The pandemic has brought change and uncertainty to all of us, and kids are no exception. Our children have faced massive disruption with school, friends, and many of the things that they hold dear.
So, what’s a parent to do?
First and foremost, make sure they feel loved. In today’s busy world, that’s easier said than done. We all know, at any given time, we’re balancing ten plates in our hands.
But these four things are quick! Plus, they will make an enormous difference in how well you connect, and how resilient your child is in the long term.
So, check them out and use them liberally!
4 Easy Ways to Show Your Child a Little Love
Give Them a Hug
First, did you know that giving a long hug releases oxytocin? That’s right, the feel-good connection drug. And couldn’t we all use a little biological happiness in our day?!
Hugs also help you feel close to loved ones, lower stress, and even help you avoid getting sick. So, hug your kids today, and every day!
Write Love Notes
All this takes is a pen and a piece of paper. Write something simple like “I love you” or “great job on your school paper.” Then, leave it in their lunch box, backpack, or under their pillow. This small act of love with be a bright star in their day, and it takes very little effort.
Check out these 24 Free Love Notes for Kids to print some off!
Try Love Quotes
Next, it’s often difficult to express the powerful love that we feel for our kids. How could they possibly understand?
Luckily, there are quotes that can do it for us! Use a saying out of a beloved children’s book, like this one:
“I’ll love you forever / I’ll like you for always / As long as I’m living / My baby you’ll be.”
– Love You Forever by Robert Munsch
Or find a deeper quote for an older child like this one:
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
– Lao Tzu
Either way, you can get right to the point with love quotes!
Appeal to Their Love Language
And finally, take a deep look into what your children crave. Do they desire your attention? Cherish any gifts from you? Or glow when they receive praise?
Use these observations to help tailor how you give love to them. Here are some quick examples for each type.
Affirmations
- Leave an encouraging note on their bathroom mirror
- Give them a compliment
- Give extra praise when they’ve done something helpful or great
Quality Time
- Have a one-on-one date with your child
- Make family night a regular occurrence
- Take them to run an errand
Acts of Service
- Help them with something they’ve been struggling with
- Make their bed for them before you tuck them in
- Cook their favorite dinner
Touch
- Rub your child’s back
- Give a long hug
- Cuddle on the couch with a good movie
- Have a tickle fight
Gifts
- Leave a small trinket on their pillow
- Give them an award for something they did
- Leave them multiple small gifts to open on a special day
If you’re not sure which love language is their favorite, or you think they have multiple, then by all means use them all!
In Conclusion
However you do it, just do it. One small act of love can be more impactful than you ever imagined. And remember, all anyone wants to feel deep down, is love.