I think I would describe it in terms of our relationship. How I will always be there to protect them and care for them and have fun with them and make sure they learn what they need to to survive in this world. I will care for them and about them, and it will always be a joy to see them. They make me happy.
I would try to explain it in terms of actions, not concepts or even feelings. At that age, I think it needs to be concrete. Is love real?
I felt that my parents didn’t love me because they spent time with my siblings and not me at bedtime. I was unsure as to whether they would take me in all the time, and let me share their roof.
My attitude is that my children are always welcome in my home and can always draw on my attention and support. If they start acting violent or in some other way hurtful, we may revisit that issue. But my assumptions is that won’t happen, and they are always welcome and that’s what love means.