Families For Life | Small gestures that mean the world to your child

Building a relationship with your child doesn’t need to involve extravagant family vacations or trips to the zoo. While those family activities are great for creating lifelong memories, love can be found in the little things! Warm hugs, talking about their interests, or sharing a cup of bubble tea, these are simple everyday moments that can leave a great impact on your child.

Showering your child with positive attention will help them feel loved. These moments will help them understand that they are a valued, capable human being who brings happiness to others. Here are three ways to show your child you love them and learn more about why these moments matter so much to your little ones!

#1 Show that you care

We mean this one literally! Nonverbal communication is just as important as verbal communication. Positive nonverbal communication can be shown through hugs and kisses, while negative nonverbal communication can manifest in a frown or a grumpy tone. Sending negative messages might make your child feel rejected or let down, even when you’re doing something fun together.

Use your body language to send positive messages and help your child understand that you care. Try adopting these gestures when you talk to your child:

  • Touch your child’s arm to let your child know you’re interested, and you care about what she’s saying or doing.

  • Use a pleasant tone of voice and a relaxed body posture and facial expression when you talk with your child.

  • When you ask about their day, turn to face your child and make lots of eye contact. This says, ‘I’m giving you my full attention’ and ‘You’re important to me’.

By using positive body language, you can improve communications and let your child know that they are heard and valued.

#2 Treat them to their favourites

Make their favourite meal, buy them a book from their favourite author, or treat them to their favourite dessert! Surprise your child with these treats and don’t wait for major celebrations to have an excuse to show your love.

While your child already knows you care about them, going out of your way to make them happy can reinforce the truth and give them more reason to feel loved. Treating them to their favourite meals or toys also shows that you’ve been paying attention to their likes and dislikes and makes them feel heard too.

#3 Share their interests

Make time to get involved in your child’s interests. Gaming or reading might not be your thing, but listen with enthusiasm! Remember, positive body language can go a long way and expressing your interest and paying attention will help your child feel valued.

There are some hobbies you can participate in without needing to be a part of them. Try this with your kids:

  • Volunteer to be a taste-tester when your child wants to bake.

  • Sit in for a session or two when your child plays a game. Ask when the next game release is and offer to go with them to get a copy or, during major celebrations, surprise them with a gift!

  • Share a Spotify playlist with your child and share music with each other!

At the end of the day, no matter how you choose to engage with your child’s interests and hobbies, the most important part is that you’re showing interest in what they’re doing. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of praise and encouragement where appropriate to strengthen your affirmation!

With these 3 tips, you can fit more love into everyday moments! Sending positive messages and letting your child feel valued can help your child build a healthy self-image and confidence in the long run. Let’s do our best as parents to build a loving environment for our children!