Answer:
There are many ways that adults nurture. Four intentional ways that a parent or caregiver can nurture children include:
Practice empathy - Empathy requires that you observe another’s actions, recognize the related feeling that they are having and then vocalize it in a way that shows that you understand. Psychologist Alfred Adler explained it this way; Empathy is "seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another." This can be difficult if you have not experienced empathy yourself. Begin by observing a feeling in a child, give the feeling a name and then using the name of the feeling in a “you” message. “You must be frustrated at not being able to fit the puzzle piece in that spot.” “You probably wish that your friends would have stood up for you.” “You are angry because Joey took your toy and broke it.”
Establish routines - Children need schedules and depend on adults in their life to provide structure for them. You can nurture your child by providing regular meal, play, study and bedtime routines. By providing a schedule your child learns predictability through repetition, security through knowing what will happen next and some control over their environment. A regular routine enables children to reduce anxiety by knowing what is coming next.
Use positive touch - We all have a need for human touch. A positive touch is a hug, pat, gentle tickle or soft nudge. Regular warm and gentle touches can help children develop a healthy sense of self and can contribute to positive brain development. Positive touch can assist a child with regaining control when they are being redirected after misbehavior. A recent study by Michigan State University’s Kathy Stansbury showed that “positive touch caused children to comply more often, more quickly and with less fussing than negative touch or physical punishment.”
Keep children safe from harm - Children who are small need to feel safe in their own homes, childcare, in their communities and in the larger world around them. Provide limits for the children in your life by providing a safe environment. Choose child care providers carefully. Use car seats, baby gates and other approved equipment for very young children. Explore outdoor play areas for potential hazards and have rules for inside play that allow for learning while restricting unacceptable activities for toddlers and preschoolers. Talk about potential dangers without frightening children. Family friendly information is available from Safe Kids, an organization that is dedicated to providing parents and caregivers with practical resources to protect children from injuries.
