Five Things Your Wildflower Child Needs

1.  To know they are loved, without any strings attached, no matter what their behavior is, no matter what age they are or what they look like. Wildflowers need to know that no matter what they have done in the past, you love them always and forever.

2. Boundaries. This makes them feel safe. They cannot grow in the road where traffic will run them over, nor in any other unsafe space. Wildflowers need to know what locations are safe and have discernment and training as to what locations and activities are not safe.

3. Consequences. If they drop it, they must pick it up if possible. If they break it, they must fix or replace it. If they lose it, they must find it or replace it. If they spill it, they must wipe it up or pick it up. Wildflowers must know there is a result to every action they choose.

4. Rewards. If they succeed in picking up their room, they can have ice cream. If they get straight A's, they can have a special outing with parents. If they do the yardwork for a month, they can have a certain allowance in money or similar reward. Wildflowers must know they have something to look forward to for doing a good job.

5. Cultivation. If they love hammers and saw, take them to a construction site, with permission, and have them shadow a builder. If they love saxophones, take them to a concert-- give them lessons if possible. If they love birthing shows, take them to the birthing unit of the hospital to hold babies or shadow a nurse or doctor, as is age appropriate. Wildflowers must know they will be supported in their gifts, talents and interests.