Nice job on cleaning your room Jack, but I wish you would start remembering to dust after everything is picked up. 

What was meant to be a compliment from you can feel like discouragement to your child. When we use the word “but,” we focus on what is not right instead of their progress. Momentary pride is dashed. Next time you are tempted to do this, try using the encouraging word “and” instead of “but.”

Nice job on cleaning your room Jack and because you did what I asked, let me help you finish the job by using that dust rag.