Encouragement: What does it mean and how is it done?

by Dr. Jane Nelsen

Rudolf Dreikurs taught, “A child needs encouragement like a plant needs water.” In other words, encouragement is essential. Children may not die without encouragement, but they certainly wither.

Since encouragement is so essential, it’s helpful for parents and teachers to know exactly what encouragement means and how to use it. Let’s start with what encouragement is not.