Gentle encouragement practice
6–12 monthsEmotional WellbeingNo materials needed
During activities like reaching for toys or attempting to sit, use encouraging phrases in a warm tone. Say "You're trying so hard" or "Almost there" as your child works toward a goal. When they succeed, acknowledge it with a genuine smile and simple praise.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
During activities like reaching for toys or attempting to sit, use encouraging phrases in a warm tone. Say "You're trying so hard" or "Almost there" as your child works toward a goal. When they succeed, acknowledge it with a genuine smile and simple praise.
Why It Works
Encouraging effort teaches infants that persistence leads to positive outcomes, forming the basis for optimistic thinking patterns. When children learn to view challenges as opportunities through supportive encouragement, they develop resilience and expect good results from their efforts. Research demonstrates that learned optimism through focus on effort and progress significantly improves motivation and perseverance (Seligman, M. E. P., Ernst, R. M., Gillham, J., Reivich, K., & Linkins, M. (2009). Positive education: Positive psychology and classroom interventions. Oxford Review of Education, 35(3), 293-311.).
Tips for Parents
Focus your words on effort rather than only outcomes. This builds persistence and positive expectations.
Keep your tone calm and supportive. Gentle encouragement works better than loud excitement for this age.
Stay physically close during challenging moments. Your presence provides security while they learn.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionRepetition and Routine
Loved this activity? Let us do the planning for you.
Imprint personalizes every activity to your child — their interests, their stage, the traits they're building — so playtime is more fun and every moment counts.
Science-backed. Private by design. No spam.