Compliments

Child development / Drama games / Compliments

Compliments is a thoughtful speaking activity where children practice recognising positive qualities in others and sharing them out loud.

By giving and receiving compliments, they develop confidence, kindness, listening skills and positive communication.

How to play

1. Sit together

Find a comfortable place to sit with your child.

2. Discuss compliments

Explain what a compliment is and why kind words can make people feel happy and valued.

3. Model examples

Give simple examples such as:

"Your hair looks lovely today."
"You are very helpful."
"You are funny."

4. Choose someone

Ask your child to think of someone they would like to compliment. This could be you, another family member, a friend or someone they know.

5. Share compliments

Take turns saying your compliments clearly and kindly.

6. Encourage variety

Remind your child that compliments do not only have to be about appearance.

They can also praise:

Kindness
Creativity
Helpfulness
Confidence
Friendship

What it teaches

Kindness and empathy
Confidence speaking aloud
Positive communication
Listening skills
Social awareness
Celebrating others

Variations to try

Take turns - Give each other compliments and see how many different positive qualities you can think of.
Family compliments - Choose different family members and think of something kind to say about each one.
Guess who - Describe someone using positive qualities and see if your child can guess who you mean.

Principal's notes

This activity can create a wonderfully supportive atmosphere within the class. Encourage children to listen carefully and receive compliments graciously. Modelling thoughtful compliments beforehand helps children move beyond very simple responses.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.