Tammy's Ten: Ways to Show Your Kids Affection

Kids need love and attention from their parents to grow into happy and healthy adults. They need to feel secure about their world and surroundings so they will not be afraid to try new things. There are many ways parents can show affection for their kids that are simple and don't cost a thing. For easy ways to help your children feel loved see Tammy's Ten below.

1. Give them your undivided attention. One on one interaction with your child is an easy way to show your affection. It can be difficult when you have more than one child at home, but you should try to make it a priority. Find something special just the two of you can do. It can be as simple as watering the garden.

2. Participate in your child's activities. It's okay to let your children play by themselves, but you should really make an effort to join in the fun. Laugh and run around with your child at the park instead of sitting on the bench and watching. Child's play can be fun for adults too!

3. Offer lots of praise. Praise is so important in helping kids feel secure, as the world can be frustrating for someone so small. Once your child has mastered running and climbing, you should still offer praise when you see good behavior. It's easier than discipline!

4. Let them make decisions. Kids need to feel they are in control of their lives. They don't feel you respect them when you order them around. Offer simple choices for their clothing, food or activities. It lets them know you value their opinion.

5. Listen to them. Don't ignore your child's questions even when they are pestering. They will likely just repeat themselves or give up on you entirely. Acknowledge your children even when you are busy and let them know the time they can have your attention. Children are impatient and won't wait long!

6. Show them physical affection. Hug and kiss your kids as often as you can. They grow up too fast and you may miss your chance. Snuggle together on the couch, hug your child when you greet them and kiss all those make-believe boo-boos. Kids need this!

7. Be involved in their lives. Don't let others do your job, be a real parent to your kids. Cheer them on at their soccer games, watch their favorite television shows or read a book together as a family. When they grow up, they will know you cared enough to try.

8. Let them participate in adult activities. Instead of occupying your child to get your chores done, incorporate them into your world. Tell them things about your day, let them help to make a meal or introduce them to your favorite songs. Let them be a part of your life and know the real you!

9. Keep favorite memorabilia. Make sure to fill out that baby book, take lots of pictures of the early years and keep that artwork from the fridge. Kids love to look back at their special memories and will know how important their lives are to you. It's fun to reminisce!

10. Small tokens. Gifts don't have to come from a store. Kids appreciate the smallest gestures. Cut out pictures they might enjoy from the paper, give them a pretty flower you found on a walk or an interesting shell you picked up on the beach. It helps your children know you are thinking of them even when you are not around!

It's not hard to find ways to love your kids; you just need to make the effort. Even if you are going through a difficult time, you need to remember your parenting duties. Wipe the slate clean each morning and forget about the fights. Life is too short to be angry. Kids who grow up feeling loved and secure have a great chance for a wonderful future. Happy parenting!