Speaking Your Child’s Love Language: How to Build a Deeper Connection

Every child has their own way of expressing and receiving love. For neurodivergent children, recognising and speaking their unique love language can lead to a stronger bond and improved emotional wellbeing. In this blog, we’ll explore the different love languages and how you can implement them in your daily interactions.

1. Words of Affirmation

If your child thrives on praise and positive words, they may have this love language. Compliments, gentle encouragement and verbal recognition of their effort help them feel appreciated and loved.

2. Acts of Service

Some children may feel most loved when their caregivers do things for them. This could be helping with tasks or creating a calm environment tailored to their sensory needs.

3. Receiving Gifts

For some neurodivergent children, thoughtful gifts or tangible expressions of affection (like a favourite snack or toy) make them feel understood and valued.

4. Quality Time

This love language focuses on undivided attention. Setting aside distractions and spending time together—whether through shared activities or simply sitting quietly—nourishes their need for connection.

5. Physical Touch

Gentle gestures like hugs, hand-holding or even a light touch on the arm can help children with this love language feel safe, loved, and comforted.

Understanding your child's love language and speaking it regularly fosters a stronger, deeper connection.

Want more support like this? This article is just a snippet of the full guide available exclusively to members of The Dock — our private, supportive online community for parents of neurodivergent children. Inside, you’ll find the full downloadable version, plus expert-led resources, lived experience advice and real connection with people who truly get it.

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