What is the first layer of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

The first layer of Maslow's hierarchy of needs is physiological needs. This foundational level encompasses the basic requirements necessary for human survival, such as air, water, food, shelter, sleep, and clothing. Maslow proposed that until these essential needs are met, individuals will be primarily motivated by them and will focus on satisfying these needs before they can address higher-level psychological and social needs.

Understanding this hierarchy is vital in various fields, including education and early years development, as it highlights that children must have their basic needs fulfilled to thrive emotionally and cognitively. For example, a child who is hungry or lacks proper shelter may struggle to focus on learning or forming relationships, indicating how critical it is to prioritize addressing physiological needs in any supportive environment.