Maslow's Needs

The self-actualization level is where we tap into the drive to grow, no matter what stands in our way. I think of Ben Carson and Helen Keller; they stuck with their goals regardless of the obstacles. It’s being authentic, pursuing creativity and growth, and seeking purpose and meaning. No matter what, we never let go of that hidden dream.

Our inner dialogue matters. The words and phrases we beat ourselves up with impact us. And the lies we believe impact our self-esteem and self-worth. And our students do the same thing too.

Elise developed anxious attachments to her family and others around her. She shut off her emotions and built high emotional walls to keep from being hurt even more. This sounds like some of us adults, doesn’t it? When we are hurt by others enough times, we build walls so we don’t get hurt again. While we are protected in the moment, we are closing the door to finding healthy, trust-filled friendships, which according to Maslow, is a huge need for all of us.

When our safe spaces are no longer safe or we never have a place that we consider safe, then our second core need isn’t met. When we don’t have secure routines, protection from danger, financial and health stability, then our sense of safety is shaken. Do we have kids like Frank in our class?

Our students who have instability at this basic level of need are doing good to function during the day, much less perform at higher levels academically. When our students are worried about their next meal, math doesn’t matter. If they are concerned about being warm enough or whether they will have to spend the night in the car again, reading doesn’t matter. If they aren’t able to sleep because of the chaos happening in their house, catching a nap during science seems like a

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Opening Prayer Opening Story :                            In 2019, our church started a food pantry to help the occasional homeless person or family in need. What started as a small ministry grew into a much needed one when the pandemic of 2020 hit our small community. We outgrew our space within three months and needed a new one. By the end of 2020 we had grown from 12-17 families a month to 100 a month. Businesses closed, people lost jobs, and ou