Love Language | Quality Time | part 5 of 5

in the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for your child is critical, but really being there – with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby – makes your child feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful. Quality time also means sharing quality conversation and quality activities.

if this describes your wildling, do:

• have face-to-face time
• give undivided attention
• engage with child and ask for engagement back

don’t:

• avert your eyes while talking
• leave long bouts in between one-on-one time
• look at your phone or computer while interacting with your child

practical ways to express love in this language:

• Go on a picnic
• Head to the park for playtime
• Go on an early morning or evening walk
• Watch a movie together
• Have a one-one-one breakfast with your child
• Volunteer for a community service project together
• Do a puzzle together
• Play a board game
• Have a camp out
• Head to the library to pick out new books to read
• Head to the museum
• Find a new event to attend
• Go to the mall and window shop
• Head to the zoo
• Teach your child a new song / skill
• Tell a made-up story – have your child contribute as well
• Go on a scavenger hunt
• Come up with a play with your child and perform it for the rest of the family
• Make and fly a kite or paper airplanes
• Have a face-to-face conversation – uninterrupted, giving your full attention