I’ve shared before how much I believe in the power of the five love languages. They’ve completely changed how I show love to the most important people in my life. Some folks might laugh and call it silly, but there’s actually science behind it!
Dr. Gary Chapman, the author of The Five Love Languages, explains that everyone has their own special way of giving and receiving love. For me, I feel most loved when someone speaks kind words or helps me with little acts of service. I also love showing my care through gift-giving and helping out wherever I can.
My husband’s love language is a little different. He feels most loved through physical touch and kind words. He often shows his love through acts of service—like fixing things around the house or helping with chores.
So even though we’re similar, I make sure to add in extra hugs, shoulder squeezes, and back rubs throughout the day. Those small touches mean the world to him.
Our grandkids have their own love languages, too! Learning how each of them feels loved has made our bond even stronger. Once you know their “language,” it feels almost magical—because you start connecting with their heart in a whole new way.
So, what are these five love languages? And how can you learn your grandchild’s? Don’t worry—it’s much easier than you think, and it’s such a joyful journey.
What Are the Five Love Languages?
- Words of Affirmation
- Acts of Service
- Receiving Gifts
- Quality Time
- Physical Touch
When we understand our loved ones’ love languages—especially our grandkids’—our relationships become so much richer. Each person feels love in their own special way. When we speak that “language,” they feel seen, appreciated, and deeply cared for. This simple idea has helped so many families grow closer and given kids the confidence to bloom.
Want to know your grandchild’s love language? Take this free quiz! (And while you’re at it, take it for yourself, too—it’s fun!) Once you know the results, come back here and learn the best ways to show your grandchild just how much you love them.
Words of Affirmation
Words of Affirmation are all about speaking love out loud. When we use kind, encouraging words, our grandchildren feel valued, confident, and deeply loved. Simple praise and gentle encouragement can do wonders for their self-esteem and help them believe in themselves.
Here are some sweet and easy ways to use Words of Affirmation with your grandkids:
- Compliment their artwork or school projects
- Praise their good choices or kind behavior
- Tell them often how much you love and appreciate them
- Celebrate every achievement—big or small
- Offer encouraging words when they’re facing a challenge
- Point out their special talents and unique qualities
- Let them know their feelings and emotions are valid
- Really listen when they talk, and respond with care
- Share positive quotes or affirmations to brighten their day
- Notice and celebrate their progress and growth
When we speak love into our grandchildren’s hearts, they carry those words with them, giving them confidence and joy that lasts a lifetime.
Acts of Service
Acts of Service is all about showing love through caring actions. When we do thoughtful things for our grandchildren, we show them that their happiness and well-being truly matter. It’s not just about helping—it’s about letting them feel safe, supported, and deeply loved.
Here are some heartfelt ways to express love through Acts of Service:
- Help with their homework or school projects
- Make their favorite meal or snack
- Take care of them when they’re not feeling well
- Lend a hand with chores or organizing their room
- Drive them to practices, playdates, or fun activities
- Volunteer at their school or cheer for them at events
- Support their hobbies and special interests
- Teach them new skills or share life lessons
- Offer guidance with personal care or routines
- Create a home that feels safe, cozy, and welcoming
Every small act sends a big message: “I love you, and I’m here for you.” When we show love through our actions, our grandchildren feel it in their hearts.
Receiving Gifts
Receiving Gifts is a love language that focuses on the joy of giving and receiving meaningful tokens of love. It’s not about spoiling our grandchildren with lots of stuff. Instead, it’s about the thought and care behind a gift—something that says, “I know you, and I love you.”
Here are some simple and heartfelt ways to show this love language:
- Surprise them with a small, thoughtful gift
- Give them a special book or toy they’ve been hoping for
- Choose or make a gift that reflects their interests
- Celebrate milestones with meaningful presents
- Create a homemade craft or keepsake just for them
- Give an experience as a gift, like a fun day together
- Pick an item that connects to something you both love
- Offer a little token of love during tough times
- Gift something that shows how much they’ve grown
- Make holiday or birthday gifts feel extra special and personal
The best gifts carry a piece of your heart. When your grandchild receives a gift chosen with love, they feel treasured and understood.
Quality Time
Quality Time is the love language of togetherness. It’s all about giving your grandchild your full attention and making them feel like the most important person in the world. These focused, meaningful moments create memories they’ll carry in their hearts forever.
Here are some simple and joyful ways to spend Quality Time with your grandkids:
- Plan fun outings or little family adventures
- Play their favorite games or do activities they love
- Read bedtime stories or share a cozy meal together
- Set aside regular one-on-one time with each child
- Watch movies or favorite shows side by side
- Enjoy hobbies or creative projects together
- Teach them a new skill, recipe, or craft
- Cheer them on at games, recitals, or performances
- Explore nature or take relaxing walks together
- Start family traditions or special little rituals
Even the smallest moments—like a quiet walk or an afternoon of laughter—can make your grandchild feel truly seen, loved, and valued.
Physical Touch
Physical Touch is the love language of comfort and closeness. For children, a simple hug or snuggle can speak louder than words. These little moments of touch make them feel safe, loved, and connected to you.
Here are some heartfelt ways to show love through Physical Touch:
- Give hugs, kisses, and cuddles often
- Hold their hand or wrap an arm around their shoulder
- Offer a gentle touch when they’re upset or scared
- Play fun, touch-oriented games like tickling or light wrestling
- Tuck them in with a warm hug or kiss
- Gently stroke their hair or rub their back
- Snuggle up together for a movie or story
- Celebrate with high-fives or fist bumps
- Hold them close during storms or scary moments
- Share a playful nudge or gentle squeeze to show you care
Physical touch reminds our grandchildren, “You are safe, and you are loved.” These simple moments of warmth can fill their hearts with joy and security.
Conclusion
I hope discovering your grandchildren’s love languages fills your heart the way it has filled mine. Learning to “speak” their language can turn simple moments into precious memories. It’s amazing how much closer you feel when your grandchild knows they are truly loved—and how special it feels when they show love in your own language, too.
If you’d like to explore this even more, I highly recommend Dr. Gary Chapman’s books on The Five Love Languages. They are full of simple, heartfelt ideas to help you grow strong, lasting bonds with the people you love most.
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