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Storytelling for Children

Remember your childhood days when you use to snuggle with your parents at bedtime and listen to a story before going off to sleep. This age-old practice is losing its charm in the present day as not only the adults in the family but the children have also become addicted to electronic gadgets. However, the importance of storytelling cannot be undermined as it not only helps shape up creativity in a child, but it also triggers their power of imagination. Here, in the following article, we shall discuss various benefits of storytelling for kids and how you may effectively engage your kids in this fun activity. Video: Storytelling for Kids : Benefits & How to Tell (Plus Games & Activities) What is Storytelling? Narrating a story, your own childhood experience or reading a story from a book is what storytelling is all about. Though it is easier for parents to sit and watch a show on television with their children, the relevance and importance of storytelling cannot be forgotten. There are many advantages of storytelling on the growing children. What are the Benefits of Storytelling for Children? Following are some of the benefits of storytelling for children: Helps The Kids Know About Their Roots And Culture: Narrating stories from your childhood and about the other family members helps your kid to understand family lineage better. The stories of various religious festivals or functions help the child to know about various family traditions. Help Your Kid Learn Good Values: Kids love to emulate their favourite characters and thus by telling them stories which have moral teachings, will help them learn good values. Virtues like honesty, courage, wisdom can be imbibed at a young age with storytelling. Better Listening Skills: Young children have a very limited attention span and get distracted very soon. By engaging them in storytelling, you help them to work on their attention span and hence become more attentive and good listeners. Enhanced Vocabulary: Listening or reading stories help children to know about new words and phrases. This helps them to get a better knowledge and understanding of the language. It is one of the best ways to teach your kids pronunciation of the new words and their apt usage. Helps In Building Better Memory: You may help your kid to build up better memory by asking them to narrate the story after a few days or by asking them about the characters of the story. This will help the kids to memorize things and become more attentive. Helps In Channelizing Imagination Power and Creativity: Listening to a story helps the child to imagine and create the characters, places and the plot. It helps their imagination to run freely and visualize things without a visual medium. Helps In Academics: Storytelling helps the child to understand better, and thus children learn to concentrate and understand about various subjects in the class as well. The monotony of a boring history class may turn into a fun and exciting storytelling experience for a child. Communication Skills: Children love to ask and probe about various things relating to the story, which makes them more comfortable in asking questions or to know about things they did not understand. This ability makes them communicate better and become more confident in striking a conversation. Expands Their Horizons: Stories tell the children about various cultures and traditions of the world. This makes them aware of ethnicities and languages of other countries. Helps Children To Deal With Difficult Situations: When kids face difficult situations the various learning experiences or virtues learned from the stories may help them. What is the Correct Approach for Storytelling Following are some important aspects that tell you about the correct approach to storytelling: Perfect Length: You should not pick up a story which is either too lengthy or too short. Pick up a story which may interest your kid and has a useful message or learning. Cosy Surroundings: Make sure you choose a place or room which has no distractions. A comfortable and cosy place makes the storytelling activity more fun. Apt Introduction: Try and interest your child and give a proper introduction to the story. If it some experiences that you are sharing, make sure you give the proper background for your kid to relate better. Keep The Pace In Mind: It is important to follow the right pace with a loud voice but slow narration. This may help your kid to assimilate better and have an enjoyable storytelling experience. Use Expressions: The use of proper facial expressions and hand gestures may keep your kid engrossed. Make use of sounds and expressions and make storytelling more