One of America's best authors said that had a certain teacher NOT praised his early work he "would not have become a writer." He never considered himself, he claims, "particularly talented."To think of a world without "Everything Is Illuminated" is sad; to think that other great talents don't ever become public works because their 'authors' are not fostered at the right time is downright depressing.Positive feedback is an extraordinarily powerful currency - and it's free, too. The key, however, is to use it correctly for it's an easy one to use incorrectly...Last summer, New York Magazine warned parents with children (specially gifted children) against over-praising. Hearing "This is incredible, sweetie - great job!" means very little if it becomes a common refrain. And no, it doesn't matter if the parent really & truly believes it. It's not about your intention; it's about what your child hears that matter most!What is recommended is to simply provide positive reinforcement by focusing on a particular praise-worthy aspect of the work. For example, with a painting, say something like this: "Hey, I like the way you're using all these different shades of blue. I've not seen that before. Where did you learn to do that?"This way, the kid feels good because they know not only do you actually like it but, also and perhaps more importantly, you're paying attention to them. The kicker her may be that because you've engaged them in a dialogue, they might even feel compelled to respond: hello conversation.I fancy myself a pretty good parent yet find I run the praise faucet far too often. I shall forevermore do my best to dial it down - especially knowing that such care and feeding on my part might possibly help to someday foster something wonderful. In a world where everyone is gifted in some way (and I do believe this) it's up to all of us to encourage more great works; let the praise begin!