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Moms, We Need To Remember These 8 Precautions When Our Baby Watches TV Cartoons
Parents are among the biggest aficionados of cartoon-film makers; what else brings an instant smile on the baby’s face? We have all relied on cartoons, every now and then, to keep the baby entertained or to calm a tantrum. Lately, the spate of educational cartoons has even made it possible to teach kids important developmental skills just by viewing these films. However, there is a darker side to this situation. Cartoon films can be very damaging to a growing child’s development if we don’t follow the required precautions while our kids watch them.
If your baby watches cartoons even occasionally, please make sure you follow these expert-recommended precautions. They are critical for his physical as well as emotional health as he grows up.
1. NO Screen Time For Babies Under Two
If your baby is under two years old, it is recommended to limit his screen time to ZERO. As per experts, babies younger than two years old view TV as confusing. It seems like an array of colours, images and sounds that they don’t understand. Television and child development have little connection at this time, so exposing kids of this age to TV content is not a great idea. In fact, TV can actually affect babies of this age negatively, and cause over-stimulation, crankiness, and difficulty in falling asleep.
2. MONITOR Cartoons For Violent Content
A lot of TV content has now become exceedingly violent, and this is true even for cartoons. Many children’s shows are filled with images of violence that may seem harmless and jovial but actually send out very wrong messages. In fact, many children’s shows almost look like animated versions of adult action films!
Warning: Also look out for cartoons that subliminally spread the wrong ideas about racism, skin-colour-led discrimination, gender bias, and sexual content.
As per research, exposure to such content directly increases the risk of aggressive behaviour and also desensitizes your child to violence. Please make sure you select and monitor what your child watches on TV. Check out these expert-approved TV shows for kids that are both entertaining and educational.
3. EXPLAIN To Your Child That Cartoon Characters Are Not Real
No, we don’t mean curtailing your child’s imagination or killing his fantasy world. However, babies and toddlers often find it difficult to differentiate between reality and fantasy. If they see something frightening as part of a TV cartoon, they may tend to believe that it actually exists in the world around them. This can induce fear, restlessness and confusion.
Please talk to your child about this and explain that what he sees on TV is not part of the real world. The cartoon characters are created by artists and do not live inside the TV set. ||
4. PROTECT Your Child’s Eyes From Damage
Over-exposure to cartoons and excessive TV viewing through the day can, unsurprisingly, damage your child’s eyes. The bright visuals and stimulation can put pressure on your child’s gentle eyes and increase risk of problems such as eye strain, sensitivity or short-sightedness.
Make sure your child is sitting at a good distance from the TV set and avoid handing over tablets that require to be stared at for watching. Also keep the lighting of the room adequate and discourage TV watching in the dark. If your child is watching a cartoon program that lasts an hour, make sure he takes a break every few minutes. You can do this by making him look away from the screen, taking a walk around the house, etc.
5. PROTECT Your Child From Cartoon Addiction
Television in general can be addictive, and cartoons so much more so! The fun, musical, animated characters can really light up your kid’s world and make him want to keep watching them for hours. However, getting addicted to cartoons is very unhealthy both for their eyes and for their natural creativity. All the time that goes into TV is time lost for physical activity, family bonding, and finding new ways to keep themselves busy and entertained. Some studies also show that children who watch a lot of television in their early years are at greater risk for childhood obesity and inadequate social development.
Have a rule in place that limit your child’s TV watching every day, and stick to this rule regardless of tantrums. It should in no way be more than 30 minutes – 1 hour a day. As parents, we need to stop falling for the TV-as-a-babysitter trap!
6. WATCH Cartoons With Your Child
This precaution obliterates the idea of using TV as a baby-sitter. The reason many of us allow kids to watch TV is so we have some quiet time to finish our chores, or get rest. However, experts recommend that when possible, we need to watch cartoons along with our child. This will let us monitor the child’s reactions to what he’s seeing. While watching, you can ask questions and discuss what is being shown. If you don’t do this from time to time, the child cannot perceive his parent’s involvement in this activity. You will also miss out on some vital development cues/red flags that you can otherwise spot from your child’s reactions and expressions.
7. TV COMMERCIALS Must Also Be Monitored
It is not just the cartoon content that can contain violent or inappropriate messaging for the baby. A number of TV commercials also present the risk of graphic imagery or age-inappropriate visuals/language. Please regulate the television slot during which your child will be watching cartoons before you let him do so. If you have a set-top box recording option, you can choose to record the show without the commercials.
8. REFUSE To Allow Cartoon Watching In Bed/Bedroom
As a strict rule that allows for no negotiation, do NOT allow your child to stay up late watching cartoons. It has been seen that children who watch television till late at night get over-tired and cranky the next day. So, even when there are guests at home or your baby is being restless, avoid resorting to the TV.
