On the Coast – Families Issue 93 | April / May 2018 | Page 10

The importance of attachment A s a parent, we want our children to be happy, enjoy family life, have good friendships, do well in school, have high self-esteem, be kind, and reach their full potential. Many studies have shown that all of these things are possible when children have a secure attachment with at least one loving caring and protective parent. But what is meant by attachment? Attachment is about the quality and security of the relationship between by Lindie Nell a parent/caregiver and a child. A secure attachment is a special trusting emotional connection where the child uses the primary caregiver as a secure base to explore from and as a haven of safety and comfort. A secure attachment also regulates emotions by soothing distress and creating moments of joy. This wonderful connection between a parent and child is a child’s life line and will impact on all future relationships. Not all children form secure attachments with their parents. Insecure attachments can present in children as behavioural difficulties, being withdrawn, emotional regulation problems, sensory integration 30 Renwick Street, Wyoming Phone: 4328 2122 Vasectomies are a permanent and very effective way to stop unwanted pregnancies. They are performed under local anaesthetic and have a quick recovery time. IS YOUR FAMILY COMPLETE? Have you thought of your options? Have you considered a vasectomy? 10 KIDZ O N T H E C OA ST For more information regarding the procedure, fees or any other issues of concern please visit our website or contact our friendly staff. www.cornerfamilysurgery.com.au problems, hyperactivity, and other difficulties such as attention problems, anxiety and a lack of empathy. People often assume when a child is insecurely attached that this is due to neglect, abuse, inconsistency or rejection by their parents. These aspects can indeed result in insecure attachment or even attachment disorders. However, these are not the only reasons children can form insecure attachments. I often work with children and their parents where they have insecure attachments due to unintentional circumstances. An example of this is birth trauma where a baby has been removed and cared for