Sometimes your child will speak or act as if he doesn't love you, and this may make you feel rejected, and as though your child doesn't want you around. While this may well hurt your feelings, it is not that your child doesn't love you. And in no way does it mean that you are a bad parent. When this happens, try to understand why your child is acting this way. For instance, your child may have felt frightened and abandoned while away from you. After coping with these feelings all day, just the sight of you allows the feelings to come flooding out - as anger - instead of what he is really feeling: scared that you wouldn't return. In situations like this, help your child express her feelings - even if your child is very young. It's also important that you explain your actions. If your child cannot fully understand what you're saying, just the tone of your voice will be comforting. Holding your child close, and being reassuring about your relationship will also help. "Even though Mommy and Daddy had to leave, we missed you, too. And we love you very much." Try to remember that all children can, at times, behave this way. Like anyone else, your child will at times be temporarily angry. Just try not to take it personally. Give your child time to get over her anger. And soon enough, she'll be hugging you and ready to love you again. | 
