A Sense of Belonging and Placement in the World
Just like adults, children need to have a sense of belonging and placement in the world. In this article, we’ll take a look at how we can foster that in early childhood.
Family Love
One of our first interactions with belonging as a child is through our family unit. Our parents or guardians, perhaps our siblings, our extended family: they are all important in giving us that sense of placement and belonging.
Spend Time Together
When you spend time with your child, you are showing them that you are interested in them and who they are. This boosts their self-esteem and makes them feel special, helping them feel like they matter.
Spending time together allows members of the family to bond with one another and forms a deep sense of love and care.
Care
Show your child that you love and care for them by telling them, and doing things together that show that you mean what you say. Perhaps that could be going to the park together, or seeing a movie that your child really wants to see.
Feel Valued
Belonging and finding your place in the world is easier when you feel valued. This can be done in several ways. You can praise your child when they do something right. You can help them find autonomy by giving them chores to do, which will make them feel valued because they’ll feel that you trust them.
You can ask them questions about themselves and take an interest in their activities, wishes and goals for the future.
You can also help them feel valued by focusing on their strengths, and helping them work on their mistakes.
Community
Children enjoy belonging in their community. Saying ‘hello’ to people they know at the shops, thanking bus drivers as they leave the bus and visiting community centres such as the library, all promote a sense of community for young children.
Join a Sport
Shared experiences create strong and valuable bonds. Working together in a team to achieve a common goal will grow your child’s self-esteem and help them find their place in the world.
Early Learning Centre
Early learning schools provide great environments for social development and self-esteem development. Learning, playing and growing in an environment where other children are experiencing the same thing will help your child feel like part of a community which values them.
Club
Signing up your child to a local club, such as Boy/Girl Scouts, a music club, or even an art or reading club will show your child that there are other children with the same interests as them out there.
When friendships blossom, your child will feel loved and cared for.
Get In Touch for More Information
It is vital for children to feel like they belong and have a place in the world. If you have any questions about this article, or if you have any questions about our programs for babies, toddlers and kindy, feel free to contact us.
