What a Child Needs

This week we talked about what it is a child needs. It was such a good conversation because it discussed some of the basic needs that children need. Some of those being connection, belonging, & physical touch. This leads me to the question. How to we help children feel like they belong? I think part of helping children belong is letting them know that they are part of the family and they to have a responsibility. Obviously children don’t have to provide for the family and make sure things are running smoothly. But there are little things we can do to help children feel like they belong. Some ideas are: 

Let the kids choose the menu: 

allowing children to choose what is on the menu. But be creative. This doesn’t mean children get to choose what is for dinner every night. Maybe help them come up with some ideas, and let them know what a meal looks like. Include things you would like to make sure your children get in those meals, such as: vegetables, protein, and other essential nutrients. Let them choose one fun meal but also help them understand the concept of a balance diet. 

Let kids choose their outfits: 

Now obviously we can’t let a child wear the same dirty shirt and pants every day. But we can use these opportunities of giving them choices to guide them in the right direction. If we lay out four different options we are still giving the children a choice. But we are also teaching them what appropriate choices are and how to make them. 

In order for a child to feel like they belong it is essential to help them feel like they play a role. Try giving them responsibility and see what happens!

Another essential need of a child is connection! Honestly whom of us doesn’t need connection?! I know I do! We crave the feeling of connection. Because when we connect we feel understood, and we have a friend. At the end of the day all children have left are their families. It is best that we are there for them. I am grateful for my family and the connections that they gave me growing up  and the fact that they were my very best friends. With my mother I felt a connection of strength. She taught me how to be independent and that no matter what she would always love me. Isn’t that amazing? Love is the strongest connection of all. My father and I are so similar. In the way we think, and act. I have shared connections with him by sharing my thoughts and creative ideas with him. Nothing else in the world is better then being able to connect and become friends with your parents. Not every child gets that opportunity, but they can still find that strength and connection through church leaders, parents of friends, and teachers. As a society it is our responsibility to make sure that children are receiving connection. 

The last need (but not the only) I will talk about today is physical touch. Did you know children need physical touch? I didn’t. I knew, but I didn’t know. If that makes any sense. Physical touch does something to our brains and it helps us know we are loved. If you have a child or niece or nephew give them hug, and let them know they are loud. Sometimes actions speak louder than words. 

This week was by far was my favorite to learn from. We all need belonging, connection, and physical touch. I hope this post hast taught you something of worth. Have a great day!