Pain left unattended only grows, makes us sick and cries for our attention. But if pain is acknowledged and heard then it is at least reduced to a level of management. We must give all children the opportunity and tools to address their emotional well being. Not just their pain, but also their joy. They can speak it, read about it, write it, sing it, draw it or paint it.
Children can become aware of their own valuable contributions to their school, family and community.
They can become aware that, yes it is good to 'become somebody', but most importantly, they already are someone of immense value. The message that we sometimes give children is that 'when they grow-up' they will be someone of value. As adults we must focus on who children already are and acknowledge their daily progress and unique personalities. I started this column talking about the availability of computers in our schools. American families were already stretched for time at home.