Five Emotional Needs for a Kid
A common misconception about kids is that they’re emotionally resilient and have no real needs. While it may be true that, compared to adults, kids are less in touch with their emotions and more impulsive in how they react to them, they are still just as vulnerable regarding their feelings. Like adults, kids require specific emotional needs met daily to thrive and lead happy, healthy lives.
Table of Contents
1. Belonging
The need to belong is a child’s first and most basic need. They need to feel they have a place and a sense of belonging. You can be achieve this by regularly giving them time with family and friends and encouraging them to participate in activities that interest them, such as sports, art, or music. Achieving this sense of belonging will help children grow up feeling happy and confident.
2. Attention
The need for attention is a basic human need that allows children to feel safe and cared for. It’s one of the most important emotional needs for kids, as it helps them feel like they are a loved and integral part of their family. Children who don’t get enough attention might act out negatively, such as becoming aggressive or withdrawn.
When you give your child attention, ask them about their day and listen – they’ll appreciate the time you spend with them. Make eye contact, smile, make bedtime stories for kids, and touch them occasionally when talking to them. Respond to their feelings by trying not to say things like don’t be sad or don’t worry. Instead, show empathy by saying something like I’m sorry you’re feeling so low.
3. Feeling Important
Kids require a parent who listens and spends time with them. They need to know they matter and have a place in the family. They also need to feel important by having responsibilities appropriate for their age, such as helping with chores around the house, taking care of younger siblings, or participating in family decisions.
Children require space to think and figure out how to contribute. Kids need to make mistakes as they are necessary for kids can learn from them. A child’s errors should never result in punishment; instead, parents should focus on helping their child understand what went wrong and how they can do better next time.
4. Feeling Loved And Accepted
Every child needs to know that they are loved and accepted for who they are. When a child feels this way, they have the confidence to try new things and interact with others. If a child is not loved or accepted, they often feel lonely or sad. They may also start misbehaving because they don’t feel like anyone cares about them enough to watch what they do.
Many people take it as their responsibility to fill this need by giving children hugs and telling them how much they love them. The best place to provide love and acceptance is at home. Parents should always tell children how much they matter, whether their success in school or sports isn’t perfect.
5. Self-Esteem
Everyone wants their kids to succeed, but they require a healthy dose of self-esteem for that to happen. The ability to value oneself and believe in oneself is paramount for success.
Self-esteem starts with the parents. If parents are supportive and loving, chances are their children will be too. But it’s also crucial for parents not to overindulge their children or give them false praise.