Page 3 - Final Lesson-3.pmd

Needs and Rights of Children

grow up to be confident and socially well-adjusted individuals. On the
other hand, children who do not receive such an environment feel lonely,
ignored, lack initiative and are withdrawn. Unmet needs of love and Notes
affection lead to maladjustment due to the inability to connect emotionally
with others.

(iii) Understanding and acceptance: Understanding and acceptance of the
child by the parents and caregivers is another psychological need of
children. A feeling of being valued, boosts the confidence of children.

Children’s understanding about the self is formed on the basis of their daily
life experiences and interactions within their families and communities. This
includes their relationships with people, places and things and also the behavior
and responses of others. Fulfillment of the above-mentioned psychological
needs of children help develop a positive self concept. Hence, developing a
positive self concept among children is a must for which, healthy family
environment, supportive neighbourhood and positive school experiences are
important. To fulfill the psychological needs of children, caregivers must ensure
a safe, secure, loving environment in which they must call them by their names,
greet them with a smile, praise and encourage them, and also support them in
their day-to-day activities.

3.1.2 Need of Health and Nutrition Including Supplementary Nutrition

A healthy and happy childhood is the basis for a stable and strong adulthood.
Foundation of good health is laid during the early years of life. Physical health
is influenced by many factors, such as biology/ genes, and environmental factors
like nutrition, immunisation, and opportunities for physical activities and
exercise. Normal growth of children gets affected, if they do not get good
nutrition and medical care during their early years. Lack of healthy and nutritious
food may lead to poor growth and health problems like weakness, illness and
diseases. This will further affect physical stamina and cognitive development of
children. Parents and caregivers need be aware of the health and nutritional needs
of children during these years. For this they should regularly monitor their child’s
health and physical development and take necessary measures.
Given below are a few guidelines to ensure the health and nutritional needs of
children:

• Age appropriate gain in height and weight indicates normal health of
children. Therefore, a monthly or at least a quarterly record of the height
and weight of children may be maintained in a growth chart. If a child is
losing or not gaining weight, the child should be shown to a doctor. The
basic purpose of monitoring growth is to prevent malnutrition.

• Malnutrition occurs if the child does not get the right kind of food, i.e.,

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 33