

{"id":6889,"date":"2016-03-12T11:52:25","date_gmt":"2016-03-12T11:52:25","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/?p=6889"},"modified":"2025-06-11T10:04:38","modified_gmt":"2025-06-11T10:04:38","slug":"25-things-that-kids-love","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/parenting\/25-things-that-kids-love\/","title":{"rendered":"What Do Kids Like These Days? 31 Fun Things You Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"wp-image-6890 size-full alignnone\" title=\"25 Fun Things Kids Love a Lot\" src=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/03\/86.jpg\" alt=\"25 Fun Things Kids Love a Lot\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, it&rsquo;s the smallest things that light up a child&rsquo;s whole world. Saying yes to an extra bedtime story, letting them pick the movie for family night, or remembering how they like their sandwich cut&mdash;it all matters. These moments may seem tiny to us, but to kids, they&rsquo;re everything.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>They want to feel seen, heard, and truly loved.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When you do something just because it makes them smile, it stays with them.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What do kids like these days?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Often, it&rsquo;s not big or flashy&mdash;it&rsquo;s the everyday love tucked into the little things that make them feel special.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What do kids like these days? 31 things<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids&rsquo; interests are always changing, but some things never go out of style&mdash;fun, creativity, and feeling understood. From toys and games to activities and small everyday joys, kids tend to gravitate toward what makes them feel happy and engaged.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>This study followed <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC9540249\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">93 children<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and found that making choices, playing freely, learning, and interacting&mdash;&mdash;helped improve flexible thinking skills<\/p><\/div><br><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&rsquo;re wondering what do kids like these days, here&rsquo;s a list of things kids like to do that covers what&rsquo;s popular, entertaining, and meaningful to them right now.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>1. Undivided attention<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the things children love the most is, getting full attention. But, isn&rsquo;t it true with we adults as well?<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> So, put that phone away and meet your child eye to eye.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Really pay attention to them, and nothing else, and they will shower you with the purest love in the world.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/343645889_The_Contribution_of_Parents_Attention_to_Student_Achievement_Motivation#:~:text=It%20was%20used%20instrument%20%22Wira,to%20improve%20student%20achievement%20motivation.&amp;text=Content%20may%20be%20subject%20to%20copyright.&amp;text=Vol.,55%2D63!&amp;text=Contents!,Redwhitepress!&amp;text=ISSN:!,(Electronic)!&amp;text=Journal!homepage:!,\/index.php\/jles!\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">study<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of 233 teens found that parental attention contributes meaningfully to children&rsquo;s drive to succeed.<\/p><\/div><br><\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Sit down with them after school for 10 minutes, no distractions, just listening to how their day went.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>2. Their world<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It seems like one of the things what do kids like these days is living in a continual world of make-believe. As a parent, you have to be responsible and level-headed. But, once in a while, step outside of the adult zone and act more child-like.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>One excellent way to do this is to join their make-believe world.&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>The trial with preschoolers showed that <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/319834891_Dramatic_pretend_play_games_uniquely_improve_emotional_control_in_young_children\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dramatic pretend play<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&mdash;acting out characters and emotions&mdash;uniquely improved children&rsquo;s ability to regulate their emotions.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Pretend to be a customer at their &ldquo;pretend restaurant&rdquo; and let them take your silly food order.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>3. Creative pursuits<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids love to create, even if what they are painting or gluing together isn&rsquo;t a masterpiece. <\/span><b>The important part is the process.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is one of the most important lessons to be learned, as we, grown-ups are always more result-oriented. And, amidst the race of achieving success, we forget enjoying the process and living life!<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Set up a simple art station with paper, crayons, and glue, and let them create freely without direction.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>4. Dance parties<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are ruminating over what do kids like these days, dancing is what they love! Dancing allows them to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/parenting\/give-your-child-freedom-of-expression\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">express themselves freely<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and also, it is one of the best ways to exercise.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>So, get a bunch of kid dance tunes going and let loose! <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Show your kids some of your own dance moves.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Have a five-minute dance break after homework time using their favorite upbeat song.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>5. Cuddles<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cuddling is one of the things that all kids love. Kids need physical touch, and nothing is better than cuddles. Some kids ask for them, and others act up until you realize that they need a little love.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>So, when you realize that your kids are unreasonably cranky, now you know what needs to be done!<\/b><\/p>\n<p><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p><a href=\"https:\/\/pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/articles\/PMC2865952\/\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Research<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> shows that positive touch can enhance the overall development of children.