.

🔄 The Shift: Labeled Praise

PCIT encourages labeled praise—naming the specific behavior you want to reinforce. Instead of “Nice work,” try:

“You waited your turn so patiently.

“I love how you cleaned up your toys without being asked."

“Your brother loves it when you share your toys with him."

🧠 Why It Works

• Helps toddlers understand what they did well

• Builds emotional vocabulary and internal motivation

• Strengthens the parent-child bond through clarity and connection

  
  

🌱 The Reframe

Praise isn’t indulgent—it’s instructive. When we name what’s good, we help our children believe in their capacity to do good again.

Final Thought: Praise isn’t just about approval—it’s about clarity. When we name what’s good, we help our children build a map of who they’re becoming. Specific words shape specific growth.