11 Easy Ways To Make Kids Feel Loved Everyday
3. Really, really listen to them.
Put your phone down. Stop puttering around the kitchen. Close your laptop. Devoting a few uninterrupted minutes of listening time to your child helps them feel valued. Plus, you’ll probably learn something cool about them you didn’t already know.
4. Goof around.
My kids love it when I’m silly, probably because I’m usually the more serious parent. The never-fail kitchen dance party is a favorite way for us all to let loose. My youngest daughter likes to “do” my hair and put on my makeup for me, and we all like to roll around tickling each other. Sometimes I have to remind myself to get goofy, but I’m always glad when I do.
5. Spend one-on-one time with them.
I feel like I’m always telling my kids I’m busy when they want to hang out with me, so we have to plan out our time together. I swear my girls are like different people when they’ve gotten my individual attention for a few hours. It’s like a little light turns on inside of them and sets them aglow. They need the connection, and I do too.
6. Keep in contact.
I tuck notes into my kids’ lunch boxes or write on their tangerines and napkins. I send my older kids funny texts and photos. Taking the time to communicate with them, in whatever mode they prefer, lets them know they’re on my mind and in my heart.
7. Let them do stuff by themselves.
I know it’s a pain in the ass and can majorly slow you down, but letting kids do things for themselves shows them you believe in them. It takes my 5-year-old a solid three minutes per shoe to tie them, but she’s so proud of herself once she’s done it — and I am too. So I grin and bare it.
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