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One of the things I notice most about new mothers and fathers is the
love that grows from the first time they hold their child in their arms.
The love a mother feels for her child is the same whether the child was
grown in her own body or in their heart, as when a mother adopts a
child.
My children are dear to me and I find it hard to see them in pain. I
feel like a mother hen watching over her baby chicks all the time.
Children are resilient in some areas, but always need to know they are
loved, wanted, and are priceless to us, at any age. Even when our
children don’t need us any longer to tie their shoestrings or to wipe
their noses, they still need to know that we care. Often a child will
not feel the impact of their mother’s love until they become a parent
themselves or their mother is no longer living. Then the power of a
lifetime of love their mother provided sets in.
To love and accept our children, even when they are driving us nuts
and their behavior is horrid is most challenging. But the mix of
unconditional love and loving limits are the most important duties and
obligations a mother can have. Hugs and kisses are special and a
necessity. Love can be expressed in many other ways too, including the
discipline and responsibility we give to our children. Eye contact and a
simple touch on a shoulder or a love pat on the back mean so much and
cost so little. Try today to think of ways you can show your children
how much you love and value them.
Here are a few demonstrations of love I have found my children are
fond of. You can adapt these suggestions according to the ages of your
child.
• Outward expressions of affection for your spouse, such as holding
hands and warm hugs, are good examples of love and security you can give
to your children.
• Tuck notes in their lunches, or write a note on a napkin or
notepaper, and put it under their pillow.
• A simple, I love you! A smiley face or you’re the greatest!
• Ask them to read to you - whatever they want - for 10 minutes.
• Spend time listening – this is sometimes hard in an active life,
but more important than ever. Even 5 minutes can do wonders for a
child’s self image. Remember good eye contact is one of the keys. Pull
yourself away from the computer or desk and sit with them face to face.
Mirror their body language as best you can. .
• With my teenage son, I ask him to sit next to me as we curl up and
watch a movie together on the couch. Even at 6’2 he rolls his eyes, but
he likes it. Now, on occasion, he does it from habit, but not in front
of friends (smile). Big kids need hugs too.
• On occasion we have a “backwards day”, where we eat dessert first
and then the main course; kids love it when their parents are silly at
times.
• My ten-year-old daughter loves it when I unexpectedly put fresh
flowers in a vase on her nightstand, a surprise when she goes to bed.
• Let them make their own family photo scrap book – try color coping
some of photos in your photo albums – this way you are not losing
valuable photos if they cut them up. Recycling old cards and gift-wrap
can make nice backgrounds and boarders
Whichever way you choose to share your feelings remember to do
something each day. Experts agree that if a child receives their
nurturing inside of the family they are less inclined to look outside to
others. Create a home where love is shown. Any parents, whether rich or
poor, can afford this.
These simple actions can have a significant influence on our
children’s daily lives that will last for a lifetime. The cycle of love
between a mother and child will be passed on to their children as well..
Stop and enjoy them now. Before you know it, they will be grown and this
time will be lost.
Start today!
