In his book Too Small to Ignore: Why Children Are the Next Big Thing, child advocate Wess Stafford says "The spirit of a little child is a lot like wet cement. When a child is young, it takes little effort to make an impression that can last a lifetime." In other words, every interaction that you have with your child communicates a message to them about how you feel about them.

October is National Communicate with Your Kid Month. There are many creative ways to communicate your love to the little ones and adolescents in your life. Make it a priority this month to show your children how much they mean to you. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Give them your time.
  • This communicates that you value them.
  • Make it obvious to them that they are a top priority in your life.
• Compliment them.
  • This communicates to them that they are worthy of praise.
  • Build up their self-confidence.
• Encourage their efforts regardless of the outcome.
  • This communicates that they have your unconditional support.
  • Give them the freedom to fail.
• Pray with them.
  • This communicates to them that they matter to God.
  • Show them by example how to relate with God.
• Express your love verbally every day.
  • This communicates your commitment to always love them.
  • Make sure there's not a doubt in their mind about your love for them.
• Hug them regularly.
  • This communicates your love in ways that words cannot.
  • It is important to physically communicate your love to them.
• Ask them questions.
  • This communicates that you are interested in them.
  • Engage them in conversation and encourage openness.