Also, do not permit your child to have a TV in the bedroom or allow him to watch cartoons while in bed. A number of studies have linked TV viewing to sleep disorders!
Note: This rule also applies for meal-times. Do not allow kids to watch cartoons while eating as it can lower their interest in food, cultivate unhealthy eating habits, and also create addiction to TV. If you’re finding this difficult to implement, check out these expert-recommended tips to feed children without turning on the TV.
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Failure to Thrive in Children
Failure to thrive (FTT) in children can be defined as a failure to gain weight. There may be many reasons for it, like socio-economic factors, picky eating, child neglect or abuse, health issues like various diseases or chronic medical conditions, and most importantly, malnutrition. Treatment includes hospitalization (in severe cases), nutritional treatment (increasing protein, carbohydrates, essential nutrient intake), and lots of love and care.
What Does Failure to Thrive (FTT) Mean?
Failure to thrive (FTT) means a baby is not putting on weight as normal. It is a condition when a baby’s growth (height or weight) rate is much slower than the rest of the babies of his age. It is associated with poor developmental and emotional functioning. In this condition, the baby is either not receiving or has an inability to take in or retain adequate nutrients in order to gain weight or grow. If the condition is not taken care of, the child may not be able to do even basic things like sitting, walking, or talking like other children of his age.
It can be chiefly be classified into two types, namely:
Non Organic Failure to Thrive (NOFTT)
It is primarily due to rejection and neglect by the mother or the caregiver of the infant. The condition can prevail in all the social classes, but is more common in situations of poverty, poor marital relationships of the parents, and chaotic family lifestyle.
2. Organic Failure to Thrive (OFTT)
This condition is caused due to some underlying disease or sickness in the child, which interferes with the nutrient intake of the child, like a cleft lip or palate, cerebral palsy, or some genetic disorder that the child may have inherited from his parents.
Should You Be Concerned If Your Child Isn’t Gaining Weight?
A baby losing weight after being sick is normal. He will eventually gain the weight back. If your baby has not lost weight but is slow in gaining weight, it is normal as well. However, if your child has consistently been in a higher growth percentile but of late dropped to a rather low percentile, it should be an alarm for you.
Failure to Thrive Causes
Non-Organic Failure to Thrive occurs in a child who is usually younger than 2 years, and has no known medical condition that causes poor growth. Organic Failure to Thrive happens when there is an underlying medical cause.
Non-Organic Failure to Thrive Causes
No or weak emotional bond between parent and child
Poverty
Inability of parents to understand the diet requirements of their baby
Picky eating by the child
Maternal deprivation
Organic Failure to Thrive Causes
Genetic disorders like Down Syndrome
Hormonal problems
Defects in major organs
Neurological problems or brain damage
Heart or lung problems
Blood disorders like anaemia
Digestive problems
Chronic infections
Low metabolic rate
Low birth weight due to problems during pregnancy
What Are the Signs & Symptoms?
Improper weight gain
Always tired
Lack of age-appropriate social response
Late in motor development
Learning and behavioural problems later when the child grows
Lethargy
Too cranky
Irritability
Diagnosis
Failure to thrive can be accessed through various processes:
Diet history of the child is taken, since that is the most important and potential cause of FTT.
The doctor will conduct a complete physical examination of the child. This will include noting the child’s height, weight, any birth defects, abnormal breathing signs, and signs of any vitamin or essential nutrient deficiencies.
Child’s medical history and family history will also be asked.
The doctor may also check for any kind of physical abuse on the child, or child neglect.
The Denver Developmental Screening Test (especially meant for such cases) will be done on the child to determine delays in development.
Other than these, the following tests are also done:
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Electrolyte balance
Haemoglobin Electrophoresis to determine blood disorders like Sickle Cell Disease
Hormonal tests including thyroid function tests
X-rays to determine bone age
Urine tests
Risk Factors
Here are some factors which increase the risk of FTT:
Poverty: The most important reason behind FTT is poverty. The child may be deprived of vitamins and essential nutrients in his diet, which may lead to various diseases that may result in low weight of the child.
Psychological and social reasons: Apart from that, some children suffer from FTT due to psychological and social reasons.
Inadequate care: Emotional or maternal deprivation equals nutritional deprivation. This happens when the mother or the caregiver fails to meet or neglects the child’s nutritional needs due to her preoccupation with other things. These may include:
Having to take care of others
No knowledge about proper feeding or child’s nutritional needs
Postpartum depression
Alcoholism or substance abuse.
Premature birth: Many times, a child born prematurely may not be able to gain weight just as baby of his age would.
Poor Health: Genetic disorders or illnesses that interfere with feeding and bonding with the parents also play a role in causing failure to thrive in babies.
