When a child asks you a simple question, it can shake your world. That’s exactly what happened to Bollywood actress Kajol during a recent episode of Too Much with Twinkle Khanna. Her 8-year-old son Yug asked her, “How much do you love yourself?” — and the moment sparked a deeper conversation on self-care, parenting, and the wisdom children sometimes carry.
In this article, we’ll explore Kajol’s poignant anecdote, unpack what it means for parents and self-care, and look at how we can all learn to listen more. Along the way, you’ll find practical takeaways, expert-backed insights, and answers to common questions. (Yes, I’m writing this like I’m talking to a smart friend — you.)
Kajol’s Story: A Child’s Voice That Matters
On the talk show Too Much with Twinkle Khanna, Kajol revealed that during a candid moment at home, her young son Yug asked her: “How much do you love yourself?” This wasn’t just innocence speaking — it was a reminder for her to pause and evaluate how she treats herself.
Kajol used the moment to urge parents to listen to their children, especially when they voice concerns about emotional or mental states. She emphasized that kids are often more observant and sensitive than we give them credit for.
This story resonated because it’s rare that children remind adults about adult challenges like self-worth or self-care. Yet Yug’s question cut straight to the heart of it.
The Message Behind the Words
Why a child’s question like this matters
- Children pick up on emotional patterns, moods, and silences.
- Their questions can reflect their own fears or observations — perhaps they sense a parent is under stress.
- This kind of question invites vulnerability and introspection, not just for the parent, but for the family as a whole.
Self-care and self-love: What they really mean
Self-care is not just about spa days or hobbies. It’s setting boundaries, saying “no” when needed, prioritizing one’s mental health, and giving oneself permission to rest or recharge.
When Kajol’s son asks about self-love, it’s an invitation to reexamine whether we treat ourselves as kindly as we treat others.
Parenting through listening
By sharing this story, Kajol underscores something many psychologists recommend: active listening with children. Rather than dismissing a child’s question as naive, honoring it can build trust, understanding, and emotional safety.
Broader Context: Kajol on Parenting and Her Children
Kajol has often spoken about her parenting journey with her daughter Nysa and son Yug. In previous interviews, she has described how she’s tried to let them grow as individuals rather than imposing her image or expectations on them.
She’s also admitted that balancing her creative work and motherhood has always been a challenge, and that her children sometimes get embarrassed when she cheers for them publicly.
These consistent themes — allowing children space, listening, and admitting imperfections — enrich the meaning behind the recent anecdote about Yug’s question.
What We Can Learn (And Do)
| Insight | Practical Action |
|---|---|
| Children’s questions are windows into their hearts | Pause, reflect, and ask back gently: “Why do you ask?” |
| Self-love must be active, not passive | Schedule times for rest, reflection, boundaries |
| Parenting is not about authority alone | Encourage open conversation and emotional honesty |
| You don’t have to have all answers | It’s okay to say, “I’ll think about that, and we can talk again” |
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q1. Should children really question parents about emotional things?
Absolutely. While parents often frame themselves as protectors, children are not oblivious. Questions like these can be their way of seeking reassurance or understanding. Treat them as an opportunity—not a threat.
Q2. How can a parent respond when a child asks a deep question like that?
Pause first. Breathe. Then respond at their level: “That’s a good question. Right now, I’m working on loving myself more. Maybe we can explore it together.” The goal is to open dialogue, not shut it down.
Q3. How can I build better listening habits with my kids?
- Dedicate time with no distractions (phones, TV off)
- Use reflective listening: repeat back what they said to confirm you understood
- Ask open questions: “How did that make you feel?” or “What do you think we can do?”
Q4. What if I don’t really know how to love myself?
That’s okay. Self-love is a lifelong practice. Start small: journaling, affirmations, therapy, exercise, or simply carving out time for a quiet walk. It’s normal not to have it all figured out.
Conclusion
Yug’s simple yet powerful question — “How much do you love yourself?” — delivers a message many of us forget in daily life. It nudges us to reflect, listen, and act. As Kajol urged, parents should not dismiss or underestimate questions from children. They may contain wisdom we need.
Takeaway: Next time someone — child or adult — asks you something that catches you off guard, pause. Listen. Treat it as an invitation, not a disruption.
If you enjoyed this article, I’d love to hear your thoughts. How would you respond to a question like that? Or if you want more stories like this or deeper tips on parenting and self-care, just say the word.
