30 Little Things That Mean a Lot to Kids

Sometimes, it's the little things that make the biggest impact. This is especially true with children: Getting an extra story at bedtime, being allowed to pick out the family's pizza toppings, or stopping for ice cream after school may not be a huge deal to you, but it is to your kids.

Kids want to feel special, noticed, cared for, and loved. When you go out of your way to do something extra for them—like putting chocolate chips on their pancakes because they enjoy it—your children are likely to see it as extra confirmation that you love and cherish them. They already know you care, but these moments simply reinforce that truth while giving them ample reason to smile.

If you're wondering "what do kids like?" the answer may be simpler than you think. Here are 30 easy things you can do to let your children know how much they matter to you.

1. Display their artwork.

Wear the macaroni necklaces your child makes, and hang their paintings in a special place. However you choose to display your kid's artwork, it will give them a sense of pride and accomplishment.

2. Brainstorm a family mantra.

Tape a family mantra or slogan to your refrigerator door and cite it whenever your child feels discouraged. Here are some examples: "Unstoppable!" "We can, we will!" "We've got this!" The familiar slogan is guaranteed to improve their mood.

3. Spend quality time together.

If you have multiple children, go for a walk with just one of them. You can also visit somewhere that interests them—the movie theater, a craft store, your favorite local restaurant—for some one-on-one bonding.

4. Write lunch box notes.

Slip a note (and an occasional piece of chocolate) into their lunch boxes. Consider drafting a sweet, encouraging memo to make their day brighter. You can also opt for a hilarious joke or riddle instead.

5. Share their interests.

Whether you build your own Minecraft world alongside theirs or play dress-up with them, showing interest in your child's interests will make them feel loved.

6. Turn a "no" into a "yes."

Want to surprise your little one? Say "yes" to something that's usually off-limits, like sitting on the kitchen counter or eating dessert before dinner.

7. Become a thrill seeker.

Is your child into thrills? Show as much enthusiasm on amusement park rides as they do! You can also share thrills on playground swings, sledding hills, bicycle paths, and more.

8. Wear matching outfits.

Give your child a bracelet or T-shirt that matches one you have. They'll love being your "mini me" whenever they wear it.

9. Don't stress the small stuff.

Is your child expected to have a tidy room? Consider cutting them some slack on occasion, especially during busy times in their life. If their room looks like a tsunami hit it, close the door and let it go.

10. Make video valls.

Bring kids into a video chat with Grandma (or another favorite relative) every now and then. They can share details of their lives, just like you do during the call.

11. Let them quit unenjoyable activities.

Whether it's soccer or swimming or softball, let kids quit the team if they really, truly want it (and they've given it their best). Remember that every kid child has different interests.

12. Get messy sometimes.

Let your 3-year-old stomp in every puddle they find, and your 6-year-old play in the muddy backyard. Even without rain boots.

13. Make something special for them.

Get out the glitter glue and make a birthday card for your kid. This will especially please those with a love language of receiving gifts.

14. Adopt a pet.

Take in a pet that needs a home—and a child's love. If you don't want the responsibility of a dog or cat, consider a smaller animal, like a guinea pig or fish.

15. Give them independence.

Teaching independence is vital for young kids. Give them a chance to fight their own battles on the playground before you intervene; they'll thank you later.

16. Ask about their day—after they've had a chance to decompress.

If your child acts grumpy and tired after school, wait to ask them how their day was. You can always get the full rundown at the dinner table.

17. Establish fun rituals.

Family traditions give children something to look forward to every week, month, or season. Some fun rituals include Taco Tuesdays, Sunday bike rides, apple picking in fall, etc.

18. Play the role of student.

Many children love role-playing as a teacher. Ask your kid to teach you about something they enjoy, whether it's cartoons or drawing, then tell them what good instructors they are.

19. Express their creativity.

Encourage your child to wear whatever they want to the supermarket—even if it's dress-up clothes or footie pajamas!

20. Praise them often.

When your child is in earshot, say something wonderful about them. ("John did such a good job on his painting!" or "Olivia has a beautiful singing voice. I love hearing her sing!") Kids respond well to praise, especially when it's not directly said to them.

21. Watch the sky.

During the summer, stay up late to see the stars or full moon together (check the Farmer's Almanac for dates). You'll create memories that last a lifetime!

22. Print photos for them.

Does your chid love looking through photo albums? Print some pictures of their friends and family so they have something physical to look at every day.

23. Always listen to them.

When your kid is upset or frustrated, let them vent. Kids have every right to air their feelings—and they might feel better afterwards.

24. Cook a fun breakfast.

You don't need to wait for a holiday to whip up a fancy breakfast! On a random weekday, cook some heart-shaped pancakes in the morning.

25. Have an impromptu dance party.

Crank up some music while they're doing their homework and have a dance party. Bonus points if you choose their favorite song.

26. Act like spies.

Come up with a secret family handshake, and complete it whenever you do a certain task (like unlock the car or start the dishwasher).

27. Leave sweet messages in their room.

Hang a whiteboard in their room where you can write messages for one another. You might also leave fun drawings, poems, or jokes on the board.

28. Start a pillow fight.

After your kid's initial shock wears off, they'll love having a pillow fight in the middle of the living room.

29. Get sentimental.

It can be hard for little ones to imagine their parents as children. Share old diaries, photos, and letters from when you were young, then have a conversation about how times have changed.

30. Recognize their contributions—even the small ones.

Thank your child when they do a chore on their own—even if it's just hanging up a wet towel or refilling a water pitcher. They'll appreciate the recognition.