* Hyvä poika: This literally translates to "good boy," but it sounds more formal and less affectionate than the English equivalent. It's suitable for a child you don't know well or in a more serious context.
* Hienoa! or Mahtavaa! These mean "Great!" or "Fantastic!" and are good alternatives if the boy did something well. They are more enthusiastic and less direct than "good boy."
* Kiva poika! This translates to "Nice boy!" and is a gentler, more informal option than "hyvä poika."
* Using a pet name or term of endearment (depending on your relationship with the child) would be more appropriate in most casual situations.
So, while "hyvä poika" is the closest literal translation, hienoa, mahtavaa, or kiva poika are often better choices depending on the situation.