30+ Ways To Show Kids You Care: Observations From the Children’s Museum

At the Children’s Museum, our staff have the unique opportunity to engage with kids every day and observe how they interact with the world around them. Through these daily moments, we also see how children respond to the grown-ups in their lives—whether parents, caregivers, or teachers. These interactions reveal just how much kids thrive when they feel seen, heard, and supported. Simple acts—like kneeling to speak at eye level, remembering a child’s name, or offering encouragement during play—can make a lasting impression.

We believe these everyday gestures aren’t just kind—they’re foundational. When adults take the time to connect with kids in meaningful ways, they help build the confidence, emotional safety, and resilience children need to succeed. Over time, we’ve noticed that it’s often the little things that make the biggest difference. So, based on what we’ve observed, we’ve put together a thoughtful list of more than 100+ simple but powerful ways to show kids you care. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, educator, or neighbor—every interaction matters. By being present and intentional, we can all play a part in shaping a positive path forward for every child.

Here we list 30 + great suggestions, for the full list visit: childrensmuseum.com/parents-educators/100-ways-to-show-kids-you-care/

1. Make sure they know that they can be whatever they want when they grow up (even if it’s a pickle).
2. Let them dress wacky and tell them they look great dressed up wacky.
3. Listen to their stories, even the long-winded ones.
4. Keep your promises or ask for forgiveness when you can’t.
5. Help them solve their own problems without solving it for them.
6. Don’t let the TV or the video game console be your babysitter.
7. Respect their ideas.
8. Let them use bakeware as musical instruments.
9. Wear the jewelry they make for you and display the art they create for you.
10. Talk to their imaginary friends and their real ones. Support their imaginations.
11. Talk about their goals and dreams.
12. Skip the baby talk.
13. Follow behind them, but not too closely.
14. Let them fight their own battles.
15. Take time to explain scary things to them.
16. Clean up together.
17. Dance with them.
18. Be present.
19. Explain friendship to them. Make it important. Learn the names of their friends. Teach them to make friends everywhere they go.
20. Treat them with kindness.
21. Take them seriously.
22. Leave them special notes.
23. Share what happened during both your days.
24. Teach them how to do things on their own and encourage them as they create impossible things.
25. Truly listen to them.
26. Encourage their creativity.
27. Teach them that making a mistake is okay.
28. Trust them and give them the freedom to test their limits.
29. Take them out for lunch.
30. Listen to their favourite music with them.
31. Let them get the haircut they want (even if it’s silly).
32. Tell them what you like about them.
33. Ask for their opinion.
34. Be honest about tough questions.
35. Be honest and apologize when you are wrong.
36. Say please and thank you to them.
37. Believe them.
38. Play in the rain with them. Jump in puddles!
39. Hold hands.

The Children’s Museum exists to spark kids’ creative learning. For over 35 years, they continue to be the place for families to play, laugh, learn, and grow. Visit them today at 45 Forks Market Road. For more information: childrensmuseum.com