The Number of Loving Touches Your Child Needs a Day, According to Science

We already know about the importance of a mother’s touch to a baby right after birth, but you should know that your child will never outgrow your loving touch. They gain immensely from their parents’ expressions of love and affection, even as simple as a hug. The advantages are numerous and backed by scientific research — and they will make you want to wrap your little one in an embrace.

Hugging helps you bond with your kids

Just like how affectionate actions can help bolster the relationships between couples and friends, they can also strengthen the bond between a parent and a child. Hugs have been proven to help increase children’s trust in their parents as well as promote a secure sense of attachment between them.

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Hugging will help calm your child down

Tantrums are common and happen regularly, especially when they reach toddler age, and it's not always easy to manage. However, one great way to rein your child in when they’re losing their temper is by giving them a hug. Research has shown that hugs help trigger the release of oxytocin, a neurotransmitter and hormone that is associated with several health benefits, one of which is lowering the level of stress hormones and counteracting the anxiety that those stress hormones trigger. It can also help him learn to handle his emotions better.

Hugging can boost your child’s self-esteem

Giving your child your love and care helps build a strong foundation that will help him see himself in a positive light. Your affection shows him he is worthy of your love and care, and it empower hims in the way they interact with the world.

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Hugging impacts your child’s health positively

Yes, it uplifts the mood, but lots of studies have shown that hugging is associated with boosting the immune system. When you hug your child, the thymus gland is stimulated; this gland helps keep the body’s production of white blood cells regulated and well-balanced, so that your child is even more protected from different kinds of diseases.

How to make hugging a habit

Hugging is just one way to make your child constantly feel loved. Affection can be expressed easily throughs words and actions, and it's crucial it becomes part of your everyday routine. According to experts, children need a minimum of eight loving touches every day for a stable connection. Here are a few simple things you can do.

Be present

The best way to make showing your child your love part of your daily routine is by simply being there. Be there when they wake up. Be there to receive them when they arrive home from school. Be there before they go to bed. Take advantage of every available opportunity to express your love for your child.

Talk with your child

Another easy way to connect with your child is by talking with them. Use every chance you can get to start a conversation with your child, whether by asking them about how their day was or giving them a fun question to encourage dinner table talk. It doesn’t even have to be a deep or serious conversation!

Also, when you converse with your child, get down on his eye level. It's is a great way to show your child that you are giving them your undivided attention and sincerely listening to what they are actually saying.

Keep it simple

Finally, don’t stress too much about showing your love to your child in a very elaborate manner. It’s not about how big or small your actions are—what’s more important is the genuine love that action expresses.

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