John’s phone sat on his desk, surrounded by mugs, donut halves, tissue paper, and permanent marker pens. A photo of a smiling toddler was displayed as the wallpaper.
John had remarried last year and suddenly become a stepfather to a two-year-old boy named Billy. His new wife, Sarah, had also been through a divorce and had custody of Billy.
John was still getting used to being a father. He loved Billy, but he found it challenging to deal with the toddler’s tantrums and demands. He also felt guilty that he couldn’t be a better father to Billy, given his own history of violence.
One day, John was at work when he received a call from Sarah. Billy was sick and needed to be picked up from daycare. John rushed to pick up Billy, but he was already starting to feel stressed. He didn’t know how to handle a sick child.
When John arrived at daycare, he found Billy sitting in the nurse’s office, looking pale and miserable. John scooped Billy up in his arms and held him close. Billy started to cry.
“It’s okay, Billy,” John said. “I’m here.”
John took Billy home and put him to bed. He sat beside Billy’s bed for a long time, watching him sleep. He felt a surge of love for his stepson. He vowed to be a better father to Billy, no matter what.
The next morning, Billy woke up feeling much better. He played in the living room while John made him breakfast. John was watching Billy play when he noticed that Billy was building a tower with blocks. He was stacking the blocks carefully and precisely.
“Wow, Billy,” John said. “That’s a great tower!”
Billy smiled and looked up at John.
“Thanks, Daddy,” he said.
John’s heart melted. He realized that Billy was teaching him how to be a father. Billy was showing him that even small acts of kindness and praise can make a big difference.
John decided to take Billy to the park that day. They played on the swings and the slide. John even pushed Billy on the baby carousel. They had so much fun together.
At the end of the day, John put Billy to bed. He kissed Billy on the forehead and said, “I love you, Billy.”
“I love you too, Daddy,” Billy said.
John went to bed that night feeling happy and fulfilled. He knew that he was finally becoming the father that Billy deserved.
Praising Good Behavior
John’s praise of Billy for building the tower was an example of effective praise. It was specific, genuine, and highlighted the positive aspects of Billy’s behavior. John’s praise made Billy feel good about himself and encouraged him to continue building towers.
Praise is an important tool for parents. It can help to reinforce positive behaviors and encourage children to develop their skills and talents. When parents praise their children, they are also showing them that they are loved and valued.
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