I don't see how praising can be a bad thing. I think as they get older, kids will learn that praise isn't automatic and doesn't come for every little thing. But also, it sounds to me like the person from your group is overlapping praise and approval. Her dc seems to be looking more for approval than praise. I could be way off on that, though. LOL.
Anyways, think about it this way. When you work, you appreciate getting praised and/or recognized for a job well done. You want to know that your employer appreciates you and your hard work. But you don't expect it every time you do a good job...it's just nice to hear sometimes. And it has been my experience that employees who don't receive that recognition tend to get frustrated and fed up and feel like "what am I working so hard for?" I know I have been there.
Anyways, keep praising Noah. He obviously loves it!
