Journal of Early Childhood Research, Ahead of Print.
This study probed praising among preschoolers in natural settings and investigated their developmental changes. In study 1, teachers in preprimary educational facilities answered queries about the frequency and described episodes of praising among preschoolers. The results indicated that children approximately 3-year-old commonly praised friends, primarily in situations of playing. In study 2, teachers responded to questions on the aspects and circumstances of praising among preschoolers. The findings revealed the developmental trend that 5-year- old preschoolers praised the processes used by their friends more than 3-year-old children. Five-year-old preschoolers also praised their friends more than 3-year-old children in competitive team game situations.