enjoyable. Engage Your Kid: Children really like it if you involve them in anything that you do and same goes for storytelling. Ask them the questions or their opinions, or you may ask them what did they learn from the various characters or the story? These are some ways that you may use to have interactive storytelling for children. Storytelling Games and Activities for Kids Here we have some exciting and creative games, activities and fun storytelling ideas for kids. These may help your kid to be more creative and imaginative. Storytelling Games: Story Cubes: These story cubes have various images on them. Kids have to weave a story with the images they roll from the cube. It can be played single or in a group. Great way of storytelling for kindergarten and pre-schoolers. Story Cards: These cards have various combinations such as characters, situations, places etc. This exciting idea of storytelling for toddler requires the child to pull out cards from the pack and construct a story with the drawn cards. Building A Story: For this game, random household items can be collected and placed in a basket. The idea is to pull out a certain amount of items and create a story around them. Story Stones: Ideal for picnics, school outings or outdoor fun. Various images can be painted on the stones and kept in a bag. Every participant can be asked to pull out three to four stones and create a story with them. Story Bag: This game involves short storytelling for kids. Pictures or images of characters, places, maps, numbers etc. can be placed in a bag, and the child will be required to build a short story by pulling out any 3-4 pictures from the bag. Storytelling Activity: Complete The Story: A story will be narrated by an elder, and the child will be asked midway to complete the story. Zoom Stories: A child will be asked to narrate a story, and at the mention of word Zoom (by any elder or friend), the child will have to elaborate upon that part of the story. For example, elaborate on characters, place, situation etc. Make Stories Together: Children can be asked to work in groups and construct stories together by sharing their experiences. Stories Involving Role Play: The children can be asked to play roles of various (famous or non-famous) characters and construct a story around those characters. Stories In Brief: Children can be asked to narrate the stories from their favorite book or novel in a minute. Kids are always in the mood for a good story. Now that you’ve gone through this article, it shouldn’t be long before you become a master story-teller. Also Read:  Bedtime Stories for Kids Ramayana stories for Children Bedtime Princess Stories for Kids Read more

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As ‘Zindagi Unlocks', Kids May Be at a Higher Risk of Contracting Hepatitis A: Be Prepared, and Vaccinate Them on Time

The pandemic has left children stuck at home for long, finding enjoyment only in e-learning, playing video games, using mobile phones and watching TV. There has been little opportunity for them to interact and play with friends outdoors. But life is gradually opening again, unlocking again. It’s a joyous time for kids especially as they are stepping out more now and indulging in activities important for their growth and well-being. While it’s wonderful to get back to life as we knew it, it’s extremely important for parents to keep an eye out for not just their safety from COVID-19 but also from other life-threatening diseases. Going out for kids will also mean indulging in their favourite outside food. But this also means that there is an increased risk of food and water-borne diseases. One such disease is jaundice, commonly caused by the Hepatitis A virus, one that needs urgent attention. Watch this video to know why. What Is Hepatitis A? Hepatitis A is a contagious liver infection that is caused by the Hepatitis A virus1. Its severity can range from a mild to severe illness which can last from a few weeks to months. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that globally more than 10 crore people get infected with Hepatitis A every year2. While this liver infection is generally considered mild and common among children, it can be serious in some cases3. Among older children and adults, infection usually causes more severe symptoms, jaundice being one of them occurring in more than 70% of cases4. Hepatitis A infections do not cause chronic infections; however, they can be severe5. If left unchecked, in some cases, it can lead to severe complications like acute liver failure and even death in rare cases. Outbreaks occur worldwide, especially in areas with poor sanitation6. Therefore children, who are not previously exposed to this virus because of