7 Ways Your Children Show Affection

7 Ways Your Children Show Affection

Last update: 21 January, 2018

The love that you feel for your baby is undeniable, starting from the moment you find out they’ll be coming into the world. But how can you tell that your baby loves you? How do young children show affection?

Being born into this world is a transcendental phase for a human being because they arrive to a totally unknown universe that they’ll start to discover little by little.

One of the first things your baby will understand is that you are always present when they need you most. They will see you as someone who helps them at all times.

Babies Recognize Their Mother As An Inexhaustible Source Of Love And Protection

At first, you’re going to realize that motherhood is a selfless act; you give without receiving anything in return, except for the peace of knowing your child is okay.

But, as they grow, you will begin to notice certain changes in how they interact with you and their environment, which may surprise you.

Suddenly, you’ll notice how they stare into your eyes or try to grab hold of your finger in a quick movement. And so begins the beautiful stage in which you will delight in their growth, until the incredible day comes when they consistently call you “Mom.”

At this moment, you will know that giving them life was worth the effort and this will give you more strength to move forward.

7 Ways Your Child Will Show Affection

how does your baby show affection
  1. As soon as they leave your belly, your baby will recognize you as a source of protection who gave them life.

That bond will never be broken and can be strengthened with the most beautiful gift a mother can offer: her unconditional affection.

For their part, your child will be maturing as the days go by and they will show you how much they adore you in the following ways:

  1. Newborns will try to look into their mothers‘ eyes. 

This is proof of their continuous quest to memorize your face. Even if they don’t understand anything that is going on around them yet, they already know that you’re a transcendental person to them.

  1. Between 8 and 12 months, they begin to think about you even when you’re not near them.

You’ll see how they will frown as they to try to locate you in their surroundings and how they will look for you everywhere. Once you show up, their face will light up with a big smile.

  1. When they are between 12 and 24 months old, you will soon see tantrums when you leave or do not give them what they want.

Do not think they’ve stopped loving you when this happens. On the contrary, they feel safe enough to show you when they are upset, and know that doing this does not affect how you feel about them.

  1. From 24 to 36 months old, they will desperately run into your arms if they ever fall or feel sad.

They still do not fully understand the meaning of a special phrase like “I love you,” but they show their love to you with the way they act.

During their school-age years, they understand the importance of doing special things for you, like giving you a flower that they found in the garden, or a gift they made with recyclable materials.

At times like these, there is no doubt that they are showing their affection.

  1. They need your constant approval.

They want your attention and try to help you with what you are doing.

  1. Then, they will feel like they can tell you their secrets

They feel they like can share their secrets with you, such as something that happened to them at school or their first love. You will be a special confidant for them.

Children Also Show Their Affection To Their Fathers

how does your baby show affection

Fathers play an important role in the development of their little ones. Although they weren’t the ones to go through pregnancy or childbirth, fathers are another figure who must express positive sentiments to their children.

A father’s love contributes to their child’s foundation for becoming a happy adult.

Between the father and baby, nothing will get in the way of the true love they share. Of course, it is essential that the father be there for the baby, talk to them still in the mother’s womb, hold them the day they are born, care for them, and accompany them in difficult times.

That closeness and affection is just as valuable as the mother’s, and will help the child to become a well-rounded person.

Parenting is teamwork, which is why being in sync with each other is the key to success. Both parents should respect the way they establish a bond with their child, and foster a space for the whole family to grow closer.


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This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.