When we think about Valentine’s Day, we think mostly flowers, sweet treats and showering our loved ones with gifts. But for a parent who’s juggling work and family life, focusing on the daily small moments might be more realistic.
Sure, it’s tempting to want to give our children material items and Valentine’s Day treats, but more often than not, it’s the simple acts of love that truly matters.
As parents, we may fall into this mindset of providing the best life possible for our children. But when you think about it, teaching the meaning of love, creating loving memories with children, and spending quality family time together are truly more valuable than any gift you can buy.
This makes Valentine’s Day a great place to start.
How to teach and show our children the meaning of Love
1. Spend meaningful time with your children
As parents in this day and age, we often find ourselves rushing from one place to another and from chore to chore. A simple place to start is to have dinner as a family as often as possible with no other distractions like the TV, cell phone and other gadgets. Even though it can be difficult at times, simple moments like this can really make a difference in your child’s life.
Use this time together to talk about your day, your friends and maybe even have a little bit of fun with “what would you do if…” questions to lighten up the mood and get the conversation started.
2. Express “I love you” in words and notes
Most Asian parents find it hard to be open about their feelings and express their love to their child, but saying these meaningful words openly and freely can boost your child’s self-esteem and help your children to express their own feelings more clearly.
You can also try and write a simple note that says, “I love you,” and place it under a pillow, in a backpack, or in a lunch bag to remind your child throughout the day of your love, even when you’re not together.
3. Make a list of what you love and are thankful for
Have your child write down the people and things he is thankful for and why. This is a great way to instill gratitude and get him thinking about those less fortunate.
4. Plan some quality time to do something fun
One-on-one time with your child doesn’t have to be costly or extravagant; stop for a snack after school, a walk in the park, or plan another activity outside of the daily routine.
Breaking out of your daily routine to focus on quality time with your child can do wonders for your relationship with them.
5. Spread the love
Find ways to share the love with people who need it. Have your child make extra Valentines and decide who to give them to. Talk and explain to them about the importance of everyday kindness towards others.
Use Valentine’s Day to express your love towards each other and take a break from the hurried life we live in. By simply slowing down and having open communication with our children, they’ll pick up the true meaning of love and grow up in a life filled with love from their surroundings.
