A Child’s Rights

LOVE

Each child has a right to know that their parents love and want them.  He wants to know that someone is near who cares about what happens to him.  It is possible to discipline lovingly without distancing your child.

ACCEPTANCE

Each child needs to believe that their parent likes them just the way they are.  She must believe her parents like her the way she is all of the time, not only when she does what they want. He must know his parents accept him.  There is no room for name-calling and belittling tactics to control your child.

FAITH

Each child needs some moral standards to live by and someone to help them learn values that encourage kindness, courage, honesty, justice, and generosity.  A child lives what he/she learns.  You are the most important person in your child’s life for many years.  Use the time constructively.

PROTECTION

Each child needs to feel that someone will keep him/her safe from harm.  He/She will be afraid in strange situations and places.  He/She needs to know someone will help him/her face them.  You need to be emotionally present for your children.  Don’t make light of their fears.  They are very real to a child no matter how irrational to you.

INDEPENDENCE

Each child needs to know that his/her parents want him/her to grow up.  He/She needs to know that they want her to try new things and to do things herself.  He/She needs to know they are proud when he/she can help herself.  Don’t do for your child because it’s convenient for you or out of personal frustration.

GUIDANCE

Each child wants help in learning how to behave toward others.  She needs helpful examples.

CONTROL

Each child needs to know that there are safe and firm limits.  He needs to know that it is okay to have angry or jealous feelings but it is not okay to harm or hurt others to act out the feelings.