>>> The Four Hidden Emotional Needs of a Child <<<
I have a piece of paper secured to the side of my refrigerator that I was given when working as a school psychologist. I’ve kept it for years in its current location because of its importance. I often pass by and steal a quick look at its contents. It doesn’t take much…. just a glance, but it serves a purpose. It reminds me to take inventory of whether or not I’ve been doing a good job at meeting my children’s emotional needs. Hopefully, I am not only meeting their basic and physical needs, but their emotional, as well. These are the hidden kind that are much harder to communicate, especially as a child. After all, how many children do you know that come up to their parents and say, “Can you please give me some self worth today?” However, children do articulate their physical needs, such as being hungry, tired, or cold.
Although this list is not exhaustive of all deep-rooted emotional needs, it’s simple… and is universal to all children {Source: Your Child’s Hidden Needs – Bruce Narramore}.
This is what may happen if one {or more} of these core emotional needs are not met:
{All Images Created By: Simply Happenstance}
So how do these work together? Well, in addition to your sweet spoken words and affection, your time = LOVE! One way to show your children some LOVE is by giving them some of your undivided attention… perhaps spent boosting their self-CONFIDENCE & WORTH by participating in a fun activity or CONSTRUCTIVE PLAY! Try to make it a part of each day! For ideas, please visit our Think, Play, Create ~ Pinterest Board!
I genuinely hope that you find this information helpful and that you can store it in the forefront of your mind…. taking your own inventory of whether or not your child{ren}’s emotional needs are a priority and being met. Sometimes we just need to examine their current behavior and consider if the lack of one of these emotional needs may be the cause.
I’d love to hear your creative {or simplistic} ideas on how you meet these four important needs in your own homes!
