Ever wondered how your child expresses love? It’s not about fancy stuff, just how they show their feelings. Every child is one-of-a-kind. We all have our own ways of expressing love, especially with our kids. When they’re little, it’s pretty simple to connect and show affection. But as they grow, things can change.
Take my kids, for example. They used to hug me all the time, anywhere we were. Those hugs were my favorite part of the day. But my older one, who’s almost 12 now, started feeling differently. She didn’t want to hug in public anymore. It hit me when she walked with her friends after school without giving me a hug.
So, when she did hug me at home, I held her tight, not wanting to let go. I realized we both needed that sense of security. It became clear we had to find different ways to express our love.
For some kids and parents, it’s all about words of affection and appreciation. Saying “I love you” or praising their achievements can mean the world.
Quality time is another way to connect. Reading a book or just spending time together, like family prayers or enjoying a meal, helps us bond.
Gifts can also be a way to show love, but they shouldn’t be out of guilt or pressure. It’s more about thoughtful gestures, like handmade cards or meaningful presents.
Here’s what I do. I also send emails and pictures to my kids on their own email accounts. It’s a way to share love and memories that they can cherish in the future.
Sometimes, it’s simply being there when they need you. My younger one likes to do everything right beside me, whether it’s playing or reading. My older one prefers doing art or studying together. We help each other out.
The thing is, there are no strict rules. We do what works for our parent-child relationship. Feeling loved is crucial for a child’s healthy development. The love they receive from us shapes who they become and how they handle relationships later in life. That’s why it’s important to understand and respect your child’s way of showing love from an early age.”