How can I use praise to improve focus in high school?

Key Takeaways

Audience Spotlight: Neurodivergent Learners and the Power of Praise

Neurodivergent high school students, such as those with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or other learning differences, often face unique challenges with focus and attention. Many parents notice their children’s strengths in creativity, problem-solving, and persistence, but also see how distractions, overwhelm, or frustration can disrupt learning. For these students, using praise to improve focus in high school is not just about handing out compliments—it is about reinforcing effort, celebrating progress, and showing that you see and appreciate your child’s hard work, even on the tough days.

What Does Praise Do for Focus?

Praise is more than positive words. When used intentionally, it tells your child exactly what they are doing well. This builds motivation and signals that their efforts are noticed and valued. Experts in child development note that targeted praise helps strengthen neural pathways linked to self-regulation and attention, especially in neurodivergent teens. Many teachers and parents report that when students receive regular, authentic praise for their focus—even in small bursts—they are more likely to keep trying during challenging lessons or homework.

Everyday Scenarios: How Praise Supports High School Focus

Imagine your child is working on a long essay. You notice they have spent ten focused minutes drafting their thesis. Instead of a generic “Good job,” you might say, “I see how you stayed focused on your outline and kept writing, even when it got tricky. That shows real determination.” This approach to using praise to improve focus in high school gives your child direct feedback about their effort, not just the outcome.

Or, during a study session, your teen may get distracted but returns to the task after a gentle reminder. Pointing out this positive shift—“You brought your attention back and finished that math problem. That is impressive focus”—helps your child connect their actions to praise, reinforcing self-awareness and persistence.

Positive Reinforcement Strategies for High School Confidence

Building confidence in high school often requires more than encouragement. Positive reinforcement is a technique where desirable behaviors are followed by rewarding consequences—such as praise, recognition, or privileges—to increase the likelihood they will happen again. For neurodivergent learners, who might struggle with executive function or motivation, this strategy can be especially impactful.

• Be specific: Point out exactly what your child did right. Instead of “You did great,” try, “I noticed how you organized your notes and asked for help when you needed it.”
• Be timely: Give praise as soon as you notice the behavior. Immediate feedback helps the brain connect the action with the positive response.
• Focus on effort, not just results: Praise persistence, strategies, or self-advocacy rather than only high grades or finished projects.
• Make praise personal: Link your words to your child’s goals or interests, such as, “I know science is tough for you, but you stayed with it today.”

By using praise to improve focus in high school, you also build your child’s self-esteem and help them see challenges as opportunities to grow.

How Can I Use Praise to Improve Focus in High School?

Many parents wonder how to put these ideas into practice, especially when their child is struggling or seems unmotivated. Here are practical steps for using praise to improve focus in high school:

• Watch for progress, not just perfection. If your child sits down to study for fifteen minutes without checking their phone, acknowledge it: “You stayed with your reading for the whole timer. That is a big step.”
• Create a praise-rich environment at home. Make positive feedback part of daily routines, whether during homework, chores, or conversations.
• Balance praise with support. If your child gets off track, use gentle reminders and then praise their effort when they refocus.
• Collaborate with teachers. Many teachers use similar strategies in the classroom. Sharing what works at home can help your child receive consistent encouragement across settings.

If you are looking for more strategies, visit our focus and attention resources page.

High School and Positive Reinforcement Strategies: What Works Best?

For high schoolers, especially those with neurodivergent profiles, the type of praise and reinforcement you use matters. Adolescents crave independence and may be sensitive to anything that feels “babyish” or insincere. Consider these tips for making your praise effective and age-appropriate:

• Use private praise when needed. Some teens feel embarrassed by public recognition. A quiet word or note can be powerful.
• Allow your teen to help set goals. When students are involved in defining what “focus” looks like for them, praise feels more meaningful.
• Connect praise to privileges or choices. For example, “Because you finished your homework before dinner, you can choose our movie tonight.”
• Encourage self-praise. Help your child recognize their own successes by asking, “What are you proud of from today’s study session?”

By adapting positive reinforcement strategies to your child’s developmental stage, you are more likely to see lasting changes in focus and motivation.

Common Parent Questions: Is Praise Enough?

“My teen ignores my praise or rolls their eyes. Is it even helping?”

This is a common concern. Teens may seem dismissive, but research shows that positive feedback still registers and shapes behavior over time. It may help to ask your child how they prefer to receive praise, or to mix verbal praise with other forms of recognition.

“How do I avoid over-praising or making my child dependent on compliments?”

Balance is key. Use praise for specific, genuine efforts and gradually help your child internalize their own sense of accomplishment. Encouraging self-reflection and acknowledging setbacks as learning opportunities also support independence.

Combining Praise with Other Focus Tools

Praise is most effective when paired with other focus strategies. Encourage the use of planners, checklists, or study routines. For example, after your child completes a section of their planner, praise the planning process: “You broke down your assignments into smaller steps. That is great organization.” You can also explore more support on executive function skills for high schoolers.

Remember, using praise to improve focus in high school does not replace other supports, such as accommodations or tutoring. It works best as part of a holistic approach to learning.

Boost Attention with Praise Strategies: What Does Research Say?

Studies suggest that positive reinforcement, including praise, can help boost attention with praise strategies when tailored to the individual. For neurodivergent learners, these strategies help reduce anxiety, increase classroom engagement, and foster resilience. While praise alone cannot eliminate all attention challenges, it is a powerful tool for building momentum and self-confidence.

Definitions

Positive reinforcement: A technique where desirable behaviors are followed by a reward (such as praise) to increase the likelihood that the behavior will recur.

Focus: The ability to direct and sustain attention on a task or activity, even when distractions are present.

Related Resources

• Are Our Children Overpraised – Child Mind Institute
• 6 Ways to Praise Your Children – Dayton Children’s
• How to Praise and Catch Kids Being Good – Boys Town

Tutoring Support

K12 Tutoring understands the unique strengths and needs of neurodivergent high school students. Our tutors work with families to create personalized plans that combine praise, skill-building, and academic support. If you are seeking more guidance on using praise to improve focus in high school, or want tailored strategies for your child, our team is here to help every step of the way.

Trust & Transparency Statement

Last reviewed: October 2025
This article was prepared by the K12 Tutoring education team, dedicated to helping students succeed with personalized learning support and expert guidance. K12 Tutoring content is reviewed periodically by education specialists to reflect current best practices and family feedback. Have ideas or success stories to share? Email us at [email protected].