Don't wait for a special occasion. Parents should not wait until their children do something extraordinary to offer praise. When parents praise their children, it is often a good idea to tell them exactly why they are being praised. In addition to verbal praise, parents should offer a lot of physical attention. For example, hugs, smiles, kisses, pats on the back, or winks.
Young children respond especially well to physical affection.
It is important to give children positive feedback immediately. Parents shouldn't wait until sometime after the good behavior occurs to offer the praise. Avoid backhanded compliments. It is important to avoid using backhanded compliments. Third-handed compliments can be very effective.