Okay, so I have two children and I have noticed lately that both of them show affection differently.  I was curious if they really show affection differently or do I respond to them in different ways.  I have one child who is as reserved as reserved can be, getting a hug out of her is a major accomplishment, then the other child is blowing kisses, reaching for hugs and always showing affection.  I give them equal attention, show them equal affection and constantly tell them that I love them.  I kiss and hug them all the time and when I get hugs and kisses back it makes my day.  I am not a believer in pushing for affection so if I ask for a kiss and I get shut down, I am okay with it.

I was reading an article recently and the pro’s and cons of pushing for affection and I believe this is a charged issue with parents.  I think about parents that give and give affection without getting anything in return such as with autistic children and then of course I feel bad about my need for affection.  Bottom line for me is that I do know that both my children love me and they always know I love them, so the big question remains?

Should you force affection or take what you get?