E12: Getting Out of the Praise Loop

Carla Ward is an educator, speaker, and host of The Everything ECE Podcast. With over 20 years of experience in early childhood education, she empowers educators to teach with intention, curiosity, and confidence. As the founder of The ECE Latte Lounge, Carla is dedicated to helping educators reconnect with their purpose and elevate the profession through reflective, play-based practice and authentic connection.

In this episode, we explore how well-meaning praise can unintentionally create dependency and limit children’s intrinsic motivation. Carla unpacks the difference between praise and encouragement, how to shift our language to build genuine confidence, and why fostering self-reflection matters more than constant approval. Walk away with practical ways to help children feel proud of who they are, not just what they do.