Did you know that your child came with an instruction manual?  The problem is, you need to be a developmental psychologist to read it. 

Fortunately for you, I happen to know one.  Dr. Nancy Buck is a PhD in developmental psychology….specializing in parenting.  She is also a Southern Rhode Islander who has shared her parenting advice on Oprah and Friends and in Psychology Today. 

I am going to share with you my recent conversation with Dr. Nancy, and she has read YOUR child’s instruction manual.  I’ve got your attention now. 

In the first segment, see the associated video, Dr. Nancy talks about our built in genetic programming.  It seems natural to think of our physical needs – food, water, sleep, etc.  There are also psychological needs that are just as real.  Learn what these five genetic needs are. 

This is chapter one in your child’s instruction manual.  See if your awareness of these needs can help guide you in your interactions with your infant / toddler / preschooler / spouse / parent. 

As I just implied, these needs do not go away with adulthood.  And all of your interactions (with other humans at least) will improve if you are aware of the needs of the people involved.  Tune in next week for more with Dr. Nancy Buck.  And if you can’t wait a week, check out her fabulous book Why do kids act that way? available on her website.