Tool 01 · Phrase · Free
Make Praise Specific
You noticed a useful action, a thoughtful choice, or progress on something difficult.
Try this
“You tried another way when the first one didn't work.”
How to use it
Describe something your child can recognize in their own actions. You can notice effort, a useful idea, care for someone else, or a way they solved a problem.
- Choose one thing you actually saw or heard.
- Name the action and, if useful, what it helped with.
- Leave a pause. Add a question only if your child wants to talk about it.
What it can sound like
These are illustrative examples. Adjust the words to your family and your child's needs.
“You put the puzzle pieces into groups. That helped you find the corners.”
“You checked the information before sharing it. That was a careful choice.”
Watch out for
Avoid comparisons, broad labels such as 'genius,' and a request hidden after the compliment.
If it doesn't fit this moment
“Fair enough. I just wanted you to know what I noticed.” Then move on.
Free template
A specific observation
Use the prompts for your own preparation. Entries stay in this tab and are not saved or sent to BondSeed. Download your text before leaving the page.
Go a little deeper
Reference reading
These public references support relevant communication principles. They do not validate this tool as an assessment or a tested script.