I wasn't loved and it affected me. How Love Shapes a Child's Life and Future

I grew in a household where love was a strange feeling, I was raised by people who were never in love with themselves, marriage and even their children. 

I wasn't their biological child and it wasn't hidden from me, I was constantly reminded of this fact and was told to be grateful they took me in after my mom's death. 

I never really knew what love was, until one of my cousins from a different aunt pointed it out to me. She and her siblings were raised in love and you could see how different they were from us, her expressions were confident, she was so free to speak, she was so open and hardly pick offence. I wanted to be around her because I get to smile more and not walk on eggshells.

As a mother now,my child hood experiences has taught me the importance of love in an household/family. 

Love shapes children in so many positive ways. 

1. Unconditional love and affection create a sense of security, trust, and belonging, allowing your child to develop healthy self-esteem, resilience, and emotional intelligence.

2. It conquers fear within a child and help build an healthy relationship with you, it help them open up to you because they know you won't judge them, by demonstrating love, kindness, and respect, parents teach children how to build positive connections with others.

3. Loving your child/children encourage self-expression and individuality, Parental love creates a nurturing environment where children feel safe to express themselves authentically. By accepting and celebrating their child's unique qualities, interests, and talents, parents empower them to explore their individuality, fostering self-confidence and a strong sense of self. Love helps your child build confident to face challenges. I would rather have a child who is ready to take the world than one who I constantly hide the world from.

Studies have shown that children who receive love, attention and nurturing from their parents and guardians have better physical health, mental health, and overall life satisfaction. They are more likely to succeed in life, have a good academic performance, and fewer behavioral issues.

Children that are raised in an environment filled with love thrive better in the world because they have been well equipped by their parents/guardians. 

Be intentional about raising your children, kindly share your childhood lesson.

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