In the process of children's education, praise and criticism are an indispensable part. From a brain science perspective, these feedback modalities have a profound impact on a child's cognitive and emotional development. When a child is praised, the brain releases large amounts of dopamine, a pleasurable and satisfying neurotransmitter. Praise can stimulate children's motivation and self-confidence, enhance their motivation and focus, and thus promote learning and growth.
2. The meaning and limitations of praise
However, pure "you are great" and "very good" and other forms of praise, although they can bring temporary happiness and satisfaction to children, do not provide specific information and guidance. This superficial praise may make children become overly dependent on the evaluation of others and unwilling to accept challenges and face difficulties. In addition, if children accept excessive false praise, they may feel confused and lost in the face of failures and setbacks, unable to face reality correctly and make improvements.
3. The child's psychological reaction to criticism
In contrast, criticism in a way that may trigger negative emotions and resistance in children. When a child is criticized, the brain releases a hormone called cortisol, which can cause stress and restlessness. Children may feel denied and hurt, or even have low self-esteem and self-doubt. Therefore, when criticizing children, parents and educators need to pay attention to the manner and tone to avoid excessive accusations and hurting children's self-esteem.
By understanding children's psychological reactions to criticism, we can implement educational methods more rationally and make them more effective. In the next step, we will explore the correct way and effect of criticism, as well as a circular model to help children really learn and recognize.
4. The correct way and effect of criticism
When criticizing, we should pay attention to the following aspects to ensure its effectiveness and positive impact. First of all, criticism should be specific and clear, not just criticize the child's behavior in general. Specific criticism can help children better understand what they have done wrong and learn from it. Second, criticism should focus on problem solving and improvement, rather than simply blaming and punishing. Parents and educators should provide guidance and advice to help children find solutions to problems and encourage them to think positively and find solutions.
In addition, the tone and mood when criticizing are also very important. Overly harsh and cold criticism can trigger a child's rebellious mentality, making them negative and slack. Conversely, gentle, understanding, and loving criticism can help children build a positive attitude toward learning and enhance their self-confidence and self-discipline.
5. Four stages of cyclical mode: praise, guidance, feedback, adjustment
In order for children to really learn and recognize, we can adopt a circular model for education. First of all, we should encourage children's efforts and achievements through praise. Praise not only motivates children, but also boosts their self-confidence and motivation. Next, we need to provide specific guidance and education so that children know how to improve and develop further. This includes giving them skills and strategies to help them overcome difficulties and improve their abilities.
Then, after the child has implemented the improvement measures, we should give timely feedback. Feedback should be specific, detailed, and provide actionable suggestions that both acknowledge your child's progress and point out areas for improvement. Finally, based on the results of the feedback and the actual situation of the child, we need to adjust the way and method of education. This may include adjusting strategies, providing more support and resources, or changing goals and expectations to ensure that the child's learning and growth continues and develops positively.
6. Educational methods for children to really learn and recognize
In order for children to really learn and recognize, we can adopt the following educational methods. First, encourage children to learn from their mistakes. Mistakes are opportunities for growth, and we can help children recognize the causes and consequences of mistakes and lead them to think about how to avoid the same mistakes. Second, cultivate children's self-reflection and self-evaluation skills. By asking questions, listening, and facilitating discussion, we can help children think about their own actions and decisions, and find directions for improvement and development.
In addition, it is essential to establish a good relationship of communication and trust. Parents and educators should establish a genuine dialogue with their children, listen to their ideas and concerns, and understand their needs and difficulties. At the same time, give timely positive feedback and encouragement to help them build a positive self-image and sense of self-worth.
Finally, we should also provide appropriate support and resources to help children achieve their goals and potential. This may include providing learning materials and environments, seeking professional coaching and guidance, and providing children with good role models and role models.
In short, praise and criticism are indispensable links in the process of children's education. By understanding the impact of these feedback methods from the perspective of brain science, we can implement educational methods more scientifically and effectively. Through the right way of criticism and praise, as well as a circular education model, we can help children really learn and recognize, and develop their self-confidence, motivation and learning ability.