DS is 11 months and I know he clearly understands the word, 'No'. I feel I am saying it to him over and over again about 50 times a day. He is getting super adventurous now, playing with power points and getting into cupboards , as well as doing new and exciting things everyday.

I would love to hear from other Mums how they 'praise' good behaviours and reprimand 'bad' behaviour. I don't want to be constantly saying no or telling him that he is a 'good' boy for fear of him looking for reassurance from me that he is doing the right thing, or feel the need to impress DH and I. This seems to be important in my mind, as heis like a sponge at the moment and I feel I am able to teach him things like this now.

Any input would be appreciated.

Well with DS I found having the house or areas he plays as baby proofed as possible helps. By having it so that it doesn't matter if he gets into someting (plastics cupboard) or so there is no way he can get into it, I wasn't telling him no all the time. They never learn at that age and will continue to do something tempting no matter how many times you repeat yourself. Making things safer or putting stuff you don't want him touching out of reach is the easiest way IMO. I'm sure you have your house babyproofed but sometimes it's best to 'let go' a bit and have areas that they can explore even if it makes a bit of a mess smile

at this age you can't expect them to respond the way you'd expect an older child or adult too. Distraction is your friend. Try to use a word other than 'no' too...for example...your baby boy is turning the nobs on daddy's prized stereo system..you say "baby, hands away!" he won't listen or take them away but he may acknowledge you at best!!! so you physically remove him and take him to a place he's allowed....next time he's at the spot you told him no...you say...."mummy said no touching...hands away" use a firm tone and shake your head and remove him again. won't take long till he gets it. they understand 'no' but it's better to tell them what you want..ie hands away, no touching.

to praise him...praise the behaviour, try not to use 'good boy', instead...good walking, good playing, good eating, good sleeping...lots of claps big smiles and touching (kisses and cuddles) when he does what you see as good behaviour.

smile consistency is the key. decide on the house rules and stick to them. no confusion and hubby on board and soon enough he'll know the no go areas.

Well, I think firstly you need to get rid of the concept of "good" or "bad" behavior. Its just behaviour. wink

I agree with setting up the environment so you don't need to say no.

I have to go, but you might find this an interesting read.
http://www.alfiekohn.org/parenting/gj.htm

My whole house is baby proof but little master gets into something by watching how we do it.

They can understand no just wait to they say it back or when you say i got to go somewhere and they say no.

We do high fives when little man does something good and when he being naughty we don't say your being naughty we just tell him that he not old enough to do that and he stops might take a few weeks but he gets there.

When he says a new word he knows i will text his daddy to tell him and he knows that we proud of him.