“If a society values its children, it must cherish their parents.” ~ John Bowlby, psychologist and child development specialist.
This quote echoed in my mind throughout my study of infant, early childhood and family mental health.
What does it mean to cherish the parents?
Access to education. A minimum wage that allows a family of four to live in a 2-bedroom apartment. 6-12 months of paid parental leave to bond with a new addition to the family. Or simply praising a parent for their work of raising kids. Or giving an encouraging smile to a parent who struggles with a crying child.
Just a few ways that society can reduce stress in the lives of families. A parent living under stressful circumstances means there is a child or children enduring stress. A child living in chronic stress is a child that has a steeper climb to school readiness.
A cherished parent can then cherish their baby.
For more, read https://casetext.com/analysis/if-a-society-values-its-children-it-must-cherish-their-parents
Photo by Larry Crayton on Unsplash
