As parents we have so many things to worry and fuss over. Our children’s development, the schools they go to, being involved in their interests, making God a priority in their lives and so much more. Especially those of us who frequent the internet and social media, there are constant reminders of everything we aren’t doing for our kids. When really we do so much for these little people we love.
These little ones of ours are actually pretty easy to please. I think our biggest job as parents and as christians is to love them. And not just by saying it or giving them things they want, but by showing it. So today I am sharing 5 easy and simple ways to show your children you love them.
Pray With Them and For Them
One of the best ways to love our children is through our relationship with God. His love is bigger than any other love they will ever feel and by bringing Him into your relationship with your children you are giving them that gift. Praying with them teaches them not only how to pray but how simple it can be and will shape their relationships with Him at an early age. And praying for them is the ultimate way to show them you love them.
Do a Fun Activity
There are so many things you can do with your children. It can be a simple craft project, or a puzzle that they haven’t done in ages. My girls are usually pretty happy if I sit down and just color with them. I love spending this time with them. They genuinely appreciate it and its a great time for me to just listen to them. And boy do they have a lot to say.
With Valentine’s day coming up this is a great time to do a craft project for the Holiday. I shared a few ideas in a recent post here. But for all of the other moms out there who also have super demanding schedules and feel like there isn’t enough time in the day to do a craft project just start simple. You can grab some paper, scissors and crayons and make fun cards. They will enjoy that time with you no matter how extensive the activity.
Cook Together
I love to bake and cook with my girls. And they love to help out in any way they can (which isn’t much yet). Even if its just pouring flour into a bowl for cupcakes, or holding the milk carton with me as I measure out what we need. They like to be there in the moment with me observing and pitching in when they can and it really is so sweet.
You can pick a super easy meal like a pasta or a pizza. Something that allows them to participate throughout so they feel like they’ve contributed to the meal. Such a great way to spend time together.
Let Your Imaginations Soar
Children have the most wild imaginations. Which can make play time a lot easier for you. Sometimes getting down on their level and playing along is all they need. My girls love cooking for me in their play kitchen, or playing with their baby dolls, or dressing up in their favorite tutus and singing along to the Frozen soundtrack. Sometimes, I just let them take the lead and do what they want to do.
Be Physical
I LOVE to snuggle. And until they are fighting me off I will hold on to them as much as I can. One of my favorite things to do is read with them and have them right next to me. I love to snuggle with them while we watch movies. And I am not going to lie, sometimes I invite them into my bed…(I know..). But I love it and I know one day they won’t dare get into bed with me, so I say soak it up while you can. And they absolutely love it.
So, there you have it. Showing your kids that you love them can be as simple as getting under the blankets with them and watching a movie. Or it can be a bigger gesture like cooking a meal together. I am a believer that the little things add up and matter just as much as the big things and we just have to make sure we are squeezing them in when we can.