October Book Club Recap

This morning marked our first mom2mom book club meeting. Led by Nancy Braun, we covered chapters 1 -5 of The 5 Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell. What insightful chapters they are! The chapters included information on the following love languages: physical touch, words of affirmation, and quality time. Book club was a time of great discussion, insights, and fellowship. Here is a sampling of some the topics we covered...

• Around the age of 5 is when children start to show their primary love language.
• A great question to ask your kiddos (and hubby too!) is: what makes you feel loved by me? Listen closely to how your kids respond. Their answer will usually line up with their own love language. 
• Always parent with the future in mind. Train as you mean to go... and as the book states, also remember that "Speaking your child's primary love language does not mean he or she will not rebel later. It does mean your child will know you love him, and that can bring him security and hope; it can help you to rear your child to responsible adulthood. Love is the foundation." (page 17)
• Be secure in who your family is--every family is different. There will always be outside commentary and criticism, know the path you take is unique to your own family's style. 
• What does unconditional love look like? Unconditional love means love no matter what--no matter the child's behavior at the moment, our love remains. 
• Children are good observers, yet terrible interpreters. What are they observing from their parents?
• Children need all five love languages. Fill their tanks daily. Know what speaks to them. 
• In regards to giving words of affirmation, after giving your child a specific praise, ask them how does it makes them feel when you said the praise. 
• Be engaged! Turn your phone on silent. Turn off those gadgets. Spend quality time with your kiddos. 

Next month, at our November 1st meeting, we will discuss the second half of the book.

If you have yet to sign up for book club and would like to join, please contact Cheryl Washburn at jcwash815@aol.com. Advance registration is required for childcare.

We hope to see you all there next month! (And hope all the kiddos who not feeling well are on the mend, and their mamas too :)