The Power of Praise: Encouraging Effort Over Results

In a world increasingly focused on outcomes—grades, trophies, rankings—it’s easy to overlook the true value of the learning journey itself. However, research and real-life experience alike show that praising effort over results can have a powerful and lasting impact on a child’s motivation, confidence, and resilience. Let’s explore why effort-based praise matters and how parents and educators can put it into practice, inspired by the teachings of this private school in Derby.

Why Praising Effort Matters

Praising effort instead of fixed traits like intelligence or talent encourages a growth mindset—the belief that abilities can develop through dedication and hard work. Children who are praised for their effort are more likely to persevere through challenges, take risks, and view mistakes as opportunities to learn rather than reasons to give up.

This kind of praise also reinforces the idea that success comes from trying, not from being “naturally good” at something. When children understand that their actions and choices lead to improvement, they develop a stronger sense of control over their own progress.

The Risks of Outcome-Based Praise

It’s tempting to say things like “You’re so clever!” or “You’re the best!” when a child performs well. While this may seem positive, over time, this type of praise can lead to unintended consequences. Children may begin to fear failure or avoid challenges in order to protect their ‘clever’ label. They might stick to tasks they already know they’re good at, instead of pushing themselves to grow.

Praising only results can also create anxiety. If a child doesn’t achieve a specific result, they might interpret it as a personal failure rather than a chance to reflect and try again.

What Does Effort-Based Praise Look Like?

Effort-based praise is specific, genuine, and focused on what the child did rather than who they are. Instead of “You’re brilliant at maths,” try:

• “I can see you worked really hard on these sums.”

• “It’s great how you kept going even when that was tricky.”

• “You’ve improved so much because you didn’t give up.”

Phrases like these show that hard work, persistence, and problem-solving are valued. They also encourage children to apply those skills to new tasks.

Building Resilience Through Praise

By celebrating the process, not just the outcome, children learn that it’s OK to struggle or fail. In fact, it’s part of how we grow. This builds emotional resilience—a key life skill that supports children well beyond the classroom.

Children who are used to hearing praise for effort are less likely to be discouraged by setbacks. They’re also more willing to try again, experiment, and learn independently.

Praising effort over results helps children become more confident, curious, and capable learners. It shifts the focus from being “the best” to being better than yesterday. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or a carer, your words have power. Use them to encourage the journey, and you’ll help children discover the joy of learning for its own sake

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