Guest Blogger: Melanie Nichols
This March, we are sharing a special series of blog posts from Melanie Nichols. This series was originally posted in February 2021. You can find Melanie and her blog here. If you would like to submit to our blog, please email us.
Words of Affirmation. Physical Touch. Acts of Service. Gifts. Quality Time. These are the 5 Love Languages, according to the popular book by Gary Chapman. The basic premise behind the writing is that we have a preferred way or “language” to communicate and receive love. When our preference differs from others, it can affect whether or not we feel loved – even when the other person is trying to demonstrate their love. Many people have embraced the idea of learning to speak the Love Language of their spouse or significant other to better communicate their love for each other. Did you know similar principles apply when showing love to the kids in our homes and classrooms?
The book The 5 Love Languages of Children, also by Gary Chapman, discusses how we can determine which Love Languages our children prefer and explains how we can communicate our love using that preferred language. It also identifies things to avoid that, based on their primary love language, can be particularly harmful to our relationships. Young children – especially under 5 years old – don’t typically have a preferred love language yet, and all kids need to be shown love using all 5 languages. Sometimes using a love language that is not our preferred one can be uncomfortable. Still, it is something we can willingly do when we realize how important it is to good relationships. Knowing which language speaks love most clearly to our kids and using it regularly will help them feel secure and confident in their place in our hearts.
5 Love Languages for Children – available at Amazon
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