living in more hygienic urban areas may evade Hepatitis A infection in early childhood leaving them at risk of severe infection in adolescence and adulthood.7 How Does It Spread? Hepatitis A spreads through ingestion of water and food contaminated with the Hepatitis A virus. It is primarily transmitted from person to person by the faecal-oral route or when someone ingests contaminated water, or foods that have not been prepared, stored or served in a hygienic manner1. Watch Out for These Signs and Symptoms Not everyone who is infected has symptoms. Symptoms (if developed) usually appear within 2 to 6 weeks after infection1. They can include: Fever Vomiting Grey-coloured stools Fatigue Abdominal pain Joint pain Loss of appetite Nausea Jaundice Remember, not everyone who is infected will show all the symptoms. In few cases, symptoms can last for as long as 6 months.1 Can It Be Prevented? Yes, Hepatitis A infection can be prevented. The easiest ways to protect against hepatitis A are by1,2. Drinking clean water and cooking food well. Additionally, it is advisable to avoid raw meat and shellfish, and wash fruits and vegetables in clean water. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the toilet, changing a baby’s nappy and before cooking food and eating. Ensuring a hygienic environment in and around your home. Vaccination. This helps to protect your child against Hepatitis A. Treatment for Hepatitis A There is no specific treatment for Hepatitis A and hence it is wise to prevent the disease by taking preventive measures. Vaccination is a reliable way to prevent Hepatitis A1-2. When Can Hepatitis A Vaccination Be Given? Vaccination against Hepatitis A can be given to children aged one year and above. Therefore, global and national health authorities like WHO and the Indian Academy of Pediatrics recommend Hepatitis A vaccination to all eligible children 2,7. Consult Your Pediatrician for More Information With this much-needed awareness around Hepatitis A, parents should seek the help of their doctors regarding prevention through vaccination to protect their kids. As ‘Zindagi unlocks’, collective awareness, getting the right guidance, following precautions and health measures like vaccination, can keep children healthy and disease-free. References: https://www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/Hepatitis A/afaq.html, Accessed on 24 th July 2021 https://www.who.int/immunization/position_papers/PP_hep_A_july2012_summary.pdf, Accessed on 24th July 2021 Castaneda D, Gonzalez AJ, Alomari M, Tandon K, Zervos XB. From hepatitis A to E: A critical review of viral hepatitis. World J Gastroenterol. 2021;27(16):1691-1715 https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/pinkbook/hepa.html, Accessed on 24th July 2021 https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-a, Accessed on 24th July 2021 https://www.iamat.org /country/india/risk/hepatitis-a, Accessed on 24th July 2021 IAP-GUIDE-BOOK-ON-IMMUNIZATION-18-19.pdf (iapindia.org), Accessed on 29th July 2021 Disclaimer: Issued in public interest by GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited. Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai 400 030, India. Information appearing in this material is for general awareness only. Nothing contained in this material constitutes medical advice. Please consult your physician for medical queries, if any, or any question or concern you may have regarding your condition. Please consult your Pediatrician for the complete list of Vaccine-preventable diseases and the complete vaccination schedule for each disease. Please report adverse events with any GSK product to the company at india.pharmacovigilance@gsk.com. This article has been produced on behalf of GSK by Times Internet’s Spotlight team. CL NO– NP-IN-HAV-PINF-210001, DOP- October, 2021 Read more

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Ragi Oats Banana Pancake Recipe

Searching for a recipe which is delicious and supremely healthy too? Here come, Ragi Oats Banana pancakes for your little one! These pancakes are easy to prepare and will provide complete nourishment to your child. The fantastic combination of ragi and oats avoids the use of all-purpose flour and wheat flour for making pancakes. We have to keep in mind that this recipe is only for kids. Hence, we have avoided the use of baking powder and baking soda. Also, this recipe keeps away from using artificial sweeteners to make the pancakes sweet. Instead, banana is used to provide fluff and sweetness. Pondering on how to make ragi oats banana pancakes? Let’s get started: Cooking Time  Type Time (hh:mm:ss) Preparation Time 00:30:00 Cook Time 00:15:00 Total Time 00:45:00 Cooking Method: Gas Stove Type of Meal Vegetarian