No praising?

[5 Little Monkeys]

Something like you described is a good example!! When children first start with us or are at the age of being taught to put toys away, we will obviously praise a lot because they are still learning what is expected of them and praise is a motivator. As time goes on, and/or they get older, we will start to decrease praising every single time they do this action, as it just something that will become an expectation of them when they are done with something. Perhaps that is what mom has in mind when she asks too praise less?

From what you said in your praise, I assume the child is older? Maybe mom already expects cleaning up toys and doesn't feel the extra praise is needed anymore?

[Lee-Bee]

Your example of praise sounds pretty darn good to me! Maybe explain to mom that you are not only praising her child when she takes the initiative to do something on her own but you are using it as a teaching tool for the other children. The other children hear what is said to their friends and when they hear you give such praise to a child they are more likely to do the same...and this is indeed the point of group care!

There is also a good chance you are acting a bit out of character when a parent sticks around so long at drop off! It puts you in the spot light and it is not uncommon to get a tad nervous and end up 'over selling' yourself!!