Treatment for FTT
Most often, a child can be treated for FTT at home itself, under the proper guidance of the doctor. In severe cases, the child may have to be hospitalised. At home, the child has be given a nutritious diet with high calories. In severe cases, when a baby is hospitalised, he may be given food and all the necessary nutrients through a pipe.
A child with NOFTT or mixed FTT will have to be examined by a paediatrician first. She may then refer the child to speech therapists to help the child in swallowing or sucking, psychologists for any behavioural issues, specialists like cardiologists, gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, haematologists, etc. in accordance with the health issues detected in the child.
Apart from all of these, the parents or the caregiver may also be counselled by the doctor, or taught certain things like breastfeeding the baby correctly or the correct amount of food to be given to the child (since some parents may not know it).
Does Low Weight Gain Mean Your Child Will Always Be Smaller Than He Should Be?
This depends on the reason behind his failure to thrive. If FTT is due to a disease that will be with him lifelong, then he may not grow as much as children of his age do. But if it is due to something that can be treated, then his growth may be at par with others. For example, a premature child (one of the reasons for FTT) may gain weight and height after treatment and being fed well.
When Should You Call the Doctor?
Failure to Thrive in infants can be due to an amalgamation of psycho-socio-economic causes, or due to underlying health reasons. Poor weight gain in children is the most prominent factor seen among children having FTT.
Failure to thrive in a child could trigger a number of health hazards, and that is when a doctor should be called for.
Child has breathing problems.
Child faints.
Child loses weight at an alarming rate.
Child is weak and listless.
Child keeps on crying.
Thriving does not only mean getting bigger. It means growing to one’s potential, physically and emotionally. However, the mother’s health must also be taken care of while she is pregnant, so as to avoid pre-term birth, which could lead to Failure to Thrive issues in the child. Moreover, taking care of the socio-economic and psychological issues of a child could also help in averting FTT.
Also Read:
Baby not Gaining Weight
Helping your Premature Baby Gain Weight
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Smart Ways to Answer Questions about your Adopted Child
Adoption can be an equally amazing experience in parenthood, provided you have the courage to face the insensitive and irrelevant questions posed by the people around you. It can be very saddening and disturbing to see your close friends and family attacking you with questions of your adopted child’s identity, when you are expecting a certain kind of warmth and acceptance from them. Let us look at the awkward questions that you might have to face being a parent of an adopted child.
Adopting children that look much different from you calls for innumerable stares from people that can annoy or worry you. However, you must take into consideration that dealing with those stares will be an ongoing process, until you reach a point where you will see yourself handling those questions and stares graciously with a smile.
If we look from the flip-side, it can actually be very reassuring to face the sometimes-irrelevant questions, as it gives you a chance to express your pride and delight in being the parent to the adopted child. Let us now look and understand the probable questions that can be asked to you and how you can answer them smartly.
Awkward Questions That You might have To Face
1. From where did you get this little one?
You will be asked questions about your child’s origin. Your answer stating the country or state/city origin should be substantial to quench people’s curiosity.
2. Isn’t the child lucky to have you as parents?
People will pity the child and talk about how wonderful you are to have adopted the child. But instead, you must express how lucky and blessed you are to have him/her as your child.
3. Do you have children of your own?
People will not leave a chance to remind you that the child is adopted. However, if they hear you claim that the child is your own, your answer would leave them pleasingly satisfied.
4. What do you know about the real parents?
It can be very disturbing to be reminded that you are not the biological parent, unless you make them realize that you are the real parents since you would be bringing up the child.
5. Where did he/she get such beautiful hair/skin?
Your simple answer stating that it is God gifted will leave them astound and if you are lucky enough, the questions would end there.
Regardless of how smartly you answer, people will have endless questions to ask you. Some might do it intentionally to annoy you, or some just might do it to fulfill their curiosity about adoption. The trick to handle the situation then, is to show them that you stay unaffected. Let us look at ways of how you can get through the people’s test:
How To Answer Awkward Questions
1. Never let the smile disappear
The moment people will notice a sign of annoyance or worry on your face; they would know that they have won. So always face them with a smile.
2. Always be on alert
Never give people a chance to ask too many questions, or always have answers prepared for the probable questions.
3. Keep it brief
Never let out too much of information. The more you say, the more questions they will have. Always answer to the point.
4. Show off your child
Never let go of the chance to appreciate and praise your child. Show them that you are a proud parent.
Being accepted as a parent of an adopted child is a challenge. However, parents can compete this challenge successfully with a lot of courage and with a pinch of grace and smile.
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Jowar Puff Porridge Recipe
When a baby reaches the age of 11 months, you start planning for a weaning diet which is tasty as well as healthy. Jowar puff porridge for babies is a perfect weaning recipe that is delicious and filling at the same time. The recipe has a high nutrient value and is rich in carbohydrates, protein, and iron. We have added banana also in this recipe to add a naturally sweet and rich flavour. Peaches and apples are some more alternatives for bananas. Or, you can add some jaggery if you have already introduced it to your little one.
