To be secure and safe Children must believe that they are living and learning in a safe environment, and that the people in their life are doing all possible to keep them safe from physical and mental damage. They rely on their parents to safeguard their feelings and not place them in circumstances where they will fail. Parents need to be aware of how their actions may be affecting their children and take action if they find that they are not being met. 2. To have love and respect Children need to know that they are valued and loved, and that they are important to someone. They need to feel special and unique, and that they can trust those around them. Young children especially need to feel cherished and protected by their parents. The needs of older children may include having freedom and responsibility within limits, knowing that they are able to cope with problems without assistance, and having fun! 3. To be accepted and belong Children need to know that they can trust others to accept them for who they are, and that these others will not try to change them. They need to feel comfortable in their own skin and not see themselves as victims of bullying. Young children especially need to feel confident in themselves and their abilities, while older children may want to be trusted not to cause trouble again.