Quote from Ellen Galinsky's Latest book "Mind in the Making: The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs"

"Instead of praising children’s personalities (“you are so smart” or “athletic”), praise their efforts or strategies (“you worked hard to find the right piece of the puzzle”).  Studies have found that this kind of praise encourages children to challenge themselves, while the more global forms of praise actually have the opposite effect, dampening a child’s initiative and interest in learning."

To learn more please visit Ellen's site at:
http://mindinthemaking.org/article/tips_for_parents/