Show Kids Love Every Day
What the world needs now is love sweet love
It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of
What the world needs now is love sweet love
No, not just for some, but for everyone— “What the World Needs Now” by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
Today — Valentine’s Day — and every day, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests 14 ways parents can show their child love. Here is one of our favorites:
Think Hugs First
When your child is angry, grouchy or in a bad mood, try not to take it personally. Calm your own emotions first, perhaps by taking a deep breath, and then give a quick hug, cuddle, pat, secret nod or other sign of affection. Once they are also calm and feeling better, consider talking with them about the event and how they might better manage those strong emotions next time.
Together-time matters. Even when the timing is inconvenient, setting aside enough time each day to read together, play together, or just talk with one another helps kids know how much they are valued and loved.
Always exhibiting kindness teaches kids to always be kind, too. At the end of the day, few things matter more than that:
Choose Words With Care
Use plenty of positive and encouraging words when talking with your child. Model consideration and gratitude by saying “please” and “thank you.” Skip the sarcasm, mockery and put-downs, even if teasing. Children often don’t understand your purpose. Even if they do, these messages can harm self-esteem and create negative ways of talking and connecting with each other.
Discipline With Love
Use positive, non-violent discipline. Harsh physical and verbal punishments don’t work and can damage long-term physical and mental health. From an early age, explain clear and consistent rules that your children can understand. Give praise when they follow them—not just punishment when they don’t. Calmly explain consequences and follow through right away when rules are broken.
Teaching children to be kind to nature and all its inhabitants is also an expression of love:
Care for the Earth
Spend time together in nature when you can, exploring ways to appreciate and protect it. Taking steps to care for the environment will show your children how you care about their future. Many children and teens hear about or experience climate-change-fueled disasters such as wildfires and severe storms. Talk with them about their concerns in a way that is honest, hopeful, developmentally appropriate, and solution oriented.
Parents can’t say it and children can’t hear it enough :
Share These 3 Words Without Limits
Remember, all children want their parent’s attention, no matter their age. Make time every day to talk. Young people are more likely to make healthy choices if they stay connected with family members.
And don’t forget to say “I love you” to your children on February 14—and many more times as they grow up. They are never too old to hear it.
Read “14 Ways to Show Your Child Love: Valentine’s Day and Every Day” from the AAP here.
source https://www.thepediablog.com/2023/02/14/show-kids-love-every-day/
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