Recognition of Children’s Achievements

Parents and teachers usually find that children thrive with recognition. We’re so conditioned to warn them away from danger and improper behavior that often we forget to praise and give them encouragement.

When I finished conducting the writing workshop with the 15 youngsters I mentioned in my last post, I gave them certificates of achievement.  It’s usually not possible to do this when I visit schools as an author and to teach workshops simply because of the number of students involved.  (I do try to give out bookmarks instead.)

Image: iStock

However, because there were only 15 young writers, I decided handing out certificates at the end of the second session would be fun for them and me…and their moms.  So I had my husband design and print colorful certificates.

One little 5-year old came with her mom and brothers.  She was so pleased she was allowed to sit at the table and color while the others wrote.  I had Jim make a special certificate for her.

Praise, special recognition and encouragement go a long way toward helping youngsters (and adults) achieve.