by Maurice Sassoon

Created on: August 06, 2008   Last Updated: July 27, 2011

Children, unlike adults, are heavily dependent on their parents or guardians for their essential needs and feel helpless when ignored and neglected. It is incumbent on parents or guardians to be cognizant of the fact that they must first love their children. In this respect, lip service is not enough; love and care ought to be demonstrated in ways that should make their children genuinely aware of the special relationship between them and their parents or guardians, as well as provide them with a sense of reciprocity in the way of being respectful and obedient, while refraining from being overly demanding and inconsiderate.

Parents or guardians should teach their children to behave within the bounds of propriety. At the same time, they should not unduly impose unfulfilling strictures on their children.

Children are generally curious and may ask many questions about things that they may come across, from time to time. In this respect, parents or guardians should be patient and readily disposed to answer their questions, in order for them to understand certain facts of life that can be helpful in the process of their mental development.

Beating a child that is disrespectful or disobedient can be particularly harmful and does not serve any useful purpose. The adage, "spare the rod, and spoil the child," is an anachronism that does not not work in this day and age. What generally works in the way of helping a child understand the difference between right and wrong is a simple, psychological approach, a perception that child psychologists believe to be effective: Ask the child to be "nice" and in return, be rewarded for good behavior.

What also makes a difference in a child's life is entertainment. This includes, among other things, picnicing, camping, spending some time at the beach, as well as occasionally dining in a restaurant. Recreation serves to improve a child's general outlook and behavior.

A child spends a lot of time watching his or her parents closely and copying the things that they are accustomed to do. Generally, a child enjoys playing with other children, singing songs and listening to stories. These are a part of mental growth. Parents or guardians should find ways to help their children have an easier time growing up. Being kind to a child goes a long way in his or her mental development. It also sets a good example for the child to be kind to others and behaving appropriately at all times.

Every human being is born with a certain basic intelligence that will increase with age. Love and care, together with a sense of responsibility can contribute to a child's growth and development to a great extent.

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