I’ve been trying to encourage my kids to feel good about their everyday accomplishments, but I’m not sure I’m doing it right. Any tips on how to celebrate the little things without going overboard? What works for you guys at home? I’m looking for simple ideas that won’t make a big fuss but still show them their efforts matter.
In our house, we started a ‘Good News Jar’. It’s just a big glass jar in the kitchen where we drop in little notes about good things that happen. My kids were skeptical at first, but they got into it.
We started small - maybe a note about finishing homework or helping with dinner. On Sundays, we’d read them together. It was low-key, but the kids loved hearing their accomplishments read out loud.
As they got older, they started writing their own notes. Sometimes it was big stuff, but often it was little things like remembering to take out the trash without being asked.
The jar helped them notice the small wins in their day. It wasn’t about rewards, just acknowledging the good stuff. Seeing that jar fill up week after week really boosted their confidence. 
Every family is different, but for us, this simple jar made a big difference in how the kids saw their everyday achievements.
I’ve been wondering about this too! My 5-year-old gets excited when they complete a task, but I’m not always sure how to react. Sometimes I give a high five or say ‘great job,’ but is that enough?
I tried making a sticker chart for completed chores, and my kid loves putting the stickers on. But I worry if that’s creating the right motivation.
What do other parents do for daily stuff like cleaning up toys or helping set the table? Do you have any special phrases or gestures you use? I’m curious how others handle this without making it a big production every time.
We put a whiteboard in the kitchen. Kids write down what they did each day. It’s low-key but they like seeing their list grow.
Friday night, we read it over during dinner. No big rewards, just recognition. Works for us so far.
In our home, we’ve found a simple chart on the fridge works wonders. The kids get to pick a small star sticker for tasks like making their bed or helping with dishes. It’s not about perfection, just effort.
At the end of the week, we look at the chart together. The kids feel proud seeing all they’ve done. Sometimes we do a special dessert or extra screen time as a family to celebrate.
What I like is how it’s made them more aware of their contributions. They’ll point out when they’ve done something helpful, even if it’s not on the chart. It’s sweet to see them take pride in being part of the family team.
Just keep it light and fun. The goal is for them to feel good about pitching in, not to create pressure.
In our house, we’ve got a fun little ritual. Every evening at dinner, we go around the table and share one small win from the day. It could be anything - finishing homework early, remembering to feed the fish, or helping a sibling.
My kid started out shy, but now looks forward to it. It’s cool to see how they’ve become more aware of their daily accomplishments. Nothing fancy, just a moment to pause and appreciate the little things. It’s amazing how such a simple practice can boost their confidence over time.