Yes I read this some time ago. I try to be careful to praise specific things...I emphasize making smart choices rather than being smart. I stress perseverance the most as well as staying on task. I also don't emphasize what grade level he is working on. DS had developed issues of not trying hard things b/c in school he was always the best, the smartest and the other kids told him so. When we started HSing, I challenged him and for 3 months he completely shut down. The first quarter of HSing was easy as I figured out what level he was on...then when things got a bit challenging, it was a huge blow to his ego. Now with no one to compare himself to, I think things are better.
