Dreamin Reviews: Orchid and Dandelions
By: Jasmin Roden, LMSW, CAADC
This review is a book on two different types of children. Dandelion and Orchid children. W. Thomas Boyce, MD presents to the reader a research-heavy book on what is the difference between orchid and dandelion children. Dr. Boyce is a pediatrician who has done extensive research into what makes a child resilient and what makes a child less likely to thrive. He researched the impact of developmental trauma and stress on children. For a brief overview of some of his research, check out Dr. Boyce’s Ted Talk on the subject. Interwoven in his research-filled book, The Orchid, and the Dandelion, is his personal story which is his muse for this research.
Dr. Boyce's book is loaded with research from his team and other pediatric scientists. He goes on to Define Dandelion children as children who show a remarkable capacity for thriving in almost every environmental circumstance they may experience. While Orchid children he defines as children that are exquisitely sensitive to their environment making them more vulnerable to conditions of adversity. He does caution that we can not place children into silos and that the concept of Orchids and Dandelions is more of a spectrum than black and white. He does lean on the almost now common knowledge of the ACE’s study. His findings point to children’s mannerisms and behaviors as almost always the interaction between nature and nurture or genes and environment.
Some interesting takeaways that I got from this book include the information about how important childhood development is in the preschool and kindergarten years and how we (society) should be investing more in our early childhood providers and educators to support all children, especially Orchid children. Another alarming reality is that Orchid children who grow up in low socioeconomic status homes are at a much higher risk for chronic health conditions and early death. Again, alarms should be sounding to support those children and families that need it. We can do better America.
Chapter 8 is all about how adults, not just the parents, support those identified as Orchid children. Family routines, acceptance, and affection from parents are important to orchid children. Dr. Boyce states that Orchid children thrive even if there is only one supportive and responsive parent/caregiver in that child's life. Praising the orchid child's skills and gifts and less focus on what challenges they may have is also important. And as for all children, encouraging young children to engage in imaginative play. This chapter gives tips on how to apply this in children’s everyday lives.
Recommended Reader: I believe that professionals who work with children or really anyone who provides care to children would be a good audience for this book. Parents may also benefit from some of the practical tips that Dr. Boyce provides.
Readability: This book is a bit dense in the beginning with all of the research literature. Dr. Boyce does interweave some more personal stories throughout which helps with the density. I would say that this is a moderate-level book.
It is important to note that these books and other resources are not appropriate or meant to replace mental health or substance abuse treatment. If your symptoms are impacting your daily life, please seek treatment.