Good work!  Wow!  That’s great!

Praise can be a powerful tool to increase desired behavior.  However, what does, “Great job” really mean? 

TIP: Avoid generic kudos such as “good job.” (Click here for ideas on how to update your praise repertoire.)

These phrases are wonderful to hear, but what do they really mean?  Good work doing what??!! 

Instead try behavior specific praise statements like, “Wow, I really like the way you just did…” or “Great job with …” 

Use verbal reinforcement that calls out what your student did well, so they understand what behavior to repeat.

When delivered IMMEDIATELY following a positive behavior, its effects are even greater. When you provide specific acknowledgement of behavior immediately following a desired behavior, you should see that positive behavior increase over time.