Think of childhood: why children need love and support!

Think of childhood: why children need love and support!

As part of a lively political debate about children's rights in the Basic Law, the Freiburg medical ethicist and philosopher Giovanni Maio made a clear position. "Childhood is not a mere preliminary stage to adult," explains Maio, "but an independent phase of life with its own value." He was inspired by the principles of VN--Kinderrechtsponvention , which has been passed in 1989 and has been in force in Germany since 1992. Maio is about recognizing the intrinsic value of children and their ability to enthusiasm, curiosity and openness.

In his argument, Maio criticizes the tendency of many adults to push children into result -oriented thinking too early. This prevents children from discovering their world in their carefree and playful way. Adults often have a clear plan in their heads, while children first have to learn to explore their surroundings without pressure. These thoughts are part of Maío's latest essay "A small philosophy of the child from the perspective of his vulnerability", which was published in the anthology "The vulnerable person".

The importance of security and support

A central topic of his explanations is the vulnerability of children. "They are open and therefore manipulable," warns Maio. It is therefore crucial that they grow up in a safe environment where they experience love and security. Adults have an immense responsibility to show the children that they are valuable and have space for their development. "We need a culture of concern," demands Maio, "which focuses on the value and experience of all people, but especially children."

MAIO appeals to all adults to recognize that children not only have rights that are protected by the VN Convention on the Rights of Children, but also have special skills from which adults can also learn. Astonishment and curiosity are essential properties that have to be preserved. In this context, the convention is demanding the four basic principles - discrimination ban, right to personal development, childhood well -being and the right to participate - to take into account in every decision.

Together for a better future

This discussion is of great importance in society. It is about accompanying children in their development and offering them the necessary conditions. Maio emphasizes that each individual responsibility has to be held to give children a safe and beneficial environment in which they can develop. These ideas seem to be so important, especially at a time when the topic of child rights in Germany find more attention than ever.

Standing strong together for the concerns of children could finally open up new ways to shape society with fresh perspective and empathy. Because how Maio aptly puts it: "Vulnerability is not a weakness, it makes us human." The challenge is now to add this insight into the political structures and social coexistence. So it is only to be hoped that we can advance this process together in order to meet the needs of our youngest members.