Seven things we need to give our children in order for them to thrive by Nettie Gallagher. Including simple ways you can integrate each ingredient into daily life
We all want the best for our children. I want my children to grow up to be happy and well adjusted; to be able to make informed choices and be independent; to have a sense of connection with and respect for the world in which they live: with Nature and with people from all walks of life and cultures; to be kind and have empathy for others.
I want them to have a strong sense of identity; to be passionate and have a positive attitude; to always try their hardest and be the best that they can be; to make the morally right choice and be true to their beliefs.
I believe these things cannot be taught at school. In fact, I think they cannot be taught full stop. These things can only be developed slowly, over a long period of time. These values and traits are like tiny seeds that grow in your child’s heart. They need to be nourished and nurtured and it is the stuff of childhood and our love as parents or guardians that will water them.
A true childhood, one where children are free to explore, to wonder, to play, to experiment and to imagine is becoming a rarity. All too often technology, the influences of the media and the hustle and bustle of modern life is snatching childhood away, depriving our children of the chance to connect with others and the world in a real and authentic way.
