10 Way to say "I love you" to your kids

Valentines day is just a great reminder to speak love to our kids all year long.  So, here are 10 easy ways to say "I love you" to your kid

1. Laugh with them
Maybe look up some jokes, or watch a silly video on Youtube together

2. Give them your full attention
Make a point of putting your phone down, making gentle eye contact and letting your face light up when your child wants to tell you something about their day.

3. Knock
Knock before entering your child's room, as a way of demonstrating love, and respect for their space. 

4. Ask their thoughts/ opinion
What a great way to show love, by asking, listening and respecting our kid's ideas and opinions.

5. Relate a story about the day your child was born, or entered your family
Kids love to hear how special and wanted they are, and how their parents anticipated their arrival with joy.

6. Make something ordinary, a little extra special.
Maybe poor sparkling grape juice in fancier cups, or set the table in a special way.

7. Verbalize strengths
Tell your children about the strengths you see in them.  Are they a good friend, kind to the pets, organized, creative, funny... let them know you see those strengths.

8. Give physical affection they enjoy.
For one kid it might be a big bear hug, and for another it's a side hug, a shoulder rub, a high five, or a kiss on the forehead.

9. Give them a special tuck in at bedtime.
If you follow a faith tradition, this is a great time for a blessing.  It's also a good time for extra hugs, sharing a fun memory from the day, or tucking them in tight "like a burrito".

10. Say "I love you"
Your kids are never too old or young to need those words.  Say it often.  I love telling my kids, "Hey, I have a top secret, secret for you...." 
They immediately try to say "You love me", as I'm telling them the top secret, secret. "I LOVE YOU!"  Then I feign shock that they already seemed to know this secret that was so top-secret. 

I'd love to hear other favorite ways you speak love to your kids.