What does it mean for a child to feel they matter to others? According to researchers at the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, “from the earliest years, children’s sense of mattering is shaped both by feeling valued and by adding value to others. Feeling valued fulfills a deep psychological need for both significance and security and fosters self-worth, confidence, and emotional well-being. Young children who feel valued are more resilient, motivated, and better able to deal with stress.”

Now, researchers are exploring how caregivers can contribute to the development of a strong sense of mattering in children. Check out the 11 tips for letting children know they matter.