My two-year-old daughter, Liah, laughs and says: “Again!” when my husband and I give each other a small peck on the lips. I have to say… my heart melts every single time. It almost makes me want to kiss my husband even more to see her this happy!
And I am sure I'm not the only one out there that has a similar response from their kids. I have heard from multiple couples that their children grab their hands to get them to hold hands, or similarly get their parents to hug by putting their arms on each other.
In addition to this being the cutest thing -don’t you agree?- , there is a real reason why children do this. From the moment children are born, they yearn affection from their parents. Babies want to nurse seeking comfort and want to be held as much as possible. And even though this might look like “spoiling” a baby, there are true biological benefits to this. A baby regulates their own heart rate to the mothers when he is skin-to-skin with his mother, indicating that through touch the baby experiences safety. Without that feeling of safety, a child may not develop well, even if other needs are provided, such as food and shelter.
I like to observe children because they truly remind me of what’s important in life. My daughter getting happy when she sees me kiss my husband, simply reminds me of the importance of touch and affection in our relationships.
I say that it reminds me of this because there is research that proves this. Research shows that when we are touched by a loved one, it provides a feeling of calmness. It produces oxytocin, which is a neurotransmitter that makes us experience love, confidence, and connectedness. When there is a good production of oxytocin, research shows that it results in lower levels of blood pressure and cortisol (stress hormone). Isn’t this amazing!!
THE BEAUTY OF CHILDREN REMINDING THEIR PARENTS TO BE MORE AFFECTIONATE BRING US BACK TO BASICS AND SHOW US THAT IT MAKES THEM FEEL HAPPY TO SEE THEIR PARENTS HAPPY TOGETHER.
We have already discussed why children instinctively ask their parents to be affectionate to one another, but let’s also look at what a child learns when they see their parents close and connected through touch:
It shows them that you find your spouse as a “safe” person. This is a way of showing your children what healthy relationships look like, and as you have already figured out, children copy your behaviors more than what you tell them to do.
It shows them that affection is one way to show love to the people we love and trust the most. This is a valuable life lesson that shows that love does not have to be only shown through material things, but through the simplicity of a hug, caressing, or a kiss.
It shows them that you value your marriage, your partner in life. This can have a wonderful impact on how your children perceive romantic relationships as they grow up. When a child sees that you are not only affectionate to them, but to your spouse as well, it teaches them how to manage more than one relationship without them being in competition: They are both equally but differently important.
We all strive to be the best possible parents. Looking out for the health of our marriage is also a part of good parenting.
To the success of your family!
Your Therapy Friend,
Sofia
This article was featured on www.foreverfreckled.com.
Sofia Robirosa is the owner of Infinite Therapeutic Services and is a Relationships & Parenting Expert. She offers individual, couples, and family counseling to individuals seeking to enhance their relationships. Her private practice is located in Plantation, FL. She attended Nova Southeastern University for both her Bachelor and Master Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and in Business Administration. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, and a Leader in Active Parenting for children and teens, an evidenced based program. She is also a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP). She is a passionately committed therapist, who thoroughly takes pride and joy from her job. She enjoys working with a culturally diverse population and is bilingual in Spanish and English. She is a member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and an active volunteer of the Broward Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. She loves her family, which consists of her husband, daughter, and two dogs. Some of her interests outside of work include spending time outdoors, traveling, and dining. Read more about her at: www.infinitetherapeuticservices.com and follow her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/infinitetherapy/