A child is a human being who is young enough to be considered an infant, but who has not yet reached the age of maturity or sexual development that defines an adult. A child can be either a male or female. A child’s gender, age and developmental level define their relationship with adults in their lives. Children need firm, consistent guidelines for their safety and well-being. Children also learn best when the adults in their lives take a similar approach to their parenting styles, discipline and other important aspects of their upbringing. If one parent or caregiver has a very different approach to discipline than the other, or makes decisions about screen time or eating habits without consulting the children involved, it is harder for them to develop a sense of consistency and trust.

Children also need opportunities to play. This may be in a formal, structured setting such as a school playground, or in more informal settings such as the home garden or a neighborhood park. Children’s play can lead to the development of social skills and knowledge, such as how to get along with others and how to read and write. Children can also explore science concepts through play, such as learning about the life cycle of plants or the role of water in living things.

While it is normal for children to want to please adults, they do not understand that other people have different needs and preferences. As a result, they tend to treat other children as if they are extensions of themselves, and sometimes this leads to conflict. Parents can help their children avoid this problem by focusing on the qualities that they admire in other people and avoiding comparisons between them.

Empathy is a developmental stage in childhood that is important for children’s ability to be responsible members of their communities. For example, a 2-year-old may try to comfort a crying friend by offering her own pacifier or blanket. However, she cannot fully grasp why her friend is sad. She may even delight in knocking over another child’s block tower, because she does not fully understand that her actions could upset the builder.

The definition of a child varies across cultures and perspectives, from viewing them as small adults or treasures to understanding them as vulnerable beings that need protection. Christian belief defines children as valuable, unique creations of God endowed with purpose and the ability to know and worship Him. They belong to Him, are part of His creative plan, and He gifts them to mothers and fathers for their care. Children thrive when they are nurtured by families and communities of faith that ensure their safety and encourage their spiritual, emotional and social development. Children’s relationships with their parents and community influence their beliefs, values, morals and customs. This influence is especially strong for children in their formative years, which last from birth through adolescence. The Bible calls us to care for children, honor their parents and teach them about God’s love.