It would be nice if they became a little different – not so busy and more understanding, let them swear less and never be sad … We asked children “from 4 to 14” about how they would like to see their parents in the coming year.
First, we turned to adults: “What do you think your child will want?” And many lowered their eyes in response, embarrassed or not daring to guess what kind of changes their children would like for their dads and moms in the coming year. Then we talked with the children themselves – and everyone spoke in different ways. Adolescents (when there was an opportunity to speak without their parents) answered the question confidently, without hesitation. Those who were younger were more difficult to talk to, but they formulated their main idea very accurately. Following the interview, to the question “Do you want to know what he (a) said (a)?” almost all parents answered: “Thank you, we’d better…read…we’ll see…” Such embarrassment is easy to understand, but you can be sure: there were no special grounds for it in the words of the children. Even despite the fact that from the age of seven or eight, a child ceases to perceive parents as ideal and omnipotent people: children notice our mistakes, shortcomings and are ready to name them … What do they want? The smallest ones really need a sense of security, those who are older need freedom, and almost everyone needs attention and trust … Do you have an idea that it would be your child who would answer such a question? Try asking it to your kids and you will surely learn more about them… and certainly about yourself too.