"Home"

A Kid's Definition

Leigh Travis, Ph.D.

June 23, 1993

"Home" is a place where you, as a kid: have two parents who value you for what you are, who love and delight in you just because you're you and for what you're trying to become; a place and state of mind where no one lies to you; where you are, as an infant, fed, bathed, hugged, have you medical and other problems fixed; where, as you grow, the "rules" are the same for you and for your parents (excepting only their bedroom, which is mysteriously out of bounds); where the "rules" are also flexible and may be changed to reflect your growing independence; where everyone, including you, is expected to contribute to the household by doing certain chores; where your ideas and feelings are respected and valued and where, finally, you are free to leave without feeling any guilt whatsoever for going off to become the responsible, loving, adult your upbringing has taught, and allowed, you to become.