Bodily Needs

Level One — Meeting Our Children’s Bodily Needs

We couldn’t live without nutritious food, clean water and air, and regular sleep.  We must also feel good about and take pleasure in our bodies and sexuality. We give babies a sense of themselves, their sexuality, and their bodies from birth. We make them feel secure or insecure by

• the way we hold and touch them 
• the way we feed, wash, diaper, and toilet train them
• the tone of voice we use
• letting them feel comfortable with their bodies and emotions. 

Kids have healthier feelings if we do these things in a pleasant and caring way.

It’s normal for babies to explore their bodies. They are quick to learn that touching themselves — especially their sex organs — feels good. If we
yell at them or slap their hands, they may do it anyway — but they'll feel guilty about it. They may become ashamed of their bodies and sexuality.
And they may not trust us later in life for guidance about sex and sexuality. 

Level-One Reality Check — Needs of the Body
Realistic   Unrealistic
    [ ]           [ ]         I can provide my child with nutritious food.   
    [ ]           [ ]         My routine will allow my child to get plenty of sleep, regularly.
    [ ]           [ ]         I can keep my child clean.
    [ ]           [ ]         I can be sure my child receives regular medical care.
    [ ]           [ ]         I can comfort my child when she or he needs to relieve stress  
                               and anxiety by crying.
    [ ]           [ ]         I can acknowledge that my child is a sexual being.

These are all realistic goals for good parents. Parents who try to meet these basic “level one” needs help their children go on to develop needs for feeling safe and secure.