- Delaying Plans: You know the drill! Whenever you’re in a rush, your toddler seems to discover the wonders of every little thing in the house. This dawdling isn’t just mischief; it’s their way of savoring time with you. Remember, “Separation is the main task of toddlerhood,” explains parenting expert Patricia H. Shimm.
- Challenging You to Chase: When your toddler playfully darts away, they’re not just being cheeky; they’re actually testing their independence while assuring themselves you’ll be right behind them. It’s a beautiful display of trust and love, knowing you’re their safe base.
- Bringing Loveys Everywhere: Whether it’s a beloved stuffed animal or a favorite blanket, these transitional objects hold a piece of you in your toddler’s heart. They help your little one feel secure, just like how adults cherish photos or mementos of loved ones!
- Making a Mess with Food: Yes, it may look like a disaster zone, but for your toddler, mealtime is a chance to explore and share joy! According to Dr. Bennett-Murphy, their messy hands are simply expressions of delight in discovery.
- Cuddling and Snuggling: In the midst of tantrums and chaos, those precious cuddle sessions on your lap are their way of saying, “I love you.” They crave that comfort and reassurance, knowing you’re always there for them.
- Being Happy to See You: That exuberant shriek and dash into your arms when you return home? Pure love! Every time you leave and come back, you’re building their trust in your bond.
- Sharing: Sharing is rare for toddlers, but when they offer you a sticky half-licked lollipop, know that it’s a sweet gesture of affection. They believe what makes them happy will bring you joy too!
- Making Arts and Crafts: When your little ones excitedly hand you their colorful scribbles and creative messes, they are sharing a piece of their heart with you. It’s a tangible expression of admiration and thoughtfulness.
- Repeating Routines and Rituals: Those bedtime stories or the way they insist on wearing the same shirt every day? This love for routine isn’t just about consistency; it’s about the comfort and reassurance that your presence provides.
So the next time your toddler engages in these adorable quirks, remember: they’re not just being toddlers; they’re sharing their love in the most genuine ways possible!
9 Ways Toddlers Show Their Love
Toddlers have their own unique love language that expresses their affection for parents and caregivers. Here are some surprising behaviors through which your little one might demonstrate their love.
01. The Love Language of Toddlers
Even though toddlers may not have developed strong verbal skills, they express emotions and affection through behaviors and actions. Understanding their nonverbal cues is essential because it allows you to recognize moments when they are feeling affectionate. Here are several ways toddlers may express their love for you:
02. Delaying Plans
When you’re in a rush, a toddler often seems to dawdle, playing with toys or exploring their surroundings. “Separation is the main task of toddlerhood,” according to Patricia H. Shimm, author of Parenting Your Toddler. They prefer being with their parents, so dragging their feet can be a sign that they want to prolong their time with you.
03. Challenging You to Chase Them
When your toddler runs away gleefully, it showcases their independence, but it’s also an invitation for you to join in on the fun. As Dr. Laura Bennett-Murphy explains, by playing a running game, toddlers are demonstrating their confidence that you will always be there to catch them.
04. Bringing Loveys Everywhere
Many toddlers have special “loveys”—stuffed animals, blankets, or other transitional objects—that they take everywhere. These items can symbolize the comfort and love of their parents, serving as a tangible reminder of your presence even when you’re not around.
05. Making a Mess with Food
You might notice that your little one spends more time squishing, mashing, and exploring food rather than eating it. This messiness is part of their learning experience; as Dr. Bennett-Murphy notes, they are expressing their curiosity about the world—a reflection of their desire to share joy and discoveries with you.
06. Cuddling and Snuggling
After a long day, when your toddler snuggles into your lap, it’s a declaration of trust and love. Dr. Bennett-Murphy points out that snuggling indicates a need for comfort and connection. Your embrace recharges their emotional batteries.
07. Being Happy to See You
When you arrive home and are met with an enthusiastic sprint into your arms, it’s a heartwarming sign of their love and trust. As Patricia H. Shimm explains, these joyous greetings reveal the emotional foundation they build as they learn you will always come back.
08. Sharing
Though toddlers are typically reluctant to share, they may occasionally surprise you by offering you a bite of their favorite treat. This behavior signals that they want to share something special with you, fully believing that what makes them happy will also make you happy.
09. Making Arts and Crafts
Creating art is another way a toddler expresses love. Whether it’s scribbling with crayons or crafting gluey projects, each creation is a symbol of their affection. When they present their artistic endeavors to you, it’s a heartfelt offering that showcases their joy and love.
10. Repeating Routines and Rituals
Toddlers thrive on consistency and ritual. Whether it’s sharing a bedtime story or a morning routine, these daily practices are not just comforting—they also represent the bond they share with you. According to Shimm, their attachment to these routines brings them a sense of security and love.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Delaying Plans | Toddlers dawdle as they savor time with their parents. |
| Challenging You to Chase Them | Running away showcases their independence and trust that you will follow. |
| Bringing Loveys Everywhere | Transitional objects represent parental love, providing comfort when apart. |
| Making a Mess with Food | Food experimentation reflects curiosity; toddlers share discoveries through play. |
| Cuddling and Snuggling | Snuggling signifies their need for comfort and connection. |
| Being Happy to See You | Excited greetings demonstrate trust and joy in your presence. |
| Sharing | Offering favorite items signifies their love and willingness to share happiness. |
| Making Arts and Crafts | Creating art for parents reflects their affection and creative happiness. |
| Repeating Routines and Rituals | Consistent routines provide security and represent parental love. |
