The notion of the “inner child” became very popular back in the 1990’s where individuals would look within and try discover or at least re-discover who they really were. Part of this was a healing process for a wounded self left behind from childhood when one grows up and becomes an adult. This could also include a process of forgiveness for oneself and also forgiveness for one’s parents for any indiscretions that occurred during their childhood. It became a bit of a strange phenomenon as many adults sort to find out why life for them had lost some meaning and perhaps even lost some of it’s purpose also.

For me, as a teacher I have always loved working with children as they are a constant reminder of my “inner child.” That sense of wonder, excitement, silliness, creativity, discovery and eccentric behaviour that is always present in children’s reality, all of the time.

This coupled with that complete honesty that comes from children that I could use with myself. That gives me this space within which I can always re-invent my life path….or journey. This honesty also allows me to begin again with myself and always find something new within myself to love and appreciate. And for me the “inner child” represents a self-love that comes from deep within me. A sense of love for all the things that make me, me.

And as a teacher I find that this discovery within myself once again isn’t really a discovery at all. Its just a re-focus on what has always been there within me, all of the time. A sense of self that comes from a time when my world was free, just, pleasant and really great fun. And as much as I have met many people on my journey who’s childhood’s were less then ideal I encourage them (both in conversation and by example) to find that essence of their “inner child”. That innocence within them that is peaceful, calming and nurturing. I even say that this is your own best friend within you.

As much as many adults (especially many teachers) want to scoff and dismiss this notion as completely ridiculous, these are the people that I would encourage to find their “inner child” the most.

Please…..begin this journey within yourself today. I guarantee you, it will be more than worth it.