Love Language | Words of Affirmation | Part 1 of 5
in my introductory blog post to this series, Loving Your Child Effectively, the importance of loving your child in the language they understand was highlighted. If we love our children effectively, it strengthens our relationship and fills up their emotional tank. A child whose emotional tank is filled, is also less likely to act out. #winning
actions don’t always speak louder than words. For some wildlings, words are especially powerful. Their primary love language is WORDS OF AFFIRMATION. They feed off written or spoken appreciation and encouragement. They might also be especially sensitive to criticism. Unsolicited compliments mean the world to them. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important – hearing the reasons behind that love sends their spirits skyward. Insults can leave them shattered and are not easily forgotten. Kind, encouraging, and positive words are truly life-giving.
if this describes your wildling, do:
- be aware of your tone and how your words come out
- listen
- praise your child on a job well done
- use harsh language
- assume they know they are appreciated and loved without being told
- dish out compliments too frequently or insincerely to the point where they expect it all the time
practical ways to express this language:
- Say “I love you”
- Make a thank you card
- Write a list of three things that you find awesome about your wildling
- Speak in a kind tone
- Come up with a love song together
- Say “I like it when you ___”
- Reinforce the positive by saying, “You’re doing a great job”
- Draw a happy picture and share it
- Write a secret note on the bathroom mirror
- Write a note before bed and exchange it with your child the next morning
- Hum a happy song together with a loved one
- Smile and laugh together
- Draw a family portrait and hang it proudly on the refrigerator for at least a week
- Make a get well soon card
- Encourage your child by telling them, “Don’t give up”
- After saying good night, add “I can’t wait to see you again in the morning!”
- Create a secret love signal just between you and your child
- Write a love poem
- Compliment someone with your favorite adjective: “You are ___!”
You May Also Like
Love Language | Physical Touch | part 3 of 5
How to Talk to Kids about COVID-19
