Nonverbal cues like facial expressions and posture will alert the students that your praise is not sincere. The praise will not be effective if the student perceives that it is not sincere. Smiles communicate that the praise given is genuine. Be consistent when praising the target. It is important to be consistent with the behaviors that you praise.
Students learn more quickly when they are always praised for desirable behaviors.
Consistency between paraeducators and teachers is important in order to avoid confusion about behavioral expectations. Praise should be developmentally appropriate. Statements to younger or developmentally delayed students should be in language that is at their level so they clearly understand what behavior is seen as appropriate. Why Praise Works Praise is readily available as reinforcement for positive behaviors. Praise can be administered immediately after the desired behavior.