We live in a world that loves to complicate things, especially when it comes to raising children. But amidst all the noise and chaos, it’s time to strip away the excess and focus on what truly matters.
In this article, let’s approach child rearing with the beginner’s mind, just like those genius rocket scientists. We’ll talk about the 15 things our kids desperately need more of, despite modern life doing everything possible to push these basic necessities to the brink of extinction.
1. Free play
Free play is essential for children’s healthy development and well-being. It’s not some optional extra; it’s a vital ingredient in their growth. However, scientists are sounding the alarm: kids are playing less than ever before (in this article we explain it in detail). And it profoundly impacts their mental health and socio-emotional skills development.
So, let’s stop over-scheduling their lives and give them the freedom to explore, create, and just have fun. If you need some practical tips on how to infuse your child’s life with free play, check out our article, 11 Ideas On How To Bring More Free Play Into Your Child’s Life.
2. Time in nature
Most of us live in concrete jungles, surrounded by glass and steel, while our children are cooped up indoors, glued to screens.And get this – according to a government funded survey in the UK, children spend less time outdoors than prison inmates. How crazy is that?
It’s time to fight back against this nature-deficit disorder that’s infecting our society. Let kids climb trees, get dirty, and chase butterflies. Nature is their playground, their sanctuary. And studies have proven that spending time in nature boosts kids’ cognitive function, fires up their creativity, and reminds them that they’re part of something bigger. So, value green time and let your kids connect with the earth. It’s good for their souls.
3. Sunshine
You know what’s free, abundant, and wildly underrated? Sunshine. The problem is that in our tech-driven age, we’ve become totally disconnected from it. Sunlight not only provides crucial vitamin D but also uplifts our kids’ – and ours -spirits and enhances overall well-being.
Encouraging them to spend time outdoors can have a profound impact on their physical and mental health. Even 15 minutes of soaking up the sun’s rays (especially in the morning) can make a world of difference. It’ll boost their immune systems, regulate their sleep patterns, and put a smile on their faces.
4. A daily rhythm
5. Freedom to explore
We’re living in an age of helicopter parenting and bubble-wrapped childhoods. But guess what? Kids need to scrape their knees, get lost, and discover the world on their own terms. We can’t hold their hands forever, nor should we want to.
So give your kids the freedom to explore their passions, take risks, and learn from their mistakes. That’s where true growth happens.
6. Boundaries
Yep, freedom is great, but let’s not forget about boundaries. Kids need limits to understand where the guardrails are. Boundaries teach them respect, responsibility, and accountability. So, set those non-negotiable rules, and let them test the waters within those safe confines. They might whine and complain, but deep down, they crave those boundaries, as it makes them feel secure. So, don’t be afraid to draw that line in the sand.
7. Simplicity
Our society is obsessed with materialism and this endless game of comparison. But guess what? Our kids don’t need all that clutter. They need simplicity. They don’t need a gazillion toys; they need something to play with. They don’t need a jam-packed calendar; they need free time to play, dream, and just be. So, embrace the mindset of essentialism and keep it simple.
8. Connection
In our fast-paced, mindless world, it’s all too easy to rush kids through the routines, punish them for challenging behaviour, and make excuses for not spending quality time together. But here’s the truth: kids crave connection. They want to be seen, heard and felt. And if we want them to thrive, we need to connect with them on a deeper level. We need to show them empathy, offer support instead of judgment, and be there for them when it counts.
9. Physical activity
In a digital age where screens dominate, physical activity often takes a backseat. However, regular exercise and active play are vital for our children’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, more than 80% of adolescents aged 11 to 17 years do not meet the recommended level of physical activity per day! Whether through sports, dance, or outdoor adventures, let’s encourage them to move their bodies, experience the joy of physical exertion, and develop a lifelong habit of staying active.
10. Challenges
Life isn’t all rainbows and unicorns. Challenges are the stepping stones to growth and resilience. Our kids need to learn how to face challenges head-on and come out the other side victorious. Push them out of their comfort zones, encourage them to take risks, and let them fail. It’s in those moments of struggle that they’ll discover their true strength and resilience.
11. Time with parents
We’re all busy, but our kids need us more than they need all those social media influencers. So make time! Put down your phone, close your laptop, and give them your undivided attention (aka special time). Talk to them, play with them, and be present. They won’t remember the things you bought them, but they’ll never forget the time you spent together.
12. Nutritious food
Junk food is slowly poisoning our kids’ bodies and minds. It’s time to clean up their diets and give them the fuel they need for healthy development and growth. Fill their plates with real food – fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains. Show them that nourishing their bodies is an act of self-love and respect.
13. Good role models
Let’s face it, we nag our kids all day long. We repeat ourselves a million times, and it feels like they never listen. Why? Because as Stephen Covey says in his fantastic book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families, “People do not hear if they do not feel and see. The logic of life will not take root if you don’t care or if you lack credibility.” So always show them what you teach. Invest in your credibility.
14. Laughter
Laughter, the secret sauce of childhood, holds the key to a world of wonders. It fuels growth, nurtures well-being, and ignites the spark of imagination. Kids need to laugh more because it fosters friendship, empowers them to face challenges with ease, and acts as the ultimate antidote to stress and anxiety.
So embrace the power of playful parenting. Be silly, make your kids laugh, and infuse their lives with boundless joy, especially during challenging moments.
15. Real friends
Humans are inherently social beings. Having a bunch of friends on social media might seem cool for kids, but let’s be honest, it’s nothing compared to real friendship. Children need those face-to-face interactions, roughhousing, and shared experiences.
So, encourage them to go out and play with their buddies, build forts, and engage in some good old-fashioned mischief. Real friends leave lasting memories, while virtual friends disappear with a click.
In conclusion, let’s cut through the clutter and give our kids what they truly need. Strip away the noise, focus on the essentials, and empower them to thrive in this chaotic world.
Loads of love,
Irina
