Frequent Descriptive Praise (E2.1.7)

This video shows how teachers can provide children with descriptive praise to reinforce positive behavior and accomplishments.

In this exemplar video, a teacher is engaging in floor play with an infant. Notice how the teacher narrates the child’s actions and encourages their accomplishments –an example of providing frequent descriptive praise to reinforce positive behavior, efforts, interests, and accomplishments.

In this exemplar video, the teacher says, ‘Thank you for being a helper. I love the way you are cleaning up!’ Notice how the teacher is using descriptive praise to encourage positive behavior and support the child’s efforts–an example of providing frequent descriptive praise to reinforce positive behavior, efforts, interests, and accomplishments.

In this exemplar video, a teacher follows the toddler’s cues during the activity. Notice how the teacher allows time for the child to imitate actions and uses descriptive praise to reinforce effort and accomplishments (e.g., “Good job, you did it! You put them together”)—an example of Responsive Interactions & Guidance.

In this exemplar video, the teacher demonstrates responsive interactions by using descriptive praise to reinforce a child’s positive communication and social behavior. When a child expresses a need during play, the teacher responds by saying, “You want the see‑saw. Thank you for using your words.” By naming both the child’s intent and the positive behavior, the teacher acknowledges the child’s effort to communicate appropriately. This specific, affirming feedback, paired with a calm tone and close attention, supports the child’s sense of security and reinforces effective communication skills during the interaction.