Children are people who are between the stages of infancy and puberty. They are often the offspring of parents, though they may also be adopted or foster children. They are considered to have fewer rights than adults, and are generally classed as incapable of making serious decisions by law. In most cultures, they must be under the care of a parent or guardian until they reach adulthood.
Throughout history, ideas about childhood have varied widely. Early notions were often romantic and idealistic, with children portrayed as innocent. This was in stark contrast to the reality of child labour and exploitation that arose from industrialisation. In the modern era, the gap between high-minded ideals and the reality of children’s lives has led to a commitment to protect children’s rights and promote their well-being.
From the earliest times, people have recognised the importance of the child. Aristotle, for example, argued that a child’s learning was essentially a painful process, requiring guidance and reprimand to become a fully functioning member of society. Today, the United Nations recognises that children have an inalienable right to a life of health and well-being and a quality education that will prepare them for adulthood. This includes a safe environment in which to grow, play and learn.
One way to encourage your children to try new things is to model them for them. When a child is trying to learn a physical skill like getting dressed, for instance, you might help them at first by holding their hands or guiding their movements. Then, as they get more confident, you might start to let go a little. You can also reinforce positive behaviour by praise.
When your child is playing with a friend, try not to pit them against each other. It might make them feel slighted if you tell them that they can’t both play with the toy at the same time, or if you say, “Who’s going to win?” In addition, try not to set up competitions in other ways, like encouraging your children to compete to see who can clean their room the fastest.
Sharing stories with your children can be a wonderful way to teach them. Not only do stories introduce children to new words, but they also help them understand the nuances of language such as metaphors, colloquialisms and word pairings. They can also be a great way to develop a love of reading.