I’ve always enjoyed being a dad to my sons, Trent and Troy. They’re grown now, but since they were babies, I’ve been intentional about spending quality time with them and regularly saying, “I love you.”
Every parent wants to give their child quality attention, but life always seems so busy, doesn’t it? We’re pulled in many directions and don’t always express love to our children as often as we should or in ways that resonate with them.
Matt and Lisa Jacobson know all about intentional parenting. They have eight children — four boys and four girls, ranging in age from 31 to 19, with a few grandkids sprinkled in. Naturally, a home with eight children invites chaos, but Matt and Lisa have learned how to balance order with freedom and to express love to their children in tangible ways.
They talked with me about how they do that on Focus on the Family with Jim Daly. They say the best way to build a healthy identity in your children is to have a committed, healthy marriage. Husbands and wives model for their children how to love and respect other people, which is essential for developing a strong sense of confidence.
Matt and Lisa also shared tried-and-true ways for showing love to your daughters and sons, including:
• Making meaningful connections.
• Understanding what your sons need.
• Understanding what your daughters need.
• Developing your child’s identity.
• Discipling your children in their faith.
• Adjusting your parenting as your children develop independent behavior.
While you’re here, we’ve got a free parenting assessment available for you. It will quickly give you an overview of how your family is doing in several key areas. It also offers suggestions for improving the relationships in your home.