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Snuggle up with them on the couch while watching their favorite cartoon or reading a book.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-34449 size-full\" title=\"Undivided attention\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/Discipline-with-Love-How-to-Talk-to-Kids.jpg\" alt=\"Undivided attention\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<h3><b>6. Close friends<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids love their parents, and nothing can alter this fact. But, at the same time, it is also true that they need people of their own age who love and accept them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>So, always encourage and help them foster friendships with other great kids.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Invite a friend over for a playdate and give them space to play, talk, and bond freely.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>7. Structure<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids won&rsquo;t tell in words that they need rules and boundaries, but they will with their actions.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br><\/span><b>Kids who test boundaries and rules are actually checking the structure to see how strong it is<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. When they realize it is strong, they feel more secure.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>Research indicates that routines provide children with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/zerotothrive.org\/routines-for-kids\/#:~:text=Research%20shows%20that%20routines%20support,blocks%20of%20good%20mental%20health.\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">sense of security<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, helping them manage stress and emotions effectively.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Stick to a consistent bedtime routine&mdash;even on weekends&mdash;to give them predictability and comfort.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>8. You notice things about them<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maybe your middle child is hilarious. So, if you point out that he is a comedian, it will make him all the more excited.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This way, when you notice something about your children, and you reinforce a trait to them, <\/span><b>it will help them feel good and aid in building their confidence.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Say something like, &ldquo;I love how kind you were to your friend today,&rdquo; to make them feel seen.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>9. Choice<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Well, when you are thinking about what do kids like these days, try to also focus on what they don&rsquo;t like. For example, children obviously don&rsquo;t like to be told what to do.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As they age, they especially appreciate choices. Even if it&rsquo;s a matter of choosing between which chores to do, or when they do to them, <\/span><b>they love the power of choice. It helps them have a little bit of control.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ask, &ldquo;Do you want to brush your teeth before or after getting into pajamas?&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>10. Quiet time<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids also need moments of calm and quiet to recharge their energy. <\/span><b>Having a peaceful space or some downtime helps them feel balanced and safe, especially after busy or noisy activities.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Quiet time encourages mindfulness and self-awareness from a young age.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Example: Create a cozy nook with pillows and books where your child can relax whenever they want.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-28809 size-full\" title=\"Cuddles\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/Find-balance-in-motherhood-with-these-useful-insights.jpg\" alt=\"Cuddles\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<h3><b>11. Traditions<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Birthday, festivals and other<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/family\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">family<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> traditions are the things kids like. <\/span><b>These occasions allow them to get involved in various activities with their families and help them in fostering a feeling of togetherness.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When birthdays or holidays come, children look forward to decorating and celebrating in the same way your family chooses to celebrate.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let your child pick the cake flavor or choose the decorations for their birthday party each year.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>12. Photos and stories<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sure, they haven&rsquo;t been alive all that long, but looking back at pictures of themselves and hearing stories about when they were little are things that kids truly appreciate.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So <\/span><b>print some pictures for an album and tell them about when they were born, learning to talk, etc.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Create a &ldquo;memory night&rdquo; where you flip through old photos and share one silly or sweet story each.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>13. Cooking<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t believe it? Cooking is one of the things kids love to do, especially when they are seeking some creative indulgence.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get your child a little apron and invite them to get mixing! <\/span><b>Whether it&rsquo;s helping to make dinner or making a special treat, your little one will love just cooking together.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Let them stir pancake batter or place toppings on homemade pizzas during weekend meals.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>14. Playing outside<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the answers to what little kids like to do is, they love playing outside! <\/span><b>Children get cabin fever if they&rsquo;ve been cooped up too long. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, throw the ball back and forth, hop on your bikes, or go for a hike. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.unicef.org\/eca\/stories\/importance-outdoor-play-and-how-support-it\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get outdoors <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and have fun playing.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set up a mini obstacle course in the backyard using cones, chairs, or chalk paths.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>15. Not to be in a rush<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomping in puddles and smelling the flowers are just part of the fun when a kid goes anywhere. So if you&rsquo;re headed to the store or doctor&rsquo;s office together, leave early to factor in some time to not be in a rush.