Suitable For  Toddlers above 19 months of age Meal Schedule  Breakfast or Mid-Morning Snack or Lunch or Evening Snack or Dinner Recipe Type:  Main Dish Ingredients Ingredient Quantity Rolled Oats ½ cup Ragi Flour ½ cup Banana (ripe, mashed) 1 in number Buttermilk 2 cups Ghee For cooking Instructions Following are the step by step instructions to prepare delectable pancakes for your kid: Peel and mash a banana by a fork in a bowl. Take another big bowl and sieve ragi flour into it. Add rolled oats and mashed banana into the bowl. Mix everything very well. Add buttermilk to the mixture to prepare the batter for pancakes. Keep the batter aside for 20 minutes. Take a non-stick pan and keep it on medium flame. Add ghee to the pan. Take a ladle full of pancake batter and put it on the pan. Do not spread it over the pan else the pancake will become thin. Pancakes should be a little thick. Cover the pancake with a lid and let it cook for 2 minutes. Flip the pancake to cook the other side as well. The pancake is ready to eat. To make it even healthier, prepare homemade date syrup. Drizzle it over the pancake and let your kid relish it! Recipe Tips Follow the below steps to enhance the taste of this easy ragi oats banana pancake recipe and make perfect pancakes for your little munchkin: It is advised that you do not add baking powder and baking soda to this recipe. This might be harmful to the kid and may cause indigestion. Wash your hands and the utensils used in this recipe carefully before starting to prepare this recipe. Nutrition Information (Per 100 Grams) Type Quantity Energy 184 kCal Carbohydrates 33 g Protein 6 g Fat 3 g Dietary Fiber 2 g Vitamin C 2.5 mg Iron 1.4 mg Calcium 80 mg Potassium 306 mg Sodium 349 mg Health Benefits Now note down the health benefits of ragi oats banana pancake for toddlers: This recipe work wonders on kids. The recipe is rich in nutrient content. It is filled with calcium and protein. These two are responsible for the development of bones and teeth in growing children. The high potassium content of this recipe keeps the child hydrated, boosts immunity and improves metabolism. This recipe is delicious and an energy booster at the same time. The high carbohydrate content keeps the child full for long. The recipe is known to improve digestion and helps in regulating bowel movement issues in kids. The recipe also has a good quantity of iron in it. This keeps a check on haemoglobin level of your kid. The recipe is also known to promote sleep because ragi acts as a natural relaxant. Buying Guide Make a note of following points and buy correct ingredients for this recipe Homemade Ragi oats banana pancake: Buy bananas from organic stores. Organic ingredients are a product of safer ways of farming, which in turn helps to avoid ingestion of harmful chemicals by your kid. Only buy ripe bananas for this recipe. It will not be easy to mash the banana, and natural sweetness of this recipe will vanish. Prepare buttermilk used in this recipe at home. Store-bought buttermilk is not good for your child as it contains preservatives. This recipe is wonderful for your growing child. It is highly recommended to try this recipe at home and serve a plate full of nutrition in a single dish! Read more

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A Healthy Eating Guide for Toddlers

Make your toddler eat healthy food by involving him in the grocery shopping, working together on the presentation of the food, cutting interesting shapes and sizes, and adding colourful vegetables to his meals. When it comes to eating with your toddler, it is all about catering to his whims rather than healthy eating. Eating well is important for your growing baby as it helps him gain energy, maintain a healthy weight, and inculcate good eating habits. If your toddler has been fussy about eating food properly, then you should find new and innovative ways to feed him healthy meals. Make Your Toddler’s Food More Appealing Make your toddler’s nutritious food visually appealing by garnishing it well. You can bundle long sticks of veggies, such as carrots, red and yellow peppers, wrap them together and tie them with a strip of green onion. Your toddler would not be able to ignore such a vibrant and unique presentation. Play with colour components of the food. Make use of peppers, beetroot, beans and tomatoes to draw the attention of your toddler. Consider adding varying shapes to food by using different grains, beans and seeds to make it look more inviting. Don’t just put the food on the plate, arrange the plate attractively and give a final touch of your presentation. Involve Your Toddler Develop your toddler’s interest in eating healthy foods by taking him to the grocery store with you. Tell