Okay, so I broke my “rule” and read a non-fluffy book. It didn’t put me to sleep (must be getting more sleep!), and it was worth the effort.

I tend to think I’m a pretty good parent (albeit an arrogant one!), and because of that tend to shy away from self-help books, except in certain circumstances. One of those being when my mom sends me a book saying I really ought to read it. Then I (usually) do, though usually with some skepticism. I’m really glad I read this one, by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell, though.

The basic premise is that everyone has five “love languages”: quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, and physical touch — but that we all prefer one (or two) languages over the others. The goal as parents is to learn to “speak” your child(ren)’s primary love language. By doing that, you ensure that they actually recognize and feel your love for them, and as a result not only behave better, but are actually more secure in their self-esteem and therefore grow up to be more secure, loving adults. Kind of sounds hokey, but I think it might work. For example, M has been having a hard time sleeping, coming out complaining of headaches, stomach aches, whatever, until we lose patience with her. After reading this book, I determined that her primary love language is physical touch, and have been giving her more hugs and kisses and just touching her more. And, sure enough, she’s been falling asleep better at nights. I think C’s primary love language is words of affirmation (either that or quality time). I’ve been trying to tell her she’s wonderful and doing a good job whenever I can. She seems to play better by herself and throw less tantrums, too.

Anyway. I’m not sure if this will work in the long run, but it’s at least a very interesting concept to think about. And, hey, more love around the house won’t hurt.