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plan an extra 10 minutes on the walk home so they can collect pebbles or stop to watch ants.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-17356 size-full\" title=\"A predictable schedule\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/09\/How-Parents-Can-Help-Kids-With-Homework.jpg\" alt=\"A predictable schedule\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<h3><b>16. Grandma and grandpa time<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids have a special kinship with their grandparents, and <\/span><b>spending quality time with them is one of the things kids love with all their heart.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> So, help facilitate a special time with their grandparents when they can bond.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Schedule a regular video call or in-person visit where grandparents share stories or do simple crafts together.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/family\/rules-for-grandparents\/\" title=\"11 Grandparenting Rules to Foster Love &#038; Strengthen Family Ties\">11 Grandparenting Rules to Foster Love &#038; Strengthen Family Ties<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>17. Showing interest<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maybe her love of the moment is a movie you don&rsquo;t really like, but showing some interest in it will mean the world to your child.<\/span><b> Showing interest in the things kids love can bring them close to you and take your bonding to another level.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch one episode of their favorite cartoon with them, and ask what they like about it afterward<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>18. Their artwork<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Proudly displaying their creations is undoubtedly one of the things kids love. It makes them feel proud! Appreciate your kids when they do that.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the same time,<\/span><b> encourage them to get better at their artwork by offering gentle praise,<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> asking about their drawings, and giving them space to express freely.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Hang their latest drawing on the fridge and say, &ldquo;I love how you used so many colors&mdash;tell me about this part!&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>19. Regular one-on-one time<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Especially if you have several kids, they each need their own time with you to connect and feel special. So, make sure <\/span><b>to spend some one-on-one time with your kids and get heartily involved in things kids love.&nbsp;<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These moments remind them they&rsquo;re seen, heard, and deeply valued.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><div class=\"research_highlight\"><p>Studies show that spending <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.firstfiveyears.org.au\/child-development\/why-spend-oneonone-time-with-your-child\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">one-on-one time<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with your child strengthens your bond, boosts their self-esteem, and supports their emotional and cognitive development. It shows them they are valued and helps them feel secure.<\/p><\/div><\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Take one child out for a short walk or ice cream date where it&rsquo;s just the two of you.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>20. Hearing &ldquo;I Love You&rdquo;<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Maybe you show your love to your child, but hearing it is excellent, too. So, be vocal and with all your heart say <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.researchgate.net\/publication\/386501350_The_Vital_Role_of_Love_in_a_Child's_Development#:~:text=from%20healthy%20attachments%20and%20develop,for%20learning%20and%20problem%20solving.\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&ldquo;I Love You<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&rdquo; to your child and see the magic! <\/span><b>These three simple words can help them feel safe, cherished, and deeply connected to you.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Whisper &ldquo;I love you&rdquo; during bedtime or say it randomly while hugging them during the day.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>21. Listening<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your child may not be able to communicate all of their thoughts and feelings. Really listening will help them feel like you care and are hearing what they are truly saying. So<\/span><b>, <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/parenting\/how-to-talk-to-kids\/\"><b>listen to them<\/b><\/a><b> with presence<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It teaches them their words matter and that you are emotionally available.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> When they&rsquo;re talking about something small&mdash;like a drawing or a school event&mdash;look into their eyes and respond thoughtfully.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>22. A healthy environment<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A clean and safe place to live, good food to eat, and all of the necessities of life are something kids will truly appreciate. Even if they don&rsquo;t say it out loud, they grow in a nurturing environment where <\/span><b>they feel both physically safe and emotionally secure.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Keep their play area tidy, involve them in meal prep, and talk about healthy habits casually during daily routines.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>23. Silliness<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids love to be silly, and they love it even more when their parents are silly.<\/span><b> Letting loose and laughing together helps kids feel closer to you<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It shows them that it&rsquo;s okay to be playful and that joy doesn&rsquo;t need a reason.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Make silly faces during breakfast or invent a goofy dance you only do together.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>24. Guidance<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&rsquo;t tell your child what to do all the time, but rather guide them. <\/span><b>Offer options and talk about what they want to do in life.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This builds confidence and teaches decision-making while keeping the relationship open, warm, and respectful.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Instead of saying &ldquo;Do your homework now,&rdquo; ask, &ldquo;Would you like to do your homework before or after snack time?&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/parenting\/ways-to-make-parent-child-communication-a-habit\/\" title=\"9 Ways to Make Parent Child Communication a Habit in Your Family\">9 Ways to Make Parent Child Communication a Habit in Your Family<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>25. Support<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When a child&rsquo;s favorite sport is soccer, and you support their passion and give them opportunities to pursue it, for a kid, there is nothing better. <\/span><b>Feeling backed by their parents makes them feel brave, loved, and encouraged to dream big.