You do not need to plan much in advance to show your child affection. It is likely that opportunities to show affection are present throughout your day with your child. Brainstorm how and when you will show your child affection.

 

• Take a look at the “Showing Affection” part of this webpage to get ideas about ways to show affection.

• Think about when you can show your child affection. Times you are saying goodbye or goodnight are good opportunities for affection (for example, “I love you, have a good day” or “I love you, sleep tight”).

• Think about when you can praise your child. Try to find times to “catch” your child being good and then praise that behavior.

• Find ways for your child to help you throughout the day (for example, at mealtimes) and plan to praise that helpful behavior.

• Take some time to stop and think about all the things you like and appreciate about your child—then find time to share these things with your child.