20 Ways to Show Your Teen Son You Love Him

Audio By Carbonatix

I’m a mom of three boys and seven girls. With my daughters, it’s easy to express love—we chat, paint nails, share stories, and go out for coffee. I understand their world. But with my sons? That’s been more of a learning curve.

I remember trying to connect with one of my boys after his first day of college. I peppered him with questions, genuinely interested in every detail. He got frustrated. My husband leaned over and whispered, “Why are you grilling him?”

That moment taught me something: boys connect differently. Sons often don’t want to be asked 20 questions. They just want to be with you—and know they’re loved without needing to explain everything.

So, what’s a mom to do? Here are some intentional and heartfelt ways to show your teen son you love him—without overwhelming him.

20 Ways to Show Your Teen Son You Love Him

1. Go for a drive – Sit side-by-side in the car and don’t ask too many questions. Let him open up on his own.
2. Ask about his video game – Not because you’re interested in the game, but because you’re interested in him.
3. Cook his favorite meal – Food speaks love.
4. Affirm his character – Tell him you’re proud of something meaningful he did—like how he helped his sibling or told the truth.
5. Drop by his job – Not to make a scene, but just to show him you care.
6. Take him to lunch – Let him pick the place.
7. Check in when you’re shopping – Text him and ask if he needs anything. It says, “I’m thinking of you.”
8. Play his favorite game – Even if it’s not your thing, your willingness shows love.
9. Do his laundry sometimes – It’s not about spoiling him—it’s about blessing him.
10. Be available – When he talks, drop what you’re doing and really listen.
11. Brag about him (where he can hear) – Let him overhear you praising him to someone else.
12. Host his friends – Make snacks and space available when his friends are over.
13. Leave a book on his bed – Pick one he’s interested in and include a short note.
14. Say yes – If he invites you to something, show up.
15. Take his problems seriously – Even if they seem small to you, they’re big to him.
16. Notice the small wins – Let him know you saw when he chose to be kind or responsible.
17. Speak his love language – Physical touch, words of affirmation, quality time—figure out what matters to him.
18. Give him space – Sometimes love looks like letting him recharge.
19. Pray for him—out loud – Let him hear your love and dependence on God.
20. Keep showing up – Even when he pushes you away or seems aloof, be steady and faithful.

Remember this: It’s not about saying the right things; it’s about being a safe, loving, and constant presence. Teenage boys may not always show it, but they crave connection, approval, and affection from their moms.

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” – Romans 12:10

Now it’s your turn: What’s one way you show love to your teen son? I’d love to hear it!

Resources

P.S. Looking for more encouragement for the teen parenting journey? Check out my book Faith That Sticks!

The preteen years can be perilous. More than ever kids are bombarded with messages that threaten their emotional health, spiritual growth, and faith. And while the market is flooded with resources for raising children, it’s remarkably scarce on help for navigating difficult preteen days. Parents can feel alone and at a loss as to how to connect with and guide their growing kids.

If you want to connect with your preteen on a deeper level and watch your kids grow in their faith, you will find Faith That Sticks the encouragement and direction you need!