Cooking Time
Type
Time (hh:mm:ss)
Preparation Time
00:05:00
Cook Time
00:05:00
Total Time
00:10:00
Cooking Method: Gas stove
Type of Meal: Vegan
Suitable For: Any baby above 12 months of age
Meal Schedule: Breakfast
Recipe Type: Main Dish
Ingredients:
Ingredients
Quantity and Volume
Jowar puffs (sorghum)
1/4th cup
Ghee
1 tsp
Banana
1
Powdered rice
2 tbsp
Water
2 cups
Jaggery
1 tsp chopped (optional)
Instructions:
We have the following step-by-step procedure to prepare Jowar puff porridge. This simple recipe can be made within ten minutes.
Grind puffed jowar puff to make a fine powder.
Heat ghee in a pan; add the ground jowar puff and sauté on a medium flame for 2 minutes. Stir continuously.
Add the powdered rice and whisk it so that it mixes well.
Now start adding water in small amounts while stirring continuously to ensure there no lumps are formed.
Cook the above mix for a couple of minutes and make sure it is mixed well and cooked properly.
Remove the vessel from the heat and keep it aside.
Mash the banana and add it in the jowar flour mix.
This dish can be sweetened using jaggery for babies over one year. For babies under one year, the natural sweetness of banana will suffice.
If you wish to add some jaggery, here’s the recipe for making jaggery syrup:
Grate a small block of jaggery (about 60 gms) or 3 to 4 tbsp of loose jaggery and put it on a pan.
Add a teaspoon of water to this and let it come to a boil.
Stir until the jaggery melts.
Filter this into a different pan and heat once again till it is slightly thick.
You may add this syrup a few minutes before you take the porridge off the heat. Don’t forget to mix well.
Recipe Tips
This is an easy porridge recipe for babies who have just begun eating solids. Here are some tips for making jowar puff porridge that will help you make sure it is perfect for your munchkin:
You can use milk instead of water. However, cow’s milk should be used only for kids above one year. For the younger ones, you can use formula, breast milk or coconut milk.
It is essential to stir the jowar puff flour constantly and vigorously; else you will end up with lumps that remain raw and tasteless even after cooking the porridge till the end.
Do not overheat the jaggery syrup in the last step as it might turn very thick.
Ensure that the jowar’s raw smell goes away when you are cooking it.
Banana is a good sweetener, so add jaggery only if your child is not happy and wants the porridge a tab bit sweeter.
Serve the porridge lukewarm and do not let it sit for long as it might become lumpy and seem unappetizing to your baby.
For kids under a year, ensure the banana is mashed well with a spoon or a fork. You may also use a blender instead.
If you’ve introduced textures to your baby, you may leave the banana/fruit mash a little lumpy.
You can twist the recipe by omitting banana and jaggery and adding steamed veggies to the jowar puff flour instead. The steamed vegetables can be ground to a consistency that suits your baby’s age, chewing and swallowing capacity.
Nutrition Information (Per 1/2 cup)
Nutrient
Value
Energy
227 cal
Protein
3.4 grams
Carbohydrates
40.1 grams
Fat
5.7 grams
Cholesterol
0
Sodium
2.6 grams
Fibre
3.8 grams
Calcium
15.4 mg
Iron
1.4 mg
Potassium
277 mg
Magnesium
61.6 mg
Phosphorous
69.9 mg
Zinc
0.5 mg
Vit A
92.4 mcg
Vit B1
0.1 mg
Vit B3
1.1 mg
Vit C
5.5 mg
Vit E
0.2 mg
Folic acid
17 mcg
Vit B2
0.1 mg
Health Benefits
A home-made Jowar puff porridge baby food recipe is a great way to ensure your baby gets a healthy dish. Here are some more health benefits of this recipe.
The iron in jowar is excellent for a baby since it helps maintain the level of haemoglobin and prevents anaemia.
The recipe can be made without milk; great for kids who are lactose intolerant.
There is no sugar which is, excellent, and jaggery is just an optional ingredient that can be avoided if your child is happy with the banana.
Buying Guide
Buy organic jowar and jaggery. Organic produce has fewer contaminants, is safer and healthier for your baby.
While purchasing jaggery, search for the dark-coloured version. The colour signifies the jaggery has minimal chemical residue.
Make sure the banana is fully ripe.
We hope you like this simple, healthy, yet delicious recipe. Add it to your child’s diet as another delicious main, and watch your child gulp down every morsel of it happily.
