Love Them Deeply—But Not Like a Human Vending Machine 🍭
Let me start with this: I’ve fought hard to become a mom. Five years of infertility, IVF, hormone shots, heartbreak, hope, and then finally, my daughter. And now? I'm preparing for baby number two—while running a business, managing a toddler, and trying not to lose myself in the daily circus of parenting and personal growth.
So trust me when I say: I want my kids to feel loved. Deeply. Wildly. Without a doubt. But I also don’t want to raise a future diva who demands goldfish crackers at 3 a.m. like she’s Beyoncé on tour.
Here’s how I’ve learned to balance love with limits—and raise kids who feel secure, seen, and spoiled with love, not stuff.
💬 Say It And Show It
- Say "I love you" often—but also back it up with attention.
- Put your phone down and be present (yes, even if they’re describing the plot of Paw Patrol in excruciating detail).
🤲 Quality Over Quantity
- You don’t need hours—you need intention.
- 10 minutes of undivided attention often means more than a full day of distracted time.
🚫 Don't Say Yes to Everything
- Boundaries = safety. Kids feel more secure when there are rules.
- You’re not a bad parent for saying no to a 5th cookie. Or the 47th toy at the store.
🎯 Praise the Effort, Not the Outcome
- Instead of “You’re so smart,” try “I love how hard you tried!”
- Encourages growth mindset and resilience.
🧘 Model Emotional Regulation
- Teach them love through your calm, your apologies, your patience.
- Kids mimic what they see more than what they’re told.
💌 Write Notes or Do Little Acts
- Lunchbox notes, a heart on the bathroom mirror, or a tiny surprise in their sock drawer.
- It’s the smallest things that become their biggest memories.
🛑 Teach Gratitude and Empathy
- Talk about giving to others, being thankful, and recognizing privilege.
- Practice giving back—together.
💡 Let Them Experience Boredom
- You don’t have to entertain them 24/7.
- Let them get creative, solve problems, and be okay with not getting everything they want.
❤️ Final Thoughts: Love Isn’t About More. It’s About Meaning.
The most powerful kind of love isn’t flashy. It’s steady, secure, and soul-filling. You’re already enough—your love, your limits, your presence.
So go ahead. Say no. Hold boundaries. And still love the heck out of them.
Because raising kind, grounded kids who know they’re loved? That’s the ultimate win.