Touches That Say A Lot

From FOCUS ON THE FAMILY, Today, 08-Apr-2008 edition

 

TOUCHES THAT SAY A LOT

By Dr Bill Maier

 

One of the greatest things you can do for your kids’ self-image

is to give them meaningful touches throughout the day. This

could be as simple as tousling your son’s hair or wrestling

with him in the living room. A father may draw his daughter

close under the umbrella while they wait for the school bus

in the rain. A mother can give her kids a quick hug when

they come through the door.

 

To kids, these simple touches and hugs mean everything.

They say to them: “You’re special” and “I love having you near”.

 

And they provide emotional comfort and feelings of

acceptance and approval. Children who grow up with

a lot of hugs and meaningful touches in the family

actually do better later in life, and tend to be happier

and better adjusted.

 

One study has shown that it takes eight to 10 meaningful

touches each day to maintain emotional and physical health.

So, if you want to bless your children, this is one simple –

and important – way to do so.