Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! And while we know you’ve probably got some sweet ideas planned to show your child how much you love them on that day, it’s a good time to remember that there are things we can do to express our love for our kids every day of the year. Here are some great parenting tips that let your child know he or she is loved and cared for — all year long!

1. Show your love. Spending time with your child is one of the best ways you can show them you love them! Read books together, go for a walk, watch their favorite tv show with them, or ask them to show you how to play that video game they love. (If you can actually understand it, extra points!) Arts and crafts are a nice, creative way to spend time together. Make one of these fun Valentine’s Day crafts from Shutterfly, then use them to share the love with family and friends, too!

2. Listen with love. Practice active listening. The next time your child comes to you with a problem or a story about their day, try to listen more than talk. When they’re finished, show them you’ve been attentive by using words like “I hear you saying…” or “It sounds like…”

3. Discipline with love. Use time outs, calmly give consequences, and avoid spanking or yelling. When your child knows you love them enough to set firm boundaries while still treating them with respect, they’ll grow up to be healthier, happier adults.

4. Model loving behavior toward others. Let your child see you treat your partner, colleagues, friends, and people you encounter in public respectfully. This doesn’t mean that you can’t be assertive. In fact, showing your child that you can stand up for yourself while maintaining your composure is one of the best ways they’ll learn to love themselves and treat others with dignity and respect.

5. Speak your love. Giving your kid compliments is a great way to express how awesome you think they are. And don’t forget that you can never tell your child “I love you” enough!