Hi Everyone! We’re so glad you’ve joined us as we dive into Gary Chapman’s and Ross Campbell’s Love Language #3 from their book, The 5 Love Languages of Children.

Early into this chapter, the authors pinpoint the main concept for their 3rd Love Language, quality time. “Quality time is a parent’s gift of presence to a child. It conveys this message: You are important. I like being with you. Quality time is focused, undivided attention.” 

I think it is hugely helpful when Chapman and Campbell are specific about how parents need to shift and adjust their quality time actions to meet the changing needs of their physically and emotionally developing child. 

In the early years, quality time might be as simple as just sitting and playing with your child on the floor during tummy time and offering encouragement as they begin to take their first steps. When a child’s play begins to expand as cognition and coordination advances, parent interactions should be responsive to new emerging development. Sometimes your child may need some positive encouragement to tackle new activities, and at other times, what your child may need from you is for you to step back and allow them the opportunity to explore and make discoveries on their own. Often quality time can be as easy as just being near your child, watching them and smiling warmly at them, to reassure and remind them, you’re there for them.

Quality time spent with children impacts and influences children’s development at every stage. Think about the last time someone you care about reached out to you and told you they’ve missed you and wanted to get together with you. Didn’t your mood improve instantly? And make you feel valued and that you matter!

Spending quality time with your child, being connected to them, and letting them know how much you love them and want to be with them, will set them up for healthy emotional development now and for years to come. I can’t think of a better present to give your child than your presence. 

In the next blog, we will be unpacking Love Language #4, Gifts.

Hope to see you next time!