Let a child overhear you praising them
Praise reported to a third party is believed in a way that praise delivered directly is not.
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Why it lands
Children discount direct compliments from parents as obligation — you have to say that. Something said to another adult, within earshot and not for their benefit, carries no such discount. It is received as evidence rather than encouragement, which is why the overheard version lands harder and lasts longer than anything said face to face.
How
Say it to someone else while they are in the room and not being addressed: “She sorted the whole thing out herself, I didn't do anything.” Do not look at them while you say it, and do not repeat it to them afterwards.
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