Compliments for Change Kids
Learn to notice good things, appreciate people and celebrate what they did. Kind words help people feel seen, valued and encouraged.
Start here · Free
A compliment is kind, honest words that tell someone what you noticed, appreciated or admired. A compliment is never a trick to get something from someone.
For grown-ups: these are the same 3 types we teach adults: Personal, Acknowledgment and Accomplishment. These are the basic three, and they cover everything. Kids just get friendlier names.
The 3 lessons
Notice someone’s effort, kindness, choices or how much they’ve grown. Then tell them what you saw.
“You’re nice.”
“I saw you share your crayons with the new kid. That was really kind.”
Thank someone for something they did, and tell them why it mattered to you.
“Thanks.”
“Thank you for helping me with my spelling words. Now I’m not scared of the test.”
Celebrate something someone worked hard for, learned or finished.
“Cool.”
“You practiced every day, and now you can ride without training wheels. Wow!”
What about “I believe in you”? That’s encouragement. It often grows out of a compliment, and it’s a wonderful thing to say. It just isn’t one of the 3 types.
When someone compliments you
You don’t have to say one back right away. And don’t say “it was nothing.” It was something!
Stay safe
If a compliment ever makes you feel weird or uncomfortable, tell a grown-up you trust. Right away.
The kids’ quiz
Free · Every morning
Every morning: one kind line from Dawn, and one small challenge, like “Today, tell one person what you noticed about them.”
It comes by email. On the app, turn on phone alerts and it comes there too. Kids under 13 sign up with a parent or guardian.
The book
A story about kindness, courage and the magic of making people feel special. By Dawn Weir.
What’s free, and what’s coming