him the advantages of every vegetable you pick up from the shop to make him aware of its nutritional value. Ask him to read out the grocery list for you as you shop, and do ask for his opinion about fruits or vegetables he would prefer to eat. Consider buying a new fruit or vegetable every week to teach your toddler to add new components in his regular menu. Fun and Health Combo for Toddlers Ask your toddler to help you put toppings on a pizza. Make your mealtime more fun by arranging veggies like carrot sticks, tomatoes, and bell peppers such that they look like a face on the plate. You can also make pancakes in the shape of your toddler’s initials or you can cut the cakes, sandwiches, etc. in heart shape. Select Juices Wisely If your toddler is picky about eating fruits, then fresh juices are the best way to balance your toddler’s daily fruit intake. Be sure about the quantity and the kind of fruit juice you offer him. If he does not drink milk, try a juice fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Avoid buying juices that offer only 10 per cent of fruit concentrate and fill the rest of the carton with flavourings and sweeteners. Play Positive Be a role model for your toddler and make positive comments about the food you are eating. When you say things such as ‘these are so tasty!’ to your toddler, he may be more willing to try them. So get your little one to eat new food items rich in essential vitamins and minerals, for ideal development, with these handy tips. Meal Planner Table Breakfast 9:00 am 1 cup oats porridge with dates and walnut puree and 1 boiled egg OR oats cooked in milk with dates and walnut puree with strawberries 1 cup fruity rice kheer 1 veg and dal cutlet or 1 fish cutlet 1 carrot paratha with ghee 1 Soft, thick Mix pulse Dosa with 1/2 katori veg (Onion, Red Pumpkin) Sambar OR 1 egg omelette 1 cup Oat – Millet porridge with leafy vegetable 1 cup rice porridge cooked in milk with cut mango pieces Mid-morning snack 11:00 am 1 cup pineapple yoghurt / shrikhand 1 orange 1/2 glass Berry Smoothie (raspbery, blueberry) 1/2 glass banana milkshake 1 cup fig flavoured yoghurt 1 cup orange juice 1 glass banana and chickoo smoothie Lunch 1:00 pm 1 cup beetroot risotto with parmesan cheese 1 chapati dipped in methi dal or 1 chapati with mild fish curry 1 cup rice and masoor dal vegetable curry with ghee OR 1 cup rice with boneless chicken with onion-tomato curry (mildly spicy) 1 cup rice with peas curry OR 1 cup rice with pomfret curry 1 cup Curd-Coriander rice 1 beet root paratha 1 phulka with well cooked (and coarsely mashed) rajma in tomato-onion gravy or butter chicken Evening Snack 6:00 pm 1 bowl spinach potato soup 1 bowl beetroot soup 1 bowl Corn soup 1 bowl Tomato-Onion soup 1 cup Veggie mash (bottlegourd, Corn, Carrot) 1 cup sweet corn soup 1 bowl peas and ajwain soup Dinner 8:00 pm 1 roti blended with milk and mango and honey or jaggery 1 Cup Red risotto with tomato and basil 1 peas parantha with red masoor dal (non-spicy) 1 cup Puffed Rice-pulse gruel 1 blended veg idli with tomato chutney Lemon pasta with peas 1 cup rice kheer with cut fruits   Read more

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Pear Date Milkshake Recipe

Fruits must be an integral part of your toddler’s meal. Fruits give the necessary nutrients that your toddlers growing body needs for overall well-rounded growth. Milkshakes are a great way to combine the goodness of fruits and milk and this Pear Date Milkshake for babies is an excellent addition to your toddler’s diet chart. Cooking Time Type Time (hh:mm:ss) Preparation Time 00:10:00 Cook Time 00:10:00 Total Time 00:20:00 Cooking Method Blender or Mixer Jar Type of Meal Vegetarian Suitable For Any Toddlers above 19 months of age Meal Schedule Breakfast, Mid Morning or Evening. Recipe Type Snacks, desserts Ingredients Type  Quantity  Pear finely chopped ( preferably peel the skin) 1/2 cup Dates finely chopped 1/4 cup Milk 1 cup Instructions Keep reading to know how to make Pear Date Milkshake, and follow this simple step-by-step instruction to get a perfect consistency. Wash the pear and peel the skin. Chop the pear into pieces and empty them into the blender. De-seed the dates if they are seeded and chop them into tiny pieces. Now add the chopped dates into the blender jar along with the pear. Give a quick whip and let the pear and dates combine well. Add the milk little by little and keep whipping it continuously. Once you find the pear and dates have blended well with the milk, you can empty the milkshake into a jug. Pour in glasses and serve. Recipe Tips Now that you don’t need any added flavours to include in your baby’s milk, all you need to do is follow these tips to get the perfect homemade Pear Date