One of the most difficult aspects of being a great dad is learning to show your kids affection. At least that’s what I hear other dads tell me.

I don’t have too much trouble in this area, but I know it’s a difficult thing for a lot of men, my own dad included.

Growing up, I didn’t hear very often how much he loved me. I know he did; he just didn’t know how to show it.

Very early in my parenting, I made the decision that my kids would not experience that. I made the decision to not only show my kids that I love them, but to verbalize it as well. They need to hear me say the words :I love you.”

And so I do… Multiple times a day. One of my boys tells me that I say it too often, to which I reply, “That’s not possible. There’s no way I can say it too much.”

But alongside of that, I show them my love as well. Again, you can’t show them you love them too much. I’ve never heard of anyone suffering from being shown too much love, unless it’s my son, who finds it embarrassing. He’ll just have to learn to live with it.

Unfortunately, I hear of too many people, though, who suffer from not being shown enough love. The problems and issues stemming from a lack of love are too numerous to count. But kids are more secure when they know, when they can see and hear, that their parents love them.

Shower your kids with affection! Lavish upon them hugs and kisses, affirming touch and pats on the back. Make sure they hear you say that you love them, and make sure they hear you say it often.

Your kids will thank you for it one day!

Be deliberate, Dad!

What do you do to share your love with your kids? You can leave your thoughts in the comments section below.