Montessori, M., & Costelloe, M. J. (1972). Introduction, Childhood: A Social -Problem. The secret of childhood (pp. 26-28). New York: Ballantine Books. (Original work published 1966)

Thoughts after reading PART I: 5. The natural instincts

“(O)ver and above the delicate care that is lavished upon the physical welfare of a newborn child, attention should be paid to its psychic needs as well.” (p.29, para. 3)

This chapter reminds the reader, that animals in nature show great care in the protection and welfare of our animals.  Their motives are instinctive.   I have the same desire to care and protect for my children.  Yet there is another important aspect, beyond physical care, that is important: spiritual or psychic needs.  It can be easy to get attached to scheduled feedings and diaper changes, but  as parents we are meant to truly nurture our children, passing on our love and wisdom. Providing just the basics without “love” and can be harmful to a child.

I loved singing to my babies.  Each child I cradled in arms and sang endless lullabies.  I will never forget my daughter, only months old, cooing along with me with the sweetest voice.  I tell her today, when she was young I gave her singing lessons.

I even wrote a special lullaby for each of my daughters.  This was an expression of love that I gave to them. Even though they are approaching their teenage years, they still want me to sing them their song.  I believe that singing to them nurtured their spirit from a very young age and today it connects them to feelings of comfort and safety they felt as babies.