Milkshake baby food recipe: Rinse the pear before peeling and chopping them. Make sure you de-seed the dates before you add them to the blender. Even if you buy dates without seeds, a few of them may contain seeds. Boil the milk before you add it to the milkshake. Always use cold milk when whipping in the blender as hot milk may cause the mixture to come out of the jar. You need not add any sugar to the mixture as the natural sugar in the pear and dates will suffice to make the milkshake sweet. Nutrition Information (Per 100 Grams) Type  Value  Calories 121 kCal Carbohydrates 31 gm Protein 15 gm Fat 0.27 gm Fibre 5.7 gm Sugar 21 gm Health Benefits This easy Pear Date Milkshake recipe is not just a milkshake but a drink packed with loads of nutrients and benefits: Pears help regulate breathing problems as they melt the phlegm. Pears are rich sources of fibre, and Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to build immunity against cold and flu symptoms. It is also useful to strengthen muscles, bones, teeth and blood vessels. Pears are rich in fibre and aid in easy bowel movements. Dates are rich in antioxidants, fibre, calcium and magnesium. The calcium and magnesium in dates help in the healthy development of bones. Dates given in moderate quantity is good for the teeth. Dates are full of fibre and help indigestion. Milk is also packed with calcium and needed for the healthy development of teeth and bones. Buying Guide There are a few things to bear in mind while sourcing ingredients for this recipe: Make sure you buy pears that are just ripe. If you find that the pears are a bit raw, then let them ripen for a day. Try to buy organic pears. Organic fruits are free from chemicals and pesticides. Buy dates in packaged form. Buy seeded dates and de-seed them before using it. Make sure you check the expiry date on the packaging to make sure they are within their perishable date. Buy full-fat milk as kids will benefit only from full-fat milk. Milkshakes are a healthy option for kids of all ages. Kids love the slightly thick consistency and find it easy to finish. There is not much chewing involved as kids with developing teeth prefer food that is easy to swallow. Milkshakes are a perfect substitute for toddlers who are fussy eaters. Serve this Pear Date Milkshake in between meals or even for breakfast. With its combination of milk, whole fruit and dried fruit, it makes a great dish to serve to your baby. It is a must on your toddler’s diet chart. Read more

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Capricorn Child Traits & Personality

Every sun sign has a set of personality traits. If you are fascinated by astrology and often seek guidance through this medium, why limit it only to grown-ups? Imagine how easy it would be to deal with babies if you knew their personality traits. The trick to gauge your child’s personality can make it easy to deal with unwanted situations or avoid them altogether! Don’t be fooled by the slightly ferocious stature of the horned goat that represents this sun sign; Capricorns are known for being extremely grounded, sensitive and, at the same time, confident and intelligent. Read on to learn some more personality traits of Capricorn babies. If you are a parent expecting a Capricorn baby, you must know all the  Capricorn child traits; you may want to start preparing for their arrival by creating a structured environment and setting clear boundaries. Capricorns thrive in organised and predictable environments, so having a routine can help your baby feel secure and supported. What Are the Birth Dates of Capricorn Baby? Capricorn babies are born between December 22nd and January 19th. These babies are known for their determination, practicality, and ambition. They naturally can focus on their goals and work hard to achieve them, even from a young age. Capricorns are often described as being wise beyond their years and tend to be very responsible and dependable. When it comes to parenting a Capricorn, it is important to encourage their natural curiosity and desire to learn. Personality Traits of a Capricorn Child Curiosity killed the cat, but not a Capricorn child! That’s because Capricorn babies are curious by nature and intelligent too. Here are some more Capricorn child traits your baby will most likely possess. 