That's Terrific!

Target Words

excellent, exceptional, extraordinary, fantastic, outstanding, perfect, super, superb, stupendous, terrific, unique

Materials

none

Directions

1. Giving sincere compliments is a great way to build your child's self-esteem. It is best to make your compliments specific. Tell your child exactly why you think his or her work or behavior is so terrific. For example, you might say: "Those mud pies are spectacular. Each one is unique! I really like the way you used pebbles as decorations. You did a fantastic job."
2. You can also have fun playing around with elaborate compliments. For example, you might say, "We are extraordinary bed makers! Just look at this bed! Excellent corners. The plump pillows are outstanding. I have never seen a more perfectly-made bed."

Extension

Listen for other words (on television, in books, in conversations) that mean "really, really good," and use them in conversations with your child. Feel free to be dramatic and silly! "I think that sounds fabulous, amazing, superb..."

Related Books

• Meet Danitra Brown by Nikki Grimes
  In a series of poems, a young girl introduces us to her best friend—the most splendiferous girl in town!
• Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman
  Grace has an amazing imagination and proves she can be an amazing Peter Pan in the class play.
• What Can You Do? A Book About Discovering What You Do Well by Shelly Rotner
  Color photographs and simple text show children excelling at physical, mental, artistic, and musical activities.