Guess how much I love you?

Do you ever read the book 'Guess how much I love you?' - we used to read it a lot to our kids. It's such a beautiful story.

Kids thrive on predictability and rituals - which is why the love like the same books and the same bedtime routines. It makes them feel safe and secure.

The other thing that makes them feel secure is when we express our love to them in different ways than just saying 'I love you'

I was asked on instagram this week what are good phrases to say to our children to make their self-esteem grow and to have them know just how much we love them.

So here is a list - try a couple each day. You'll be amazed how much it can deepen your connection,. A child who feels connected with us and loved unconditionally will be less likely to misbehave.

1. When you were at school today I thought about you a lot
   
   
2. When you give me a big hug, it makes me the happiest person in the world. You give the best hugs.
   
   
3. I love it when you giggle. It makes me want to giggle too and laughing is so good for us.
   
   
4. You ask such interesting questions. Your mind is really working hard and growing every day.
   
   
5. I love it when you tell me things.
   
   
6. I am SO happy to see you in the morning/when I pick you up from school.
   
   
7. You should feel so proud of yourself for xxx - I am really proud of you too!  
   
   
8. I love when we snuggle at night, it makes me feel so close to you.
   
   
9. You were so sweet when you were a tiny baby, do you know what you used to do? (Kids LOVE hearing about when they were 'little'
   
   
10. I love you so much I want to zip myself open and put you inside me!