Caring for the Whole Child: A Holistic Approach to Spirituality

The 1989 Children Act recognized the importance of the spiritual and religious needs of the child, but to date there has been no clear definition of the nature of these needs, and no practical guidance on how they should relate to professional practice. This book, which was developed as a direct response to this need for classification, fills the gap in the existing literature. Taking a fully multifaith approach, the author highlights the value of considering spirituality as a holistic concept consisting of human, devotional and practical spirituality. He argues that these three components are intrinsically linked and interdependent, and are fundamental to the overall well-being of every child. The book stresses the importance of considering the religious needs of children, both within the care situation and at school. The author sees devotional spirituality - adherence to and practice of religious faith - as the core element, through which human and practical spirituality are enriched and given meaning, order and expression. The book also reinforces the need for religious communities to be supportive to all children and young people, as well as to those concerned with child welfare. This is a book for social services, educationalists and memebers of all faith communities who are concerned with child care, youth work and education.