How Do Your Kids Want to Receive Love?

We each have our own way of preferring how we receive the gift of love. Children and youth are no different. Consider paying special attention to what style of love your child or youth prefers to receive from you.

Words of Affirmation:

“What a great choice to act kindly” or “I noticed how hard you worked.”

Quality Time:

Take two minutes out of each day and just sit with your child or youth for no special reason except to BE with them.

Tangible Gifts:

Give small gifts to let them know you are thinking of them, e.g., Hershey’s Kisses, notes, or stickers.

Touch:

Use multiple opportunities to make contact with your child or youth to show they matter, e.g., touch hand, pat on back, or special handshake.

Acts of Service:

Periodically do something nice for your child or youth, e.g., put their socks on (even if they are old enough to do it themselves), carry their backpack for them sometimes, or help with their chores one night.