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Drumstick Soup Recipe
What better way to introduce a nutrient-rich ingredient in a bowl than a drumstick soup? Commonly referred to as ‘super plant’, or Moringa Oleifera, the drumstick is a plant species with unique medicinal plant properties that help in preventing and curing different kinds of ailments. Native to India and widely popular in the tropical and sub-tropical Asian and African regions. Used for centuries, the fabulous aroma and flavour of a bowl of drumstick soup boosts immunity and treats mood disorders. As soups are a tasty and wholesome meal for babies, drumstick soup can be safely given to small babies and toddlers as it does not require them to chew and get digested easily. Drumstick Soup for babies is a traditional South Indian dish that will make any mealtime a joy for not only your babies but your entire family.
Cooking Time
Type
Time (hh:mm:ss)
Preparation Time
00:10:00
Cook Time
00:10:00
Total Time
00:20:00
Cooking Method
Gas Stove
Type of Meal
Vegetarian
Suitable For
Any toddlers above 15 months of age
Meal Schedule
Lunch, evening play-time or dinner
Recipe Type
Main Dish
Ingredients
Ingredient
Quantity and Volume
Drumstick
2
Onion (finely chopped)
¼ cup
Garlic
2 cloves
Butter
1 tsp
Cumin Powder
1 tsp
Salt
To taste
Pepper
To taste
Coriander Leaves (finely chopped)
3 tbsp
Instructions
Let’s get to ‘how to make drumstick soup’ in a surprisingly easier and faster way. Here are the step by step directions to prepare delicious drumstick soup.
Trim and chop drumsticks into finger-long pieces and boil them in 2 cups of water until they become soft.
Scoop out the pulp with a spoon and blend it in a mixer until smooth.
Heat butter in a pan and add jeera along with hing. Wait for it to sputter and add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for a minute and add drumstick flesh to mix well. Make a smooth puree in a blender and puree it till smooth.
Take the drumstick stock and puree it in a pan.
Add salt, pepper and cumin powder. As it boils, remove the scum and simmer for 5 more minutes.
Garnish with coriander leaves and serve it at a lukewarm temperature.
Recipe Tips
Make sure you remember the below-mentioned points before you start preparing the healthy and simple drumstick soup recipe for your baby.
Adding salt to water fastens the softening process of drumsticks. Remember to use only clean filtered water for cooking.
You can add vegetables like tomato or potato to it to enhance its taste and nutritional value.
Make sure the drumstick pulp is properly removed to avoid choking the baby with its drumstick fibre.
Washing your hands before cooking for good hygiene and maintaining the health of your child. Only clean utensils should be used for making the drumstick soup.
Nutrition Information (Per 100 Grams)
Nutrient
Value
Energy
81 KCal
Protein
3.1 g
Carbohydrates
10.6 g
Fibre
3.9 g
Fat
2.3 g
Cholesterol
5.9 mg
Sodium
14.2 mg
Health Benefits
This home-made drumstick soup baby food recipe will add variety to your culinary skills and ensure an overall healthy diet for your baby.
As drumsticks are low in calories and carbohydrates, they can be enjoyed in as much as quantity as you want.
Its high fibre content assists in preventing constipation in babies and improves digestive health.
Drumstick is a good source of protein that works towards maintaining skin health, regulating metabolic activities and building antibodies to promote immunity against chronic illnesses in both babies and adults.
As children need proper nutrients for their growth, drumsticks have the essential vitamins and minerals that promote brain development and treats mood swings.
Calcium in drumstick helps in building strong bones, teeth and improving overall stamina and health.
Spices used in this recipe like pepper and jeera are also digestive agents.
The anti-inflammatory properties of the drumstick with its presence of Vitamin C helps in relieving respiratory disorder and congestion in children.
As drumstick has a potent antibiotic agent, it helps to streamline blood circulation.
Giving drumstick soup during winter can keep your baby’s body warm and keep them energetic all day.
Buying Guide
Buying organic vegetables is always advisable as it ensures the best quality.
Look for tender drumsticks that have a greenish and smooth skin. Avoid buying too rigid and hard drumsticks as they are old with hard and dry seeds and can make your soup taste bitter.
Choose a suitable vegetable store that sells locally grown produce that is fresh.
Check the expiry date of the spices selected before buying them.
Avoid pre-cut drumsticks that are available at the super-market as they do not guarantee freshness.
The best way to get a child to eat a vegetable is through a yummy bowl of soup. A cozy bowl of drumstick soup will surely warm up a baby’s heart, fill their belly but also keep them active all day. So, instead of depending on dried instant soup packets that have disguised flavour enhancers and toxic colouring agents, it is always better to serve home-made drumstick soup to your beloved baby. Just remember to gradually increase the quantities and start with a strained soup of drumstick leaves before introducing the pulp to a baby to facilitate their digestive system.
