It is so important to show kids we love them every day of the year. While many of these we do naturally, we might not do them often enough or sometimes we just need to vary our routine and go the extra step to show our own children and the children we meet how special and unique they are!
You will notice that some of the ideas on this list apply to all children we know, not just our own. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, friend, caregiver or teacher you can have an impact on a child with any one of the ideas on this list. Children thrive when they are reminded of how much they are loved and valued, not just by their parents but by others in their lives as well.
Remember their birthdays.
Ask them about themselves
Look in their eyes when you talk to them.
Laugh together.
Say yes a lot.
Be yourself.
Notice when they’re acting differently.
Share their excitement.
Send them a letter or postcard. (Put a note in their lunchbox or backpack if they are younger.)
Notice when they’re absent.
Call them to say hello.
Show them how to do everyday things like shop for groceries
Discuss their dreams and nightmares.
Learn what they have to teach.
Make yourself available.
Show up at their concerts, games, and events.
Find a common interest.
Apologize when you’ve done something wrong.
Listen to their favorite music with them.
Wave and smile when you part.
Thank them.
Point out what you like about them.
Clip magazine pictures or articles that interest them.
Catch them doing something right and compliment them for it.
Give them your undivided attention.
Ask for their opinion.
Introduce them to your friends and family.
Tell them how much you like being with them.
Meet their friends and parents.
Help them become an expert at something.
Be excited when you see them.
Tell them about yourself.
Praise more; criticize less.
Ask them to help you.
Believe in them.
Delight in their uniqueness.
Let them make mistakes.
Include them in conversations.
Respect them.
Be understanding when they have a difficult day.
Appreciate their personality, accepting them as they are.
Encourage them to help others.
Do what they like to do.
Encourage them to think big.
Celebrate their firsts and lasts, such as the first day of school.
Welcome their suggestions.
Call them when they’re sick.
Introduce them to people of excellence.
Give them your phone number.
Love them, no matter what.