Prenatal to Post secondary Partners have been asking the question: What Makes a Good Childhood?
We’ve collectively identified a working list of features of a good childhood, organized into the following seven themes:
Basic Needs
Housing, food & income
Play & Nature
Opportunities for creative, non-structured play, including freedom to run, play & explore.
Safety
Safe homes, safe schools & safe communities
Learning & Community Contribution
Access to a continuum of learning experiences & opportunities to contribute.
Identity
A sense of belonging & feeling wanted. Continued acceptance & unconditional regard even when young people become hard to appreciate or youth become intimidating.
Healthy Relationships (Informal Networks)
Love, enduring primary attachment, family, community, friendships & role models.
Community & Health Services (Formal Networks)
Including: Universal services such as recreation resources, neighborhood houses, and health care professionals. Preventative or safety-net supports such as mental health services and crisis response.
What do you think?
Tell us! What have we missed?
