There is much more to child development than provision of basic needs

In a survey conducted in Kenya by Parenting in Africa Network (PAN) and whose results are contained in a 2013 report titled, “Skillful parenting and Moulding behaviour at an early age”, play and a warm, loving and stable environment ranked lowly amongst the most essential needs for child development with only 1% and 13% of respondents respectively citing them as essential. Only 13% of the respondents actively played with their children. Most respondents cited balanced diet and medical care/immunization as the most essential needs for child development. The study concludes that there is need for parents to understand and appreciate all the aspects of child development if they are to ensure holistic development of their children.

Whereas the importance of provision of basic needs cannot be understated, the consequences of lack of play, a warm, loving and stable environment coupled with parental involvement can be dire to the development of a child. Play is an essential ingredient for the motor and social development of a child. On the other hand, a stable environment and direct parent involvement in the upbringing of a child are crucial for the development of a secure attachment in children below the age of three. Attachment which is a deep and enduring emotional bond that a child develops towards a primary and consistent caregiver greatly influences the psychosocial and cognitive development of a child.