Love

Authors Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell, M.D. have written a book about the five love languages of children. These "love languages" are simply different ways love is communicated and understood fromperson to person:
Quality time: Some children feel loved when they have your undivided attention. Quality time is a parent's gift of presence to a child. It says "You are important. I like being withyou."
Words of affirmation: Words of affection and endearment, praise and encouragement, and words that give positive guidance all say "I care about you."
Gifts: Gifts are viewed as expressionsof love. Wrapping the present or giving it in a unique way is part of the love expression. Some children feel very special as they open a gift.
Acts of service: Acts of service such as fixing yourchild's bike or mending their doll's clothes communicate love to some children. Acts of service must be age appropriate and to maintain balance in this area, only do for your children what they cannotdo for themselves.
Physical touch: This can be giving your daughter a hug or wrestling with your son, depending on what is comfortable for you and your child. Some children are not comfortable withhugs but still need physical touch. A gentle touch on the arm or back helps meet children's need for physical touch and can make the difference between a good day and a bad day for them.

From thebook "The Five Love Languages of Children," here are some suggestions for determining your child's primary love language:
1. Observe and remember your child's expressions of love to you and others.They will usually express love in the way that has meaning for them!
2. Our children ask for many things from us. Review the five love languages first and then try to list as many requests as possibleby love language category. The bulk of requests will fall under the language that most communicates love to your child.
3. Notice what your child most frequently complains about. Is it that you...