As a mom to three little boys, life can get overwhelming quickly. I think one of the hardest things, for me, is spending quality time with them. There is always something or someone vying for my attention.
As a Stonyfield Ambassador, I was asked to read and share my thoughts on the recent article on Babble.com, The One Question You Should Ask Your Child Tonight. We all have kids in our lives we love, but how we show our love… and how they receive love are something else entirely.
The one question you should ask your child tonight was something I felt compelled to try with my own children. Their answers were hilarious, candid, honest, and gave me insight into who they are and how they feel loved.
The two questions I asked my children have everything to do with finding out your child’s love language. The five love languages are: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Gifts and Physical Touch.
“How do you feel love?”
My oldest (10) said he feels love the most when I cheer for him (loudly) at his soccer games. Quality time? Words of Affirmation?
My middle (7) said he feels love when I spend time with him. Quality time? Words of Affirmation?
My youngest (6 ) said he feels love when I buy him stuff. Gifts!
I followed this up with the second question below. As their mom, I am able to observe their love languages. Two of my boys love languages are blaringly obvious to me. While my oldest son’s love language (expression and how he receives love) are a bit more complex. Asking the second question really opened up my eyes and heart.
“How can I help you feel loved?”
I loved changing up the question just a bit by asking how they feel loved. Pretty much how they receive my love when they feel they are being shown love. Love languages… all 3 boys receive it differently. They all answered different again and unique to their individual personalities.
My oldest (10) shared that he feels love when I spend time with him and help him. Acts of Service and Quality time.
My middle (7) son shared that he feels love when I spend time with him. Quality time. Although I do need to add he is so Words of Affirmation too!
My youngest (6 ) shared that he feels love when I write him love notes and snuggle him. Gifts and Physical Touch.
One simple question.
Ellen Christian says
Interesting question. I’ll have to check with my kids and see what they think.
Scott says
We’ve asked this of them before and have been very happy with their responses. Lets us know we’re parenting them right!
Danielle @ From Girlie to Nerdy says
This is such a great idea. I’ve used the love languages with my husband, but never thought to do some with my son.
Heather Johnson says
I tell my kiddos that I love them all the time and I ask them if they feel loved all the time.
Marysa says
This is a good reminder how much our kids love attention and quality time spent with them. I do need to spend more one-on-one time with my kids.
Marcie W. says
Your kids are adorable and I love the thoughtfulness behind this activity. I think we will have this discussion as a family this weekend.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
These questions would make for a great conversation, as well as providing an insight into the relationship.
Erika says
Awww, this is such a neat question to ask kids. I am going to ask my own.
Heather Johnson says
I tell my kids that I love them all the time and I ask them if they feel loved all the time.