Tiny Takeaways - Creating a Felt Sense of Love

One of the main principles of Child Centered Play Therapy is that kids are not rational, logical, or verbal. Kids live in their feelings! The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that handles language and big ideas, is still growing. That means when you say “I love you,” your child hears it, but the words don’t always sink in on their own.

What makes love real for kids is the everyday moments when they feel safe, warm, and connected. You can help your child link those feelings to the idea of being loved by naming them out loud:

• “You feel loved when I let you choose.”
• “You feel so loved when I tuck you in and sing your favorite song.”
• “You feel loved when I play Minecraft with you.”
• "You feel loved when I brush your hair."

Try it tonight: notice one small moment of connection and name it. Watch your child’s face as the feeling of love lands.

Let delight lead the way!