Parenting Tips: The 5 Love Languages of Kids

Jun 22, 20232 min read

Updated: Jul 10, 2023

You know you love your child. But how can you make sure your child knows it? By discovering your child's primary love language and learning how to speak it, you will be well on your way to a stronger relationship with your child. Sonja and Amanda from our parenting team share the five love languages of kids and some tips on how you can show each one!

The information below was adapted from the book 'The Five Love Languages of Children' by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell and 'Family Time' by Gary Chapman and Jen Mickelborough.

1. Quality Time: Make eye contact with your child and engage in conversations to get to know your child while spending time together.

How to show this:

Cook together
Go for a walk in the park
Read together
Sing/dance together
Plan a day together

2. Physical Touch: One of the first love languages children can respond to is physical touch, whether it’s hugging, snuggling or holding hands.

How to show this:

Hugs
Kiss on forehead
Squeeze on shoulder
Holding your child while reading together
Piggyback rides, play wrestling

3. Receiving Gifts: Homemade gifts can be even more special than something bought in a store. Wrapping or presenting your gift in a fun way will make the experience even more enjoyable.

How to show this:

Add something to a collection (rocks, stickers)
Give something that lasts, like a poem or a song
Hide small gifts in your child's lunchbox

4. Acts of Service: When your child asks you for help getting the task done isn't the only thing on their mind. They are also looking for your emotional support.

How to show this:

Help them practice or learn sports they are interested in
Make their favourite meal
Help repair a broken toy
Help them pick out clothes

5. Words of Affirmation: Positive words and praise mean so much to every child, but they are music to the ears of children whose love language is Words of Affirmation.

How to show this: