Children Need to Feel Safe and Secure

Article Link: http://www.exchangepress.com/article/children-need-to-feel-safe-and-secure/5010664/

Children Need to Feel Safe and Secure
by Diane E. Levin and Nancy Carlsson-Paige

CHILDREN NEED a caring, consistent relationship with a significant adult.

SO, WE NEED to provide an educational system with low teacher-to-child ratios, especially in urban and low income areas.

CHILDREN NEED to be treated with respect by adults.

SO, WE NEED to provide more anti-bias and cultural awareness training for adults so they can learn to better listen to the voices and understand the needs of children affected by violence.

CHILDREN NEED to see and learn non-violent ways to solve their conflicts.

SO, WE NEED to provide training in peacemaking skills for children, teachers, parents, and community leaders through schools, churches, community programs, and media.

CHILDREN NEED meaningful, worthwhile ways to spend their time.

SO, WE NEED to provide year-round school, after school, and community programs which enhance all aspects of their development.

CHILDREN NEED to believe in themselves and know that they have a future.

SO, WE NEED to provide opportunities for them to develop positive self-esteem so they learn to see themselves as self-sufficient and able to function in the mainstream of American society.

YOUNG PEOPLE WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED VIOLENCE TELL US THEY WANT to get out of the cycle of violence.

SO, WE NEED to provide supportive ...