The role of praise in a child's development is often culturally driven and can be controversial. Does frequent praise help or hinder a child's development? Exploring both sides of the "praise debate" is important to finding a balance that works for your child.

The Praise Debate
Critics argue that praising in abundance can hinder a child's self-esteem and perpetuate a fear of failing. New York Magazine reported that a large percentage of gifted students (those who score in the top 10 percent on aptitude tests) severely underestimated their own abilities because they were used to receiving an abundance of praise. These talented students often lacked confidence to tackle a new problem unless they knew they'd be good at it. 

Similarly, a report from the Brookings Institution's Brown Center found that countries that embrace praising students to boost self-esteem in learning math lag behind countries that do not believe in promoting self-esteem. Studies found that student performance in cultures that didn't value praise actually scored higher than in countries where self-esteem and praise are more valued.

Tips for Praising Appropriately
At Kumon, we believe in the importance of praise in raising self-motivated children. We encourage parents to praise daily progress rather than just praising achievement and to model the skills of perseverance, determination and hard work to show children the value of having these life skills. At some point, your children will become less cooperative and frustrated with their school and Kumon work. This can be especially true if the child does not see the immediate impact of their Kumon studies on their schoolwork. At times like these, a healthy dose of praise, coupled with a clear understanding of the final goal, can help minimize your child's anxiety and get him/her back on track. 

Here are five tips Kumon suggests to create positive praise relationships with your children: