Let's agree to practice the following behaviors this school year:

1. Avoid "all or nothing" logic that says if something can't be done perfectly, it might just as well not be attempted.  That's not true.  Making progress is more significant than paralysis resulting from a commitment to perfection - which, by the way, is unlikely to ever be achieved since most skills are mastered through practice, which is another way of saying "trial and error."
2. Avoid globalizing terms - "always," "never," "only," etc.  "You never clean up your room" may seem to be true, may even be demonstrably true over the past six months, but global claims are nearly always false and rarely produce effective communication.
3. Praise progress in realistic terms.  Your child is well aware that he or she has not discovered the cure for cancer, so don't treat each step in the right direction as though it were.  Be realistic and generous with your praise.  Keep the frequency high and the honesty real.

By the way, I've heard people say you should focus your parenting on character traits, not specific actions ("I know you're a great kid with an amazing appreciation for others").  I've heard others say you need to focus on specific actions, not general traits ("You did an excellent job on that science homework").  My advice - speak to both.  Provide a balance of feedback directed to specific accomplishments that are reflective of emerging character.

Don't forget - it's about trajectory.  Is your child headed in the right direction?  If so, celebrate and encourage continuing progress.  But what if his/her trajectory is different in different areas of life?  There are lots of arrows pointed in different directions.  Well, then you are raising a human.  Look at the overall direction and don't allow one area of struggle to overshadow the general progress that is being made.  For the optimists, look at the overall direction and don't ignore the one area of struggle that, if neglected, may begin to turn back progress in other areas as well.

Raising children can be as confusing and overwhelming as trying to fix the economy.  There are general trends of which we are aware and there are all sorts of experts who have ideas as to what to do.  You've got to make the decisions within your own home, rely on others you trust who can support and supplement your objectives, and pray that your child responds to love and consistent discipline by making choices that keep the overall arrow pointed in the right direction.

When you're tempted to feel discouraged, step back, and take a look at the trajectory! 

BONUS: Read my recommendation of "Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters" at my blog site: Effective Family Communication.