I just caught up on your sitch. I totally agree with what you said "do what works". Shower him with affection. You have seen the results of what that does. The results are positive. Although maybe not always perfect, it is positive and over time will strengthen the relationship.
I can relate to your struggles having 5 little ones of my own and know how hard it is to work full time and balance everything else in the house. You are amazing!
H-46 XW-38 T-7 M-6 S-9,8,8,6,4 S 11/30/15, I filed 12/8/15 EA 2/1/16 D dismissed 3/24/16 PA 3/18/16 confirmed 4/22/16 XW files for D 4/1/16 - D final 11/17/16 Finally moving forward...