Meeting Children’s Needs Physical, Social, Emotional & Intellectual

Meeting Physical Needs Physical needs must be met before any other needs can be met FoodClothingShelter Medical Care

Food Offer small servings Involve them in menu planning Allow them to assist in preparation Snacks need to be foods they can eat with their fingers Offer bright colors when possible

Clothing Choose clothes that fit and are comfortable – allowing freedom of movement Soft fabrics, such as knit, are preferred by children Self-help features – snaps, buttons, elastic waistbands, large arm and neck opening

A Healthy & Safe Environment Provide good nutrition Provide proper medical care Teach children good eating and sleeping skills Maintain a clean and safe environment Teach children to recognize and avoid safety hazards Supervise children well

Meeting Social & Emotional Needs Most important social skill – Ability to communicate Communication techniques –Direct eye contact –Keep messages simple and brief –Reinforce words with action when necessary –Use positive statements –Answer questions briefly and truthfully

Independence & Responsibility Allow children to use decision-making skills whenever possible Offer children equal alternatives Children need to learn to live with the results of their decisions, whether good or bad Encourage children to care for their own belongings

Providing Guidance Different guidance techniques for different ages, i.e. gestures and distractions Punishment techniques –Logical consequences –Withdrawal of favorite foods or belongings –Isolation –Restricting privileges –Physical punishment

Parenting Styles Authoritarian – parents rule single- handedly Permissive – children are allowed to set their own rules Democratic – allows freedom within structure. Rules are made & explained

Intellectual Development PlayReadingStorytelling Art Activities Music Watching T.V. and Movies

Selecting Toys Age Appropriateness Safety – avoid toys with small parts

The End