View Single Post
Old 14-01-2012, 21:13   #52
annesingleton
Senior Member
 
annesingleton's Avatar
 

Re: Unhappy children.

Quote:
Originally Posted by garinda View Post
You earlier mentioned children not having their own bedroom, complete with their own TV, gasp, computers, and iPods, what else, besides those necessities, constitutes 'the very basics'?

Other than through criminal neglect, because of our generous welfare state, I don't see many starving children, living in British gutters.
I would say that the very basics are a stable home environment, caring parent (s)/ carers, adequate heating in the home, a bedroom either shared or not with appropriate bed and bedding, a reasonable standard of cleanliness, adequate food and clothing, appropriate boundaries with earned respect from parent(s)/carers, an expectation to attend school, and appropriate values. Also a background which incorporates values in which the young person's needs take precedence over the needs of the adult. Very importantly unconditional love. Additionally but not necessarily a standard of living which would allow the young person to have an equal playing field with his/her peers. This is my opinion and no matter what the family income I consider this to be essential for a happy childhood.
annesingleton is offline   Reply With Quote