How many times have you felt like you are failing as a mom? Most moms have felt that at one point or another.

We yell at our kids, forget something important or just put too much pressure on ourselves and the mom guilt begins.

However being a loving mom is not as hard as sometimes we feel it is.

Here are 8 easy ways to be a loving mom (and I bet you already do several of them!)

1. Tell your kids you love them every day.

I know this is so simple, but I never want my kids to wonder if their mom loved them. I want them to know without a doubt they are precious and important.

2. Say yes when you really want to say no.

This can mean different things to different moms. I hate building with LEGOs. For me to sit down with the kids and build things with LEGOs is almost torture. For other moms, it could be letting your kids paint. Maybe it’s stopping for ice cream on a hot summer day or eating hot dogs and macaroni and cheese.

3. Pray for your children and with your children.

Children learn by seeing what Mom and Dad do. We take turns at mealtime letting the kids lead us in prayer. It’s a big deal when it’s their turn and they take pride when it’s their turn.

4.Write love notes to your kids.

These are great in lunches, stuck on the bathroom mirror, or hidden on a pillow or backpack. Whether it’s wishing good luck on an activity, praise for a good grade, a thank you for something they did, or just a happy face—love notes are a great way to encourage your kids.

5. Tell your kids stories about your childhood and about when they were younger.

My kids love to hear about my adventures in childhood, whether it’s fun games we played, a time I got in trouble or had friend trouble and what I learned from it, or stories about our pets. It’s a great way to connect.

They also love to hear about what they liked, didn’t like, what they did that was funny and any other stories from when they were younger (especially those times they don’t remember).

6. Tuck them in at night. Even when they’re old enough not to. 

I still tuck my kids in at night. It’d be easier not to sometimes, but I’d be missing prayers, stories from the day, what is worrying them, and hugs and kisses. It’s one time my 12-year-old really opens up about life. Those times are priceless.

7. Put your phone down and spend time with them.

Our kids are growing up in a world of texts, Snapchats, and social media. If you want a personal relationship, the phone has got to go when your kids want to talk. Otherwise your relationship with your kids will only be as strong as your online friendships. That’s not intimate enough for me.

8. Let your kids help you. 

I know it’s easier to do most jobs yourself but you are missing interaction with your kids and missing teachable moments for your kids to learn life skills. (Plus isn’t it nice when they can unload a dishwasher or take the trash out?) Take the time to train your kids, your investment is worth the time it costs!

What tips do you have for showing your kids you love them?