You're his confidante: When your child comes to you with a problem, it shows that he trusts you. He knows that you can help him manage his feelings, and he's open to your guidance about how to make the situation better.
She wants to do things for you: Your child may want to bring you tea or even make your breakfast. This is a particularly rewarding sign of love, especially after the toddler and preschool years when you may have felt like a 24-hour waitress. It's not just about you giving and giving anymore. Now your child wants to give, too."
He's more flexible: As much as we hate to admit it, there are times when we let our children down. The good news is that big kids are more likely to take this in stride, thanks to the reciprocal, loving relationship that you've built over the years. So if you have to put off playing a game until morning because you're tired, for example, he's more likely to accept this calmly. He trusts that you'll follow through, and he has the maturity to respect your needs in addition to his own.
She brags about you: As parents we brag about our kids all the time (at least to sympathetic grandparents and our spouses). Our kids brag about us too. So if you overhear your big kid saying, "My mommy can run faster than anyone," take it for what it is – a sign of love and admiration.
He shows gratitude: When children say thank you to us, they're really expressing respect and love. So the next time you give your child a snack and he exclaims, "These are my favorite pickles! Thanks!" feel free to say, "I love you too, honey." Or just take a moment to bask in the glow.
She tells you when you embarrass her: If your child institutes a new "no hugging or kissing" rule at morning drop-off, it doesn't mean she doesn't love you. In fact, it's just the opposite – by expressing her limits, she's demonstrating the trust she has in you. She knows that even if she puts the brakes on the juicy goodbye, she still has the security of your enduring love.
He's a diplomat: Your school-age child is able and quite willing to negotiate with you. So if he wants some screen time but you want him to do his homework, he's able to work together to find a solution. He trusts that you'll listen to him, which makes him more willing to listen to you.
She wants to do things for you: Your child may want to bring you tea or even make your breakfast. This is a particularly rewarding sign of love, especially after the toddler and preschool years when you may have felt like a 24-hour waitress. It's not just about you giving and giving anymore. Now your child wants to give, too."
He's more flexible: As much as we hate to admit it, there are times when we let our children down. The good news is that big kids are more likely to take this in stride, thanks to the reciprocal, loving relationship that you've built over the years. So if you have to put off playing a game until morning because you're tired, for example, he's more likely to accept this calmly. He trusts that you'll follow through, and he has the maturity to respect your needs in addition to his own.
She brags about you: As parents we brag about our kids all the time (at least to sympathetic grandparents and our spouses). Our kids brag about us too. So if you overhear your big kid saying, "My mommy can run faster than anyone," take it for what it is – a sign of love and admiration.
He shows gratitude: When children say thank you to us, they're really expressing respect and love. So the next time you give your child a snack and he exclaims, "These are my favorite pickles! Thanks!" feel free to say, "I love you too, honey." Or just take a moment to bask in the glow.
She tells you when you embarrass her: If your child institutes a new "no hugging or kissing" rule at morning drop-off, it doesn't mean she doesn't love you. In fact, it's just the opposite – by expressing her limits, she's demonstrating the trust she has in you. She knows that even if she puts the brakes on the juicy goodbye, she still has the security of your enduring love.
He's a diplomat: Your school-age child is able and quite willing to negotiate with you. So if he wants some screen time but you want him to do his homework, he's able to work together to find a solution. He trusts that you'll listen to him, which makes him more willing to listen to you.
2 comments:
Awww, very good signs to know!
Another great and insightful article into children's behavior!
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