Showing Affection

I have had my concerns as to whether the kids are getting enough affection. However, I am not too worried about it anymore. I realized that I do give them hugs all throughout the day. I play around and give them kisses on the cheek and forehead. They giggle and laugh saying, “NO, no kisses!”

They really like it though.

Daniel used to refuse any sort of touching even when deep pressure was the one thing he needed most. I can relate. I do not like being touched. I do not like holding hands. I do not like to be hugged. I do not like kisses! It is different with my kids. I do not mind any of that with them on most days, it can be too much if I am anxious or overwhelmed.

I was concerned that I would not be able to give them the affection that they needed.

It was due to how my mom handled affection. I have written about it before when I was around five years-old, she basically stopped all forms of physical affection. There were no hugs, no kisses, and the “I love you’s” stopped somewhere around then as well. She assumed I should know and there was no reason for me to be reminded. She did say I love you sometimes through my life, but normally it was said in a “crisis” type of situation or on birthday cards.

I understand now, that my mom was not purposely doing this to me.
 Continued ... Showing Affection