7 signs your child loves you deeply, according to psychology

Eliza Hartley by Eliza Hartley | October 8, 2024, 9:14 am

Navigating parenthood is a complex journey, filled with moments of uncertainty. One common question many parents ask themselves is: does my child truly love me?

This question can often be challenging to answer, as children express their feelings differently from adults. However, psychology offers some insightful indicators that can help decode your child’s expressions of love.

In this article, we will delve into 7 signs that indicate your child loves you deeply, according to psychological research. These signs are subtle yet profound indicators that your little one has immense love for you in their heart.

So, let’s dive in and decode the language of your child’s love.

1) Eye contact

Few things are as powerful as the gaze of a child.

Eye contact is not just a simple act; it’s a powerful form of non-verbal communication. According to psychologists, it plays a significant role in expressing emotions, and in the case of children, it is often a clear sign of affection.

When your child looks into your eyes, they are not just seeking attention; they are trying to connect with you on a deeper level. This silent communication can sometimes express more than words ever could.

If your child maintains eye contact with you during conversations or even in silence, it’s a strong sign of their love for you. They trust you, they value your presence and they’re trying to understand and connect with your emotions.

Remember though, every child is different. If your child isn’t making much eye contact, it doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t love you deeply. They might just express their love in other ways.

Just like adults, children too have their unique ways of expressing emotions.

2) They seek your comfort

In the rollercoaster ride of childhood, there are highs and lows. And during the lows, children often seek comfort from those they trust and love the most.

For instance, my youngest daughter, Lily, is quite the adventurer. She loves exploring our backyard, inspecting every nook and cranny. One day, she had a minor fall and scraped her knee. Despite the presence of her older siblings, she ran straight to me, tears streaming down her face.

In that moment, it wasn’t just about seeking first-aid for her scraped knee. It was about finding solace in my arms, reassurance in my voice, and comfort in my presence. This was Lily’s way of showing that she loves and trusts me deeply.

This is not an isolated incident. Psychology suggests that if your child seeks your comfort during distressing times, it’s a strong indication of their deep love for you.

3) They share with you

Sharing might seem like a simple act for us adults, but for kids, it’s a big deal. It’s not just about handing over a toy or a piece of their favorite candy, it’s about displaying trust, empathy, and affection.

According to a study, children as young as 19 months old have been observed to share their food with adults, even when they themselves are hungry. This act of selflessness is often a sign of their deep affection.

If your child is willing to share their prized possessions with you, it’s a clear sign that they value and love you. They trust you enough to let you in on their little world of treasures.

So next time your child offers you their favorite toy or the last piece of chocolate, remember, it’s not just sharing; it’s an expression of deep love.

4) They show empathy towards you

Empathy is a powerful emotion, and when it comes from your child, it’s even more special.

When your child can sense your emotions and react to them, it’s a clear sign of their deep connection with you. Whether you’re feeling joyful or having a rough day, if they react accordingly – by sharing your joy or trying to comfort you – it shows their love and concern for you.

If your child offers a comforting hug when you’re sad or celebrates with you when you’re happy, it’s their way of showing that they love you and are in tune with your emotions.

This empathetic behavior is a beautiful sign of not just their love for you but also their emotional maturity. It’s a testament to their ability to understand and respond to feelings – theirs and those of others.

5) They include you in their world

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about being included in your child’s world.

Your child’s world is filled with imagination, dreams, and little wonders that are unique to them. When they take the time to pull you into this private universe, it’s like they’re handing you a precious key. A key to their thoughts, their dreams, their fears, and their joys.

They might invite you to a pretend tea party, share stories about their imaginary friends, or simply talk about their day at school. These might seem like small things, but in reality, they are sharing something very intimate – their personal experiences and thoughts.

When your child lets you into their world, it’s a sign of deep love and trust. They see you as someone safe, someone they can confide in and share their most treasured thoughts with.

6) They mirror your behavior

Children are like sponges, they absorb everything around them. One of the most significant influences in a child’s life is their parents. They watch us closely and often mimic our actions, our words, and even our emotions.

I recall a time when I was caught in a stressful situation. My face must have been a clear reflection of my inner turmoil. Later that day, I noticed my son sitting on his play mat, mimicking the same worried expression I had earlier. It was a wake-up call, reminding me of the impact my emotions have on him.

When your child mirrors your behavior, it’s not just imitation; it’s a sign of deep connection and love. They look up to you as their role model and try to emulate you, because to them, you are the best!

This mirroring is a significant sign that they not only love you but also respect and admire you. So next time you catch your child mimicking your actions or expressions, take it as a loving compliment.

7) They express their love openly

Sometimes, the most obvious signs are the ones we overlook.

If your child tells you they love you, hugs you randomly, gives you a peck on the cheek, or shows any other form of physical or verbal affection, take it at face value. It’s their way of expressing their love for you.

These expressions of love are as genuine as they come. Children are incredibly honest with their feelings. If they say they love you, they mean it from the bottom of their hearts.

Never underestimate these simple expressions of love. They are the purest and most beautiful affirmations of your child’s deep love for you.