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Explaining Private Parts To Your Toddlers
As a parent, it’s your job and responsibility to ensure that your child develops well physically and emotionally. Part of the job is teaching toddlers about private parts and even sex. This can be a touchy subject but it has to be tackled and with the utmost care.
Children are naturally aware of their bodies and have an innate sense of gender identity from a very young age. How do you lever a situation where your child touches himself and asks questions? There’s no need to shame a child for being curious. Be straight and gentle while explaining private parts. It’s okay to tell your child that they’re private and no one is allowed to touch them.
How To Teach Your Child About Sex And Private Parts?
If you are wondering about how to teach your child about sex and private parts, one thing you need to learn before going further is that it is possible to talk to small children about sex and private parts. most of the time, parents don’t know how to approach the subject, they think they will in fact end up feeding their curiosity instead of making them aware and alert. But this is not true. here are some easy tips on how to teach your child about sex and private parts.
1. Use Real Names
When you begin to teach your child about private parts, it’s absolutely fine to use anatomical terms. Teach him to say names right and without embarrassment.
2. How To Handle ‘Play Time’
You can start with body part activities for toddlers alongside playing doctor-patient. Talk to your child and let him know that his body should be kept covered and private. Set limits without making too much of a fuss. Teach him about different body parts along with respecting the personal space of others.
3. Avoid Details
It’s common for children to ask where babies come from and how they’re made. There’s no need to go into details when they’re really young. However, they should also know about the changes their bodies will go through over time. Kids under 6 years of age are too young to learn about sex, but tweens can be explained about it in more detail.
4. Good Touch And Bad Touch
It’s never too early to tell kids about who should touch them. They have a right to privacy and if anyone touches them inappropriately, they should tell the person to stop it and should be encouraged to tell parents and caregivers about it. They should never have to feel uncomfortable and ashamed about speaking up.
WATCH This Short Film On Child Sexual Abuse
Tips For Talking To Toddlers About Private Parts
While toddlers may not be old enough to understand the concept of sex, it is definitely possible to educate them about ‘good touch bad touch’, and how they can protect and safeguard themselves. Here are a few tips on how to talk to your toddler about private parts.
Tell your child that his body belongs to him. It’s okay to hold hands and hug known people but he has the right to say ‘no’ too.
Teaching toddlers about private parts with the right terms is important. Encourage your child to ask questions.
Make it easy for your child to approach you.
Talking to him while bathing him is a good way to point out and name private parts.
There will be occasions when a doctor has to handle your toddler to give shots. It’s imperative to help him understand what’s happening to avoid any confusion.
Empower your child to say ‘no’, especially when he’s being touched inappropriately.
Help your child trust his instincts to figure out whether a touch is good or bad. Doing role plays will help him learn and stay safe.
Just as your child learns that people should not touch him, teach him to respect the privacy and space of others too. The earlier you start explaining private parts to toddlers, the stronger their instinct to protect themselves will become. It will help him grow strong and assertive as well as help him understand that each person is his own.
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Boiled Aloo And Carrot Chaat Recipe
One thing we should understand is the fact that even babies have taste buds and they like options when it comes to food they consume. It may sometimes be worrisome for a parent when a baby doesn’t eat. There is no need to panic, what you need is to try something different for the fast-developing taste bud of your little ones. Carrots are a great source of vitamins and fiber whereas potatoes are awesome for carbohydrates and hence energy. There is nothing that can go wrong with the culmination of the two most easily available ingredients. How to make Boiled aloo and carrot chaat? Continue reading to ensure a wholesome, sumptuous, ever-so-worthy snack for your delightful little one.
Cooking Time
Type
Time (hh:mm:ss)
Preparation Time
00:05:00
Cook Time
00:07:00
Total Time
00:12:00
Cooking Method: Gas
Type of Meal: Vegetarian
Suitable For: Babies from 18 months onwards
Meal Schedule: Mid-Morning Snack, Lunch or Evening Snack.
Recipe Type: Main Dish
Ingredients
Type
Quantity
Potato (Orange or Red) (Boiled)
1 medium-sized
Carrot (Boiled)
1 medium-sized
French Bean (Boiled)
2 medium-sized
Sev (non- Spicy)
1 spoon(optional)
Chaat Masala
½ pinch
Curd
1 teaspoon
Sweet Tamarind
½ teaspoon
Oil
1 teaspoon
Salt
As per taste
Instructions
Here are step by step directions to make Boiled aloo and carrot chaat for babies:
Clean the potato, carrot and the french bean.
Pressure cook the vegetable for two whistles.
Do not take the pressure out immediately. Let it rest till the pressure is out.
Peel the Potato and cut it into bite-size.
Also chopped the carrot and French bean into a smaller bite-size.
For babies less than 18 months of age you can mash the ingredient
Take a deep bowl, mix the potato, carrot and the French bean.
