9 Ways Toddlers Show Their Love

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Toddlers express their love in simple but meaningful ways. At this stage, they are beginning to understand emotions and form attachments, and their love is often shown through actions rather than words. A toddler might give hugs, kisses, or snuggle with caregivers to show affection.

The Love Language of Toddlers: Toddlers may not yet be able to express themselves verbally, but they communicate a wide range of emotions through their behavior and actions. While they will learn more complex communication as they grow, paying attention to nonverbal cues is key to understanding when they show affection. Each child expresses love in their own way, but common signs include physical gestures like hugs or closeness.

Delaying Plans: Toddlers often dawdle when you’re in a hurry because they live in the moment and lack a sense of time. At that age, their primary focus is on being with their parents, as separation is a key developmental challenge. According to Patricia H. Shimm, author of Parenting Your Toddler, toddlers would rather spend time with their parents than anyone else, which makes leaving for appointments or activities difficult. They savor their time with you and may try to prolong it in any way they can.

Challenging You to Chase Them: When toddlers run away with excitement, it reflects their growing independence, but they only do so if they trust you will follow and keep them safe. This “run-and-chase” game shows their belief in having autonomy while relying on you as a secure base. According to Dr. Laura Bennett-Murphy, toddlers need to feel that you are there for them before they can explore the world, and their playful running is actually a sign of their love and trust in you as their primary caregiver.

Bringing Loveys Everywhere: Many toddlers have a “lovey”—a stuffed animal, blanket, or other object they carry with them for comfort, especially when away from their parents. These transitional objects symbolize your love and provide a sense of security in your absence. According to Patricia H. Shimm, loveys help toddlers feel connected to their parents, much like how adults carry sentimental items like photos.

Making a Mess with Food: Toddlers often spend more time exploring their food than eating it, using their hands to touch, mash, and experiment with it. According to Dr. Bennett-Murphy, food is a space for toddlers to satisfy their curiosity and explore new possibilities. When they show you their messy discoveries, like yogurt-covered hands, they are sharing their excitement and delight in learning with you.

Cuddling and Snuggling: When toddlers snuggle with you after a tantrum, it’s their way of seeking comfort and reassurance. Despite their growing independence, they still need to “refuel” emotionally in your arms, knowing you’re there to provide support. According to Dr. Bennett-Murphy, this act of cuddling is their way of expressing love and connection.

Being Happy to See You: When toddlers greet you with excited shrieks and a rush to your arms, it’s a joyful expression of their love and trust. According to Patricia H. Shimm, toddlers build trust by learning that parents will always return after leaving. Their loud, happy screams are a reflection of their emotional attachment and delight in your return.

Sharing: Toddlers rarely share, but when they do, it’s a meaningful act of love. For example, when your toddler offers you a half-licked lollipop, they’re sharing something they cherish with you. By doing so, they believe that what brings them joy will also make you happy. This selfless gesture, even if messy, is a way for them to express affection and love.

Making Arts and Crafts: When toddlers create scribbles, crafts, or messy projects, they’re expressing their love by sharing their creativity and happiness with you. Handing you their artwork shows that you’re always on their mind, and even if the result is a glue-covered paper, it’s their way of saying, “I love you.”

Repeating Routines and Rituals: Toddlers thrive on routine and consistency, such as reading the same book every night or arranging their stuffed animals in a specific order. According to Patricia Shimm, these rituals are comforting because they associate them with love and security. Predictable routines help toddlers feel safe, reinforcing the sense of security, safety, and affection that you provide as a constant in their lives.

Read More: https://childreninfobank.com/safebank/9-ways-toddlers-show-their-love/

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