Have you ever assumed your kids just know you love them even if you don’t always say it out loud?

As busy parents, it’s easy to focus on schedules, discipline, homework, and getting through the day only to miss the small, intentional words that actually build trust and connection.

Maybe you’ve lost your patience. Maybe pride made it hard to apologize.Maybe you thought, “They already know how I feel.”

But the truth is that unspoken love, unspoken gratitude, and unspoken repair slowly create distance in our relationships. And over time, those little missed moments add up.

In this episode of Parents Making Time, Anthony and Jennifer share three simple phrases that can completely transform your relationship with your kids — phrases backed by neuroscience, attachment research, and their own real-life parenting stories.

Because intentional parenting isn’t about being perfect.

It’s about being willing to say, “I’m sorry.”, “Thank you.”, and “I love you.”

These small words create emotional safety, strengthen trust, and teach your kids how to build healthy relationships for the rest of their lives.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

• How saying “I’m sorry” actually strengthens trust and respect with your kids
• Why gratitude and verbal affection rewire your child’s brain for safety and connection
• A simple daily mindset to help busy parents make more emotional deposits than withdrawals

If you’re a parent who wants to be more present, more connected, and more intentional without adding more to your already full plate, this episode will show you how three small phrases can make a lifelong impact.

When you finish listening, we’d love for you to connect with us on social media!

Follow us on Instagram and like our page on Facebook to keep the conversation going. It’s the best way to get quick tips, encouragement, and resources to help you make time for what matters most—your family.

Easily improve your intentional parenting efforts at mealtime with our FREE resource, Dinner Conversation Starters.

Download our FREE resource, 30-Second Micro Moments of Intention with Your Kids, created for busy parents like you who need easy, actionable ways to have daily meaningful connections with their kids in less than a minute!

Parenting Questions? Email us at parentsmakingtime@gmail.com (Please note, your question may be featured on the show).

For parenting inspiration, time management ideas, and encouragement for families, follow the hosts' individual accounts:

Anthony Craiker: Instagram | LinkedIn

Jennifer Craiker: Instagram

Interested in joining our free online parenting community? Send us a DM to receive an invite!

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