Children are humans who need to be loved, nurtured and protected in order to grow into healthy adults. Every child has the right to a happy childhood, an adequate standard of living and an education that prepares them for productive and fulfilling lives. Millions of children around the world, however, are denied these basic rights. They die of hunger and disease; are victims of war, natural disasters, and HIV/AIDS; and are subjected to extreme forms of violence, exploitation and abuse.
In theology, a Christian definition of child considers all people as children of God (Jeremiah 1:5b). In addition, we believe that children have physical, moral, spiritual, cognitive, and emotional needs and are uniquely gifted for their particular context, including family culture, and social relations. Therefore, it is important for parents and other adults to take the time to understand the unique development of each individual child so they can best meet those needs.
A child is also a person who is under the legal age of majority, which varies between countries and states. This is a variable concept because some cultures recognize an age of adulthood that may differ from the age of majority in other jurisdictions. Children also are generally classed as unable to make serious decisions and must remain under the care of a responsible adult or in child custody, whether they live with their biological parents or not.
Despite the many difficulties that they face, children are resilient and have the ability to develop good habits. They can learn to be kind, helpful and compassionate if they are exposed to positive role models, taught healthy life skills and given the opportunity to practice empathy in their daily lives. In fact, studies show that children who are raised by loving, caring parents often are better behaved than those in neglectful or abusive homes.
Parents, teachers and other professionals have a responsibility to give children the tools they need to succeed in a complex, fast-changing world. It is also important to set firm and consistent guidelines for children, so they are not confused and feel safe and secure. It is particularly useful when all caregivers of children — such as parents, teachers, babysitters and childminders — adopt the same approach to daily routines, discipline, mealtimes, bedtimes, screen time and other important aspects of children’s lives. This consistency can help children to feel more secure and enables them to develop trusting relationships with adults. In addition, it helps them to be more likely to adhere to the rules when they are explained in a clear and meaningful way. For example, a young child is more likely to stay away from an open fire when they are told why, rather than being yelled at. This consistency is more effective if it is delivered in a gentle, calm and caring manner.