A child may have a comfortable home, attend the best school and have everything they need, but this does not necessarily mean they feel loved and emotionally safe.
This was highlighted by Substance Abuse Advisory Council Director Josua Naisele, who says children do not measure love by what their parents buy for them, but by how they feel when they are around their parents.
Naisele says children grow up surrounded by the emotions created in their homes, whether it is happiness, arguments, sadness or respect.
He says parents should therefore focus not only on providing for their children’s material needs, but also on creating a positive and supportive environment at home.
Naisele says a child can have a big room, attend the best school and have many toys, but still not feel emotionally safe if they do not feel loved, respected and supported.
He further says that parents should create a home that children look forward to returning to after school because they know they will be welcomed, listened to and treated with respect.
Naisele adds that making children feel safe, loved and supported at home can help strengthen their emotional wellbeing.
