Our children need our love, attention, and time. As a key influence in their lives, they look to us for the nurture and care they need to grow in confidence. But, unfortunately, our time is divided between so many things that we don’t always get to provide those special opportunities to show our kids just how loved they are.
There are many ways for us to show our children that they are loved. By using actions, the aim is to show our kids how much they are loved so that when it comes to a time when we can’t give them our exclusive attention, they are easily able to endure the gaps in our attention. Here are some ways you can make your child feel loved every day.
Be Attentive
For a child to feel heard, we must actively listen and give them our undivided attention. This means stopping what you are doing, getting down to their level, maintaining eye contact, and engaging with what they are telling you, even if it’s about something that happened in school two weeks ago.
If you’re unable to give them your full attention, let them know that you want to hear everything they say when you can give them your undivided attention. Then, be sure to follow up with them later on in the day.
Give Them Praise
It’s no good praising your child for every little thing they do. Instead, acknowledge their achievement when they do something out of the ordinary or something they have been actively working towards. Let them know how proud you are of them for their effort regardless of the outcome.
Be Affectionate
Hugs and kisses regularly are a sure-fire way to show your child they are loved. This physical contact helps to continue the bond you have with your child and has been shown to boost your child’s self-esteem.
Create Rituals
Spending time together to unwind and relax after a long day can also help secure attachment with your child. For example, creating an after-school routine of snacks, connection, and homework can help your child relax after an exhausting day at school. The same goes for a wind-down bedtime routine of reading, snuggling together, and talking about what you are grateful for.
One-On-One Time
Spending even ten minutes together with one child can boost their connection with you. Make sure to leave your phone aside, turn off the TV and actively connect with your little one. Let them decide what you will do together.
Love What They Love
Power Rangers may not be your thing, but loving what your child loves is a great way to show them that you are interested in how they play. Sharing an interest in their activities and hobbies helps your child feel valuable and loved.