Five ways to really show your kids you love them this Valentine's Day
Valentine’s Day is right around the corner – and as parents, we all want our kids to feel loved. If you’re looking for an alternative way to show how much you adore your kiddos that doesn’t involve candy, toys or trinkets, we spent some time with licensed family therapist Suzanne Puckett of Puckett Child & Family Therapy for some out-of-the-box (literally) ideas!
Give Them Some One-on-One Time
Whether you have a younger child who would love extra snuggles or playtime or a teen who would appreciate a long walk together, a movie, tennis match, or meal out – taking time to do something they really enjoy can make kids feel special.
“As parents, we’re juggling so much – and it can often be difficult to give our children even 15 minutes of uninterrupted time where they can enjoy our undivided attention,” Puckett explains. Planning a special outing or activity will let them know you enjoy spending individual time with them – even if you can’t do it as often as you’d both like.
Take Something Off Their Plate
Think of something your child can’t stand doing, but has to do this week. Whether it’s cleaning their room, making their lunch, emptying the dishwasher, or changing the cat litter. Do it for them, just this once. You can let them know it’s their Valentine’s Day treat and not to get used to it – but this is a simple thing you can do to demonstrate you’re thinking of them and showing your love this week.
Practice Active Listening
One of the greatest ways we can show our kids that we care is to button up our lips and listen to what our children have to say.
Puckett says it’s one of the top ways to make our kids feel valued and loved, and to really connect with them. She recommends active listening – which is when you give the child your full attention, make eye contact, get down on their level, and repeat back what they’ve said.
This isn’t an easy thing to do and you probably can’t master the technique in a day, but giving it a try and working on it is a great way to show your love on Valentine’s Day and every day.
Make it a Memorable Day
Kids of all ages (yes, even teenagers!) love a good celebration. Hang up some cheap decorations, leave them love notes throughout the day, have a special treat together, put on a love song and dance with them, or whatever silly or cheesy activities you think your kid(s) will enjoy. Other ideas could include cooking a festive family meal together (think fondue!), watching a cheesy Valentine’s or love story movie or show, or blasting a playlist of songs that you and your child like to listen to together.
Remind Them What Makes Them Special
At some point during the day (or in their valentine), make sure to tell your kids WHY you love them.
“As a family therapist, it never gets old watching a parent tell their child what they believe makes him or her so special,” Puckett relates. “Sincere sentiments like ‘Your thoughtfulness makes me smile,” or ‘Your helpful manner never goes unnoticed’ or ‘I love how you respect nature and all living things’ can feel like you are giving your kids a hug right to their heart,” Puckett says.
Whatever you do to celebrate this year, remember that Valentine’s Day is a great excuse for extra hugs, snuggles – or for the older kids, whatever type of affection they’ll tolerate. Soak it up while you can!
