Don't Be Afraid to Be Affectionate and Express Love Openly
Look, if you’ve ever felt like hugging your kid in public might get you a ticket from the Unspoken Dad Police, this one’s for you. We’re talking about going full Hallmark Channel—without the background music or the perfect hair. If the thought of saying 'I love you' out loud makes you sweat more than assembling a crib, grab a coffee and read on. Spoiler: nobody melts from too many cuddles, except maybe you.
Open affection builds your child’s sense of security and belonging, literally wiring their little brains for trust and resilience. When you express love, their brains light up like a pinball machine, releasing oxytocin (the feel-good cuddle hormone) and reducing stress. For you, too, it’s a hit of happy chemicals—plus, it chips away at that old-school myth that dads should be stoic robots. Everybody wins, except maybe your personal space.
How to do it
Start small with simple gestures, like a quick ruffle of the hair, a pat on the back, or a goofy wink. These little actions can go a long way in showing affection.
Say it out loud—even if it feels weird at first. "I love you" isn’t just for bedtime or emergencies; let your child hear it often and in different situations.
Make it a habit to express your love daily, not just on birthdays or after they’ve accomplished something impressive. Consistency helps reinforce your feelings.
Mix it up to keep things fun and engaging. Try high-fives, silly dances, or even just sitting close together during a cartoon marathon. Variety makes your affection feel spontaneous and genuine.
Remember, there’s no such thing as too much love—unless you’re smothering them with kisses while they’re on a Zoom call. In that case, maybe dial it back a notch.
Key Tips:
- Small gestures matter just as much as grand ones.
- Verbal affirmations are powerful, even if they feel awkward at first.
- Consistency builds security and trust.
- Change up your expressions of love to keep things fresh.
- Be mindful of timing and context—sometimes less is more!