Heat the oil a non-stick frying pan. Add the mix of potato, carrot and French bean.
Stir fry them until light golden brown.
Transfer the mix into a bowl.
Sprinkle 1/2 pinch salt and 1/2 pinch of chaat masala.
Mix well.
Transfer them into serving bowls or plates.
Pour 1 tablespoon curd over the mix.
Garnish with sev(optional). Boiled Aloo and Carrot Chaat are ready to be served.
Nutrition Information (Per 100 Grams)
Type
Value
Carbohydrates
10.4 g
Calcium
155 mg
Iron
1.55 g
Protein
2.56 g
Dietary fiber
11.6 g
Health Benefits
If you are wondering what is the health benefit of these tasty Boiled aloo and carrot chaat for a baby? Below are some health benefits of Boiled Aloo and Carrot Chaat
Potatoes (Aloo) are a rich source of Carbohydrates, which will provide your baby with the required energy.
Curd contains probiotics that will relieve acute constipation and also help prevent secondary infection and diarrhea. It is also rich in calcium.
Carrots, as well as the French bean, are a good source of fiber which is a requirement for a healthy bowel movement.
The color of the carrot is due to the presence of beta carotene is extremely beneficial for the baby.
Our body converts the beta carotene into vitamin A, which is one of the most important vitamins in our body.
Your baby needs Vitamin A for healthy skin, eye and overall immune system.
The calcium in curd and potassium in a carrot is good for your growing baby’s bones and teeth.
The presence of vitamin A helps in improving vision and also aids cornea protection in babies.
Beta carotene also works as antioxidants that can significantly improve your baby’s immune system and getting rid of toxins.
Buying Guide
There are some things to remember while picking up the ingredient for the simple Boiled aloo and carrot chaat recipe for your baby:
Pick up fresh Potatoes that feel juicy but firm not the ones which feel squishy.
The Carrot needs to be fresh too. If it is fresh you can easily keep it for a long time refrigerated.
Lastly, as far as possible, get organic fruits and vegetables for your loved ones. They are free of any harmful pesticide and insecticides. It may be a little pricey but it is a safer option.
The homemade Boiled aloo and carrot chaat baby food recipe is not at all complicated and can be prepared instantly. The ingredients are easily available and will ensure a wholesome and healthy snack for your babies.
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Your Baby this Week
“Yep, toddler tantrums are real and you know this all too well! Don’t let your kid’s unpredictable behavior keep you from enjoying an occasional meal out. Treat yourself every now and then! Choose a family-friendly restaurant, a place with a kids menu, crayons and paper, and ione that is oud enough to drown out the squeals and squeaks. Bring a few small toys, and snacks (crackers, cubes of cheese, cut-up fruit) to keep your child occupied. These will buy you enough time to enjoy the most out of your meal.
“
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Foods that Kids can Choke on
Growing children have different growing needs. While your child might be eyeing on the servings of different dishes on his plate, they may not be safe for him to eat. Big chunks of fruits or whole nuts may cause choking in kids.
As a parent, you need to know that there are certain foods that may prove to be a choking hazard. Know more about different food items that should be avoided at various age groups.
Age Group: 1-2 Years
The following points will help you in understanding how to prevent choking when your child is 12 to 24 months old.
Avoid giving him food larger than the size of a pea as it may get stuck in his throat and lead to choking. Carrots, celery, and green beans should be sliced into small pieces and cooked until very soft to chew. Similarly, cut fruits into pieces that can be easily eaten by him.
Candies that are hard to bite, chewing gum, nuts and popcorns that may easily get stuck in the throat should be avoided at this age. These are likely to cause infections as well.
Coarse peanut butter and other nut butters are difficult to swallow, and may contain pieces of nuts in them. So you need to be extra careful with them.
Age Group: 2 – 3 Years
As his age progresses, so will his eating habits. Even though he is capable of digesting more complex foods now, it is best to avoid food items that you have been keeping away from him till now. This is because the chances of choking are still high. Apart from this, discourage him from eating while travelling in a car, speaking or laughing while eating, and watching television or doing anything else that may distract him.
Age Group: 3 – 5 Years
Now that he has crossed the age bar of 3, he is a competent eater and is capable of eating a lot more food groups than before. However, you need to be vigilant about his food needs and demands. Let him avoid:
A full hot dog, instead cut it into small pieces.
Hard candies, including jelly beans as they are most likely to get stuck in the throat.
Raw peanut butter, instead spread it on a bread as it makes it more chewable.
Popcorns and nuts
Too spicy food as it may upset his stomach.
Whole grapes, cherry tomatoes. Cut them into halves or small pieces.
Big chunks of meat, potatoes, or raw vegetables and fruits. Again, cut them into smaller pieces before giving him.
