A few years ago I attended a conference where a presenter told us about the Dandelion Orchid Theory.  What, you ask, do flowers have to do with children?

Every parent knows that their child is born with a certain way of reacting to the world: what we sometimes call their temperament. Within a family each child can  have an incredibly different temperament. Our environment (home, neighbourhood, school, family, friends) mixed with our temperament creates the person we become.

The Dandelion Orchid Theory suggests that dandelion children will thrive in almost any environment.  These are the kids that thrive despite all odds: even when growing up in a really challenging environment.

Orchid children are much more sensitive.  They need careful nurturing to thrive.  A recent article in the Globe and Mail talks about research that suggests that Orchid children will thrive in the right environment. 

Of course, when I told my three daughters about the Dandelion Orchid Theory they all proudly proclaimed themselves to be dandelions.  I would agree with 2 of the 3.  Thankfully the orchid is thriving!  But it did take a lot of tender, loving care!

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