Praises.

On Sunday, 7th June 2009, one of the greatest musician, singer and song-writer, Kenny Rankins, died of lung cancer at the age of 69.

He was still actively involved in his passion of recording songs this year. There is a part written by Associated Press writer, John Rogers, which interested me as a parent and teacher.

According to John Rogers, “Rankin, who signed with Decca Records while still in his teens, once said his music career really began in the fourth grade when he sang "O Holy Night" in a school Christmas play and his teacher walked up to him afterward, patted him on the head and said, "Kenneth, that was lovely." "She set me on the path in music that I find myself on today," he said.”

The man who was much respected by fellow musicians was set on the path to songs, recordings and song-writing by the praise and appreciation of a teacher.

Do we realise the feelings of a child being praise and patted lovingly on the head? Praise and a pat does not need money to give but they are invaluable; priceless! It’s such beautiful actions that bring a glow to the hearts of the receivers. And the receiver may remember the giver for the rest of his/her life.

Words are powerful tools in aiding a youngster towards his/her future. History has proven time and again, that children who reach successfully their goals in life could have been encouraged towards them through such appreciation and praise. And praise and appreciation are even more potent if they are voiced by beloved parents, relatives or close friends. Such praises may not necessarily be direct. It could be the grandmother’s admiration for her grandchild’s abilities. It could be the proud grandpa’s prediction of greatness of his grandchild.

So long as that grandchild could understand the accolades of the grandparents, it raises his/her self-esteem and confidence; self-esteem and confidence which is essential in boosting his ego to stimulate the imagination and belief which enables the child to visualise himself or herself achieving whatever innate capabilities or talent.

Many a time, encouraging words are all that is needed to have children want to learn, to improve and to develop in the right direction. Believe in their ability to achieve all that is good for them and children will prove us right.

Isn’t that easy to do? So what is preventing us from doing it every day of our lives?