With busy work schedules and tight deadlines, it’s easy to neglect to show affection to our loved ones through simple gestures. Most parents get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that comes with having children, often forgetting that the most important thing they can do for their little ones is to give them a simple hug.

In 2010, Duke University Medical Centre researchers found that infants with affectionate and attentive parents grew up to be happier, more resilient, and less anxious adults. This study began when the babies were just eight months old, assessing their mother’s affection and physical touch. The participants returned to the study in their thirties and were interviewed about their emotional health. The study concluded that the adults whose mothers showed “extravagant” or “caressing” affection were much less likely than the others to feel stressed and anxious.

Furthermore, the study also found this is most likely due to the production of oxytocin in the earlier stages of life. Oxytocin is a chemical proven to help parents bond with their children, augmenting a sense of trust and support. This bond most likely allows our brain to produce and use oxytocin, causing a child to feel more positive emotions.

Here are a few ways of how you can show your child that you love them:

Tell your bundle of joy you love them every day

As basic as it may sound, telling your bundle of joy you love them daily is crucial. When children know they are loved because of who they are and not because of what they have done, they begin to realise the value of their lives. Furthermore, loved children grow to become secure in knowing they will always have somebody by their side. Your little one will not only see you as their cheerleader during their football games at school but also in the game of life.

Show affection to your child when disciplining them

A new wave of parenting called “gentle parenting” has been widely embraced and discussed on social media. In essence, gentle parenting is rooted in compassion and care. Instead of yelling at your toddler, speak to them calmly. While explaining to them why their actions were wrong, make sure to touch them; perhaps you could put your hand on their shoulder or hold their hands. This gentle sign of affection will help them focus on you when teaching them about their behaviour. It also subconsciously lets them know you are still there for them.

Showing affection to children helps them feel connected and secure. At the same time, it teaches them how to be affectionate and show empathy and love. These traits are hard to teach children, especially in an age of less physical touch and more screen time.

Small, simple gestures of affection go a long way in a world of less skin-to-skin contact.