Children need high-touch personal interactions every day to develop their social-emotional skills. They can’t learn to read cues and communicate effectively if they are not talking with someone who is interested in them. They also need to have time each day to practice listening and responding without distractions. This can be done by talking about the things they are most interested in with them, or by taking them on hikes and letting them lead the way, or by encouraging them to read maps and follow GPS instructions.

The concept of childhood began to emerge in the seventeenth century when adults began to think of young people as separate beings that needed protection and training from their elders. However, the dichotomy between the high-minded romantic ideals of childhood and the reality of child exploitation in factories, mines and chimney sweep jobs became obvious, and led to the first campaigns for child protection laws.

Biologically, the term child refers to any person between birth and puberty. Legally, it can be defined in many different ways and is usually equated with an age of less than 18. In most cultures, a child is considered to be unable to make serious decisions or live on their own and is dependent on the family for financial and emotional support.

In a society that is increasingly global and diverse, it is important to teach children about the importance of respecting other people’s rights, cultures and differences. This is essential to helping them to live peacefully with their fellow human beings and to protect the environment. It is also crucial to help them understand their own rights and abilities, so that they can achieve their full potential. This will allow them to contribute positively to the world and to build a better future for themselves, their families and their community.

Whether you are a parent, teacher or caregiver, it is important to set clear boundaries for children and stick with them. They often feel safer and more secure when there are consistent rules, especially if they are explained to them. Boundaries work best when they are not arbitrary, but are based on health and safety considerations, or are a response to a behaviour issue that needs to be addressed. It is also important that everyone who looks after your child — including grandparents, babysitters and nursery staff — is consistent in the way they raise them and sets out clear expectations for them, such as bedtime routines and eating habits. This will make it much easier for them to learn and grow in a supportive and safe environment.