Communicating Your Love to Your Child

This should come as no surprise that taking the time to tell your child how much you love him is one of the most meaningful things you can do. Stopping at the beginning or in the middle of a busy day and simply speaking the words, "I love you," can fill his day with warmth and fullfillment, provide a deep feeling of security, and lift his spirits and self-worth, which is necessary in order for your child to develop a healthy self-image.

Equally important in the expression of affection is the powerful medium of touch. Non-verbal communication - taking a child into your arms, giving an unexpected hug to your teenager, reaching out to touch your child on the arm or shoulder as she passes you in the kitchen - all of these re-establish a deep and meaningful level of communication between parent and child that is too easily lost in the hustle and bustle of our busy days.

Parents must make a thoughtful, conscious committment to demonstrate to their children, both verbally and nonverbally, that they are loved and cherished on each and every day. Reminding your child how important he is, how special to you, how much happiness he brings to you, will make him feel valued and wanted. Giving him lots of hugs, eye contact, back rubs, and kisses are healthy demonstrations of affection that are very important to raising a self-secure, strong and responsible child.

The last component of better parenting and communication is learning how to best express your own value system to your child, and I will explore this next time.


Have a blessed day.