Are You Ignoring These Essential Emotional Needs Of Your Child?
At times, parents get frustrated with their children because of their tantrums and unreasonable outbursts. Chances are that your children might be trying to express themselves and tell you something.
Being a parent, you should pay attention to minute details as most children are not able to put across their views clearly. The little ones may not understand you, instead it can be the other way around.
Here are some of the emotional needs of a child that you should never ignore:
Security
The need to feel secure is of prime importance for a child to open up. It is essential for the emotional well-being of children who look up to parents to experience a sense of security. To develop a secure atmosphere, parents need to be honest with their promises to children.
Hear them out
Listen to children when they are telling you something and don’t turn a deaf ear just because it doesn’t make sense. Like adults, children also want to be heard and understood.We can make an effort to recognise the need of a child to feel acknowledged and valued.
The need to be included
A child should never be made to feel left out from the decision-making process. Try and include them in the discussion or at least explain why they are excluded. They can, however, be a part of the happenings when there is a need and can also be appreciated for their contributions.
The need to be loved
The need to be loved is a primary emotion we all long for, and children are no exception. Shower your children with love, but ensure they don’t take advantage of it. You can spend some quality time with them, have fun and be a part of their interests and hobbies. This shows that you really care about them and that they are important to you.
The need to be validated
Consider your little one’s opinions and views, and listen to their ideas when they have something to share. Validation helps children feel and express their thoughts and emotions, feel more connected to their parents, and boosts their confidence and self-esteem.
Acceptance
The need to feel accepted is necessary for humans to come out as confident and assertive individuals. Being accepted by you allows children to feel free to explore their world and express themselves to you without fear of your disapproval. If children see you as accepting and valuing of them, then they will be able to accept and value themselves.
Children come into this world with basic emotional needs. The key is to be genuine and honest with them. Being attentive to your child’s emotional needs provides a foundation for success in their school, work, and life in general.
