They want it.... they need it! Yes, the need our attention.
Children respond to unmet needs in their own ways. Some become whiny and fuss about everything. Nothing seems to satisfy them. This behavior can be very demanding and takes all of our energy.... and their's too. Others become complacent. They stop asking and learn to make do with the life they have been given. And some other children learn to meet their own needs. They are resourceful and watchful. They are always on the lookout for their own solution. No one knows exactly why children can be so different in their responses to life. But they are.
Our job is to observe them, noticing what is going on. Though it can be hard to tell for sure, our job is to assess their needs and do our best to meet them. Children need love, social interaction, food and shelter, consistent routines. A question that can help in the moment might be, "What is this behavior telling me that he/she needs right now?" Because they are trying to let us know.
During this season of Thanksgiving, let's try to remember to give the attention that our children long for.... enjoy!
1 comment:
My daughter is 11 and will frequently fake sick so that she can have my full attention. This is very frustrating as I have to take off work to pick her up at school and then the Dr visits. The co-pays really start to add up. I am almost confident that she is faking her illness and making herself throw up. For example: Last night she was laying in bed complaining of her stomach hurting after we had been to the Dr. She heard the Church bus pull up outside and magically, all of a sudden, she is feeling much better and wants to go to church. This is so frustrating!
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