Balancing a very full and hectic life with our families and our jobs could mean that we may have been neglecting that all-important part of our child's life: their emotional well-being.
It is crucial that parents and all involved adults make that concerted joint effort to make sure that your child's emotional needs are met on a regular basis, in the same way, their physical needs are. When a child's emotional needs aren’t met, especially during the first three years of their life, it could have an adverse effect on their behaviour. This could manifest itself in a variety of ways: violence, disruptive behaviour etc.
The first three years of life are important in a number of ways. It is during this time that bonding and emotional separation takes place. Should there be disruptions to any of these processes, the outcome could have a negative impact on their behaviour.
Such an impact could go on to affect their relationships in the future.
The brain goes through its most rapid development during the first three years of life. Once a child reaches its third year, their brain is already hardwired' from the experiences they've had to that point. In order for their brain to be conditioned to expect positive things, It is important your child has these be loving, supportive, safe, positive experiences. The opposite will occur they have had hurtful, dangerous or frightening experiences.
So, what can you do to facilitate this…? Ensure your child feels safe and secure, have a structured, consistent schedule and routine. Try to spend as much quality time with your child at this time as you possibly can.
Contrary to what some might think, a child can sense when a schedule is stressful to you, which could make it become a frightening or confusing element for them. Therefore, it's important to take that time out to reassure them that you will always have time for them.
Conclusion
Don’t forget, your child's emotional and physical well-being are equally important. So do your best to ensure your child feels secure in the knowledge they are growing up safe, secure, treasured and loved.
