What is PRIDE in PCIT?
PRIDE is an acronym for a set of parenting skills used during Child-Directed Interaction (CDI), a core part of Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). These skills help strengthen the parent-child relationship, increase positive behaviors, and reduce disruptive behaviors through play.
The CDI portion of PCIT is designed to foster a strong attachment between the parent and child. When a child receives consistent, daily, highly focused, positive attention from their parent(s) they feel more grounded, safe, and secure and thus less likely to act out to seek attention. It is very important that both parents do CDI with the child whenever possible.
The PRIDE Skills
P – Praise
- Give labeled praise: Name the positive behavior.
- Example: “I love how you’re stacking those blocks so carefully!”
- Why: Builds self-esteem and encourages good behavior.
R – Reflection
- Repeat or paraphrase what your child says.
- Example: Child says, “I made a castle!” You say, “You made a castle!”
- Why: Shows you’re listening and promotes communication.
I – Imitation
- Copy your child’s play in a positive way.
- Example: If they draw a star, you draw one too.
- Why: Shows approval and strengthens connection.
D – Description
- Describe your child’s actions out loud.
- Example: “You’re coloring the sky blue.”
- Why: Increases focus and builds vocabulary.
E – Enjoyment
- Show enthusiasm, smile, and have fun!
- Example: Laughing, clapping, using a warm voice.
- Why: Creates positive experiences and bonding.
Goals of PRIDE Skills
- Deepen the parent-child bond
- Support self-regulation and communication
- Reinforce positive behavior
What to Avoid During CDI
- Commands: “Put that here.”
- Questions: “What’s that?”
- Criticism: “Don’t do it like that.”
Focus only on following your child’s lead and using PRIDE skills for 5 minutes a day of special playtime. When you ask questions and/or give commands, shift the control more to the parent rather than letting the child lead the way. It also increases the likelihood of conflict.
Example of PRIDE in Action
Child: “Look, I’m building a rocket!”
- Reflection: “You’re building a rocket!”
- Imitation: Builds a rocket beside the child
- Description: “You put the triangle on top.”
- Praise: “You’re doing such a careful job!”
- Enjoyment: Smile, lean in, use a warm voice
Recommended Videos to Watch
Go to Youtube and type in “PCIT videos”
Suggested Toy Categories:
- Pretend Play
- Construction &Building
- Creating
- Figures
- Sorting toys
Avoid:
Electronics or screens
Board games or competitive games
Toys with one “right” way to use them
Loud, overstimulating toys
Anything too advanced or frustrating
Tips for Daily Practice
Set a timer for 5 minutes
Let your child choose the activity from the list of approved types of toys
Focus entirely on using PRIDE skills
Avoid commands, questions, and criticisms during CDI
Consider picking a time you can be consistent with.
Your Daily Challenge:
- ☑ Praise at least 5 times
- ☑ Reflect at least 5 statements
- ☑ Imitate your child’s play once
- ☑ Describe at least 5 actions
- ☑ Show enjoyment throughout
Practicing PRIDE consistently leads to big results in improving cooperation, attention, and your overall relationship with your child. Start small and keep it playful!