Needs vs. Wants

Every parent, at some point, thinks about what their child(ren) need(s) most.  In today's over-stimulating world it can be easy to forget what children actually need.  They (we) need clean air, clean water, fresh food, love, guidance, and time and space to play and explore.  Everything else, from T.V. to cell phones, is simply "extra" and not necessary to the health of children.  Money is not an issue, so focus on time, because you can't buy time with your children.  Money is not an issue, so focus on experience, because you can't buy the lessons that come from having fun, educational experiences with children.  Children can learn more from a trip into the woods, watching bugs and birds and playing with sticks, than a day at the museum or mall.  Children learn from their parents.  Parents who eat vegetables have children who eat vegetables.  Parents who love to learn have children who love to learn.  These are, of course, generalizations, but they hold true for most people.  What children need is parents, caregivers, and the planet to be healthy.  Remember that the next time your child "needs" a new toy or the newest technological gadget.  Take them camping and leave the "electronics" at home.  You'll have everything you need, they'll have everything that they need and, maybe, learn the difference between "need" and "want".  "Needs" satisfy and support us while "wants" lead to suffering for more and more and more.  What do you and your children really need?