During the early years of life, the food pipe of the kid is the size of a straw. Any food item of a considerably larger size would pose a choking hazard. Therefore, adult supervision is required when small kids are eating their meals, while parents need to ensure that the food item is properly cooked and is in a form that does not have the potential to cause a choking hazard.
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Dudh Pohe Recipe
Who doesn’t like to do minimum cooking and get the maximum benefit from a time tested recipe that is sweet and flavourful? Originating from Gujarat and Maharashtra, Dudh Poha is a traditional recipe that is prepared and served on a full-moon night or Sharad Poonam ritual in October. As milk and rice are introduced to babies at an early stage from 7 months onwards, dudh poha is a wholesome choice for mothers. It is easy to chew, digest and is packed with essential nutrients that help in the faster physical growth and mental development of a baby. Dudh Poha for babies is a light and cooling meal that keeps the gut healthy while rejuvenating the body.
Cooking Time
Type
Time (hh:mm:ss)
Preparation Time
00:10:00
Cook Time
00:10:00
Total Time
00:20:00
Cooking Method
Gas Stove
Type of Meal
Vegetarian
Suitable For
Any Toddlers above 20 months of age
Meal Schedule
Breakfast or evening snack
Recipe Type
Main Dish
Ingredients
Ingredient
Quantity and Volume
Rice Flakes
1 cup
Milk (2% or low-fat milk)
500 ml
Brown Sugar or jaggery
¼ cup or less
Nutmeg
A Pinch
Cardamom Powder
1/4 tsp
Almonds
10
Cashew Nuts
10
Raisins
10
Pistachio
8
Instructions
If you’re wondering how to make dudh poha in an instant, just check this recipe that gives step by step directions to prepare the best dudh poha for your baby and the entire family.
First, boil milk in a saucepan and cook it in medium flame.
Add sugar into the milk and stir occasionally so that the sugar dissolves well.
Wash and drain the poha. Soak it in water for some time to soften it and drain the water.
Add nutmeg powder, cardamom, saffron along with nuts to the milk and let it boil for 10 minutes to make the masala milk
Set the milk aside for 10 minutes so that it cools down to room temperature.
Now add the softened poha.
Mix it well so that a thick consistency is visible.
Transfer the dudh poha in a serving bowl and garnish it with slithered almonds, cashews or chopped pistachio.
Serve cold or hot.
Recipe Tips
Make sure you follow this simple dudh pohe recipe for getting the optimum taste and health benefits from this dish.
Remember to soak the poha before. The thin variety of poha tends to disintegrate in the milk so use thick poha.
If raisins are used, add it to the milk while boiling as it soaks the milk and turns plump.
Masala milk can be made in advance and refrigerated.
Use only clean filtered water for washing and soaking the poha.
Wash your hands well before cooking the porridge. Utensils used should also be properly cleaned before using them for cooking or serving any food.
Instead of sugar, honey or jaggery can be used to make this dish.
Nutrition Information (Per 100 Grams)
Nutrient
Value
Calories
375 kCal
Protein
12 g
Carbohydrates
49 g
Fibre
4 g
Fat
15 g
Cholesterol
24 mg
Vitamin A (IU)
395
Calcium
308 mg
Iron
5.3 mg
Saturated fat
5 g
Sugar
21 g
Sodium
120 mg
Potassium
588 mg
Health Benefits
Here are the best-known health benefits of home-made Dudh Poha baby food recipe.
Poha controls blood sugar levels that can be a good option for diabetic patients.
The calcium in the milk helps in the growth of babies’ bones and teeth.
Poha is easily digestible and acts as a good pro-biotic that can be given if your child has an upset stomach
Poha is a good source of healthy carbohydrates which not only keeps the tummy full for a longer duration.
Low in calories, poha can be given to children as a snack dish many times a week without the fear of increasing their weight.
The iron content of the poha is the key element in maintaining high levels of haemoglobin and RBC count.
If you’re a vegetarian then the dry fruits used in this recipe are a great source of protein, iron magnesium, potassium, copper, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc which will sharpen the intellect, provide relief from diseases and strengthens the immune system of all age groups.
Buying Guide
Examine the milk carton to avoid leakage or any tear in the packaging.
As poha can crumble easily, make sure that the poha that you buy is of good quality.
Choose dry fruits that are dry, free from dirt, blemishes or bugs. Buy small sealed packages as anything stored in bulk are more likely to have mold in them.
Buying pasteurized milk is safer than raw milk.
Check the sell-by date of the milk container to ensure what you’re buying is safe.
A warm bowl of rice flakes and milk topped with crunchy nuts keeps a child active and energetic all day. Therefore, instead of buying packaged cereals from the market that have harmful preservatives in them, give your baby a bowl of tasty and creamy Dudh Poha!
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