TOUCHES THAT SAY A LOT

One of the greatest things you can do for your kids' self-image is to give them meaningful touches throughout the day. This could be as simple as tousling your son's hair or wrestling with him in the living room. A father may draw his daughter close under the umbrella while they wait for the school bus in the rain. A mother can give her kids a quick hug when they come through the door.

To kids, these simple touches and hugs mean everything. They say to them: "You're special" and "I love having you near", And they provide emotional comfort and feelings of acceptance and approval. Children who grow up with a lot of hugs and meaningful touches in the family actually do better later in life, and tend to be happier and better adjusted.

One study has shown that it takes eight to ten meaningful touches each day to maintain emotional and physical health. So, if you want to bless your children, this is one simple and important - way to do so.