ABSTRACT
Based on the objective conception of the childhood good developed in this book, this chapter stipulates an account of the components of childhood well-being (or childhood interests). By reference to argument and evidence, an objective list of childhood interests is created. These represent moral claims, being things that are morally owed children. These moral claims place obligations on identifiable persons and institutions within society. The account of childhood interests developed here can be summarized in a list as follows:
Protect a child’s life
Provide for a child’s health needs
Adequate nutrition
Sufficient sleep
Protection against infectious disease and risk factors that cause disease
Protection against injuries and violence
Access to decent minimum of medical care
Provide for a child’s educational and developmental needs
Decent minimum education focused on developing the abilities to pursue the good and participate in the societal project to build the common good
Play
Discipline/correction
Belonging and attachments
The parent-child relationship
Belonging in a family, community, and society (includes traditions, values, religion)
Respect; freedom from abuse and invidious discrimination
