As a dad of two, I’ve realized that how we respond to those little “I love yous” can become part of our family’s unique language.
Some responses stick for years, while others are just great for a laugh in the moment.
Here are ten of the best ways to answer “I love you” that go beyond the standard reply—perfect for creating special memories with your kids.
1. “And I always will.”
This one’s a classic for parents.
I’ve seen how just saying it back with extra warmth can make a difference, especially at bedtime. It’s a little reminder that love is constant, no matter the day they’ve had or the tantrums they’ve thrown.
2. “You know when I’ll stop loving you?”
“When?”
“Forever never.”
I stole this one from the internet, but it’s an instant hit. The surprise on their faces and the giggles that follow make it totally worth it.
3. “You’re my favorite little girl in the world!”
I told my daughter this once, and the way she lit up made it clear she thought it was brand-new information.
I tell her “I love you” all the time, but seeing her face, I realized something important: kids don’t always understand what love means, not fully.
For them, it’s more about hearing it often and in different ways.
4. “Love you, man.”
There’s a dad I know who still says this to his teenage son every time they chat.
It started as a joke when the boy was little but turned into their thing. It’s casual, unpretentious, and a perfect way to share love without it feeling too heavy.
5. “Guess what?”
“What?”
“I love you!”
This game is a hit in our house.
I started it with my kids when they were tiny, and now, if I so much as say “Guess what” they immediately cut me off with, “You love me?”
It’s hilarious how quickly they catch on, but it’s also the sweetest tradeoff—I wouldn’t want it any other way.
6. “Aww, I was hoping you’d say that.”
This one’s great for keeping it light when kids say “I love you” out of the blue. A mom I know shared how she used it with her 7-year-old son once, and it made him giggle.
Now he says it to her first just to get that reaction.
7. “Good, because I’m not returning the gift receipt!”
A perfect response for older kids who can appreciate a bit of humor.
I’ve heard this works great with preteens—one dad mentioned his daughter loves how goofy it is and now says it back to him.
8. “Well, you’ve got great taste!”
My daughter would probably roll her eyes at this one, but it’s exactly why it works!
It’s cheeky and playful—perfect for those moments when you want to acknowledge their love without being overly serious.
9. “You’re alright, I guess.”
Classic kid-parent banter. I heard a story about a dad whose son used this on him after he said, “I love you.”
It became their back-and-forth routine, showing that even sarcasm can be an affectionate language.
10. “Prove it!”
I tried this one with my son once, and his “proof” was running up and hugging me so hard I almost fell over.
I’ve heard other parents say their kids bring drawings, do a funny dance, or grab a favorite snack. It’s a fun, playful challenge that often ends in giggles or sweet gestures.