Here’s the thing: kids don’t always remember the exact words we say, but they always remember how we made them feel. Love is one of those things we assume our family knows; but unless we show it, it can get lost in the noise of busy days, rushed meals, and “just one more email.”
The good news? It doesn’t take grand gestures. Often, it’s the small, consistent actions that whisper louder than the biggest “I love you” ever could. Here are three ways you can show your love – starting today.
1. Be present (phones down, hearts open)
When your child starts talking about their favourite video game, or your teen begins a story that takes approximately three lifetimes to finish, choose presence. Put down the phone, turn toward them, and listen. Presence says: you matter more than my notifications.
And yes, it’s not always convenient. But those moments where you give undivided attention? They’re deposits into the “love bank” your kids will draw on for years to come.
2. Use your words (and not just “I love you”)
“I love you” is powerful, but so are words like:
- “I’m proud of you.”
- “I love the way you think.”
- “Thanks for helping.”
Words can build identity, encourage resilience, and remind our kids that they’re seen for who they are – not just what they do. Around the dinner table, you can start a round of “what I appreciate about you” and watch faces light up. We do this every birthday and it is so encouraging as each person really thinks through what they love and appreciate about the birthday boy or girl. Our Back at the Table app even has conversation starters that make it easy to sprinkle affirmation into family life.
3. Create small rituals of connection
It might be a silly handshake, a hug every morning before school, or always making pizza on Friday nights (which is what we do). These little rituals tell your kids: you are worth of my time and I delight in being with you. They become the glue that holds family memories together.
At the table, rituals might look like always letting the youngest pick the first conversation starter, or going around to share your favourite moment from the day. Small things, but powerful in building love that feels lived, not just spoken.
Final thought
Love isn’t complicated; it’s shown in presence (AKA TIME), words, and rituals. When we choose to show love in these simple ways, our kids (and partners) don’t just hear it, they feel it. And that feeling is what carries them through life.
If you’d like a little help making love visible at the table, check out our Back at the Table web app – full of conversation starters and ideas to make every meal a chance to connect.