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cheer them on from the sidelines, help them practice, or show genuine interest in their latest hobby.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-26067 size-full\" title=\"Regular one-on-one time\" src=\"https:\/\/image.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/08\/Trial-Separation-%E2%80%93-How-to-Talk-About-It-with-Kids.jpg\" alt=\"Regular one-on-one time\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\"><\/p>\n<h3><b>26. Feeling trusted<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids blossom when they know you believe in them. <\/span><b>Trust helps build self-esteem and independence. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether it&rsquo;s completing a small chore or handling a school project, showing that you trust them encourages responsibility and confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Say, &ldquo;I know you&rsquo;ll remember to feed the pet today&mdash;you&rsquo;re really good at keeping track!&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/parenting\/how-to-connect-with-your-children\/\" title=\"7 Family Relationship Advice to Connect With Your Children\">7 Family Relationship Advice to Connect With Your Children<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>27. Helping others<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids love feeling helpful and making a difference.<\/span><b> Involving them in small acts of kindness teaches empathy and gives them a sense of purpose.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Helping others becomes a joyful part of their character.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Invite them to help pack a donation box or make a card for a family member.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"wporg-box\"><div class=\"\"><span class=\"wporg_heading\">RELATED READING : <\/span><span class=\"wporg_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/love\/teaching-your-kids-about-love\/\" title=\"Teaching Your Kids the Four-Letters of Love\">Teaching Your Kids the Four-Letters of Love<\/a><\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<h3><b>28. Getting messy<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether it&rsquo;s painting, baking, or digging in the garden, <\/span><b>kids often love activities where getting messy is part of the fun.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> It helps them feel free, imaginative, and adventurous&mdash;without worrying about staying &ldquo;perfect.&rdquo;<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Let them finger-paint outside or help knead dough during baking, even if things get a little wild.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>29. Feeling included<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids want to feel like they matter in the family. Whether it&rsquo;s helping with simple decisions or being involved in small tasks,<\/span><b> feeling included gives them a sense of value and belonging.<\/b><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Ask, &ldquo;Should we have pasta or rice tonight?&rdquo; or let them help set the table with pride.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Watch this TED Talk by <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chanda Renee Reynolds, <\/span><\/i><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">licensed clinical psychologist, who emphasizes ways parents can support and improve their child&rsquo;s mental health through practical, everyday strategies.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/cYegqUJFqtc?si=-rqm3aGYUlg7ZGmE\" width=\"804\" height=\"350\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">&#65279;<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3><b>30. Surprise moments<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It doesn&rsquo;t have to be a big gift&mdash;<\/span><b>sometimes a small surprise can light up a child&rsquo;s world<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Unexpected joy, even in small doses, makes them feel remembered and loved in the everyday.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Example: Slip a tiny note into their lunchbox saying, &ldquo;Can&rsquo;t wait to hear about your day!&rdquo;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h3><b>31. Learning new things<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kids are naturally curious and love to learn new things, especially when it&rsquo;s hands-on or playful. Encouraging their questions and discoveries supports their development and keeps their enthusiasm alive.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Example<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Try simple science experiments, visit a museum, or explore new hobbies together.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul><h2><b>In nutshell<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the end, it&rsquo;s not about grand gestures&mdash;<\/span><b>it&rsquo;s the everyday moments that leave the deepest mark.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> From warm hugs to silly games, kids remember how you made them feel.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you pay attention to the little what do kids like these days, you&rsquo;re not just making them happy&mdash;you&rsquo;re helping them feel seen, secure, and unconditionally loved.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false,"raw":""},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Sometimes, it&rsquo;s the smallest things that light up a child&rsquo;s whole world. Saying yes to an extra bedtime story, letting them pick the movie for family night, or remembering how they like their sandwich cut&mdash;it all matters. These moments may seem tiny to us, but to kids, they&rsquo;re everything.&nbsp; They want to feel seen, heard, and truly loved. When you do something just because it makes them smile, it stays with them.&nbsp; What do kids like these days? Often, it&rsquo;s not big or flashy&mdash;it&rsquo;s the everyday love tucked into the little things that make them feel special. What do kids <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":675,"featured_media":6890,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[37],"tags":[2643],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6889"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/675"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6889"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6889\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":109357,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6889\/revisions\/109357"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6890"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6889"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6889"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marriage.com\/advice\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6889"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}