Parental Affection

🌟Weekly Inspiration🌟

Kids actually like it when their parents are affectionate with each other—not cringy PDA, but small gestures that they observe that demonstrate their parents' love for each other. Imagine how reassuring, comforting, and safe it feels for children to grow up where the adults that raise them are loving, kind, and affectionate with one another. Rarer than you think, trust me.
 

Some examples:

Hugs/kisses

Holding hands

Sharing quality time

Actively listening to one another

Saying “I love you”

Using affectionate nicknames

Cooking meals together

Sharing chores

Taking walks

Celebrating each other’s successes

Remembering anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions

It is even possible to be separated/divorced and find a way to be cooperative and loving in the co-parenting journey. It may be challenging, but it’s not impossible to remember why you fell for your partner, why you wanted to have children with your partner, and to remember that cooperation/flexibility/remaining positive go a long way towards providing stability for your child in the wake of divorce/separation. It is extremely important for all children to know some positive attributes about both of their parents, even if they aren’t perfect (none of us are) and it was best to part ways. All children want to know that they were conceived/or adopted in love ❤️

Ask Yourself

Am I affectionate with my partner?

Do I ever let my kids see it or overhear tenderness? Why or why not?

How do I demonstrate love to my family?

Do I forget to make an effort in this way after many years of togetherness or the stress of parenting?

If I am separated/divorced, can I speak well of my ex? Can I recall moments of fondness that are important for my child to know about?

How can I demonstrate care/concern to my ex? Why might this still be important for my children?

Any small shifts that I can make?

Be well!