What kind of feedback should a teacher provide a child who has successfully used positive communication strategies?

The most effective feedback for a child who has successfully used positive communication strategies is to acknowledge the child's efforts without any conditions. This approach reinforces the behavior by affirming the child's ability to communicate positively, which builds their confidence and encourages them to continue using these strategies.

Unconditional acknowledgment helps the child understand that their ability to communicate effectively is valued and appreciated, fostering a positive learning environment. It emphasizes the process rather than just the end result, which is crucial for developing lifelong communication skills. When children feel recognized for their efforts, they are more likely to repeat those successful strategies in the future.

Other options, while they may seem motivating, are less effective in the context of developing intrinsic motivation and self-efficacy. For instance, promising external rewards can shift the child's focus away from the intrinsic value of positive communication. Similarly, focusing solely on unmet goals can undermine the child's achievements by overlooking what they have done well. Expressing personal emotions about the child's behavior might convey the teacher's feelings, but it does not provide the constructive feedback that helps the child internalize their success and understand how to continue improving.