1. She/He Is Excellent at Adapting A Capricorn child will adapt to most situations you’d think he wouldn’t like. That’s a great quality because they might just take some pressure off of you by adapting to the most difficult things. You will probably have no trouble weaning them on to solid foods or getting them used to certain foods at all. Table manners, potty training, and everything else will seem like a piece of cake if you have a Capricorn child. Likewise, schooling, homework and building good habits also won’t be any trouble for you. Of course, children being themselves, they won’t accept everything at the first go, but a Capricorn child’s personality is such that they will adapt to anything new in no time at all! 2. They Are Often Mistaken As the Underdogs Capricorn babies can surprise everyone by accomplishing something that was thought to be out of their league. That’s because they never give up. They find it easy to be persistent and often chase their goals until they achieve it. What interests them is always close to them, and they are quite stubborn about it too. So, no compromises there. They are not preachers per se, but they do stick to their principles and seldom go against them. This brings us to another trait a Capricorn child usually has. 3. She/He Is Ambitious The never-give-up attitude that Capricorn babies have makes them very ambitious, especially if it concerns their favourite things or their closest dreams. It will be very difficult for you to divert them or change their mind. Also, only the closest of people will know what they are ambitious about. Their persistence and focus, as mentioned early, can help them go to any limits to achieve their goals. 4. She/He Is an Old Soul The reason why a Capricorn child is considered an old soul is because she/he is often quiet, throws no tantrums and comes across as a mature and well-behaved child. The tiny tots belonging to this sun sign can be complete angels when it comes to changing diapers, feeding and even while training them during their growth years. Their calm nature will put anyone at ease. Also, when life throws something unpredictable at them, they are the first ones to accept and adapt. 5. They Are Perfectionists Children belonging to this sun sign like keeping their things perfect. Their homework will always be done, their books will be well maintained, their handwriting will be perfect, and if they are old enough, their rooms will also be clean and uncluttered. Are you tempted to take advantage of this situation? Well, make sure you do it smartly, or even better, not do it all, because a Capricorn child can also smell your intentions! 6. She/He Is Quite Predictable Once you know how your Capricorn child deals with certain things, it will become quite easy for you to predict his/her next move. This will ring true for those parents who have won their child’s trust and confidence. Otherwise, it is challenging to gauge what’s going on in their heads. 7. They Are Attention Seekers Just like every other child, Capricorn babies want to be loved too. They are often perceived as being needy and would do anything to grab your attention. If your personalities do not match, it can be quite difficult to give the time they demand. Thus, setting expectations about how much attention is enough will take some time and effort. 8. They Are Quite Self-Sufficient If you have a Capricorn child, you will thank your stars one day, because as much as a Capricorn child is adaptable, she/he is quite self-sufficient too. Of course, no child learns to be self-sufficient in the womb; you will have to teach them slowly and steadily. But, with a Capricorn child, you’ll be surprised by how quickly your child picks up certain things. Teach them to make their own bed, do their homework, sort their toys and keep them away after playing or even how to make a sandwich; they will pick it up and will require very few reminders. 9. She/He Can Come Across As a Loner A Capricorn child doesn’t make contact with strangers easily. She/he will be seen doing things all by herself/himself. Because of this trait, a Capricorn child can come across as a loner. They would have to be encouraged to join group activities, and they can be great friends too, but only with the people they trust. If you want them to open their hearts, you really have to win their trust. A Capricorn child often comes across as shy and timid, but that’s not how she/he is on the inside. You’d see them avoiding every noisy gathering or event, or staying in a corner all by themselves because, by nature, they love quiet and peace. 10. They Make for Good Leaders Personality traits like sensitivity, intelligence, curiosity, self-sufficiency and adaptability can help Capricorn babies become great leaders. They can also become good advisers and manage tricky situations. Your child may have these qualities very early in life and begin demonstrating them at school. She/he could nominate himself and perform exceptionally as the monitor or a group leader. 11. They Are Extremely Responsible Capricorn babies exhibit a remarkable sense of responsibility, which is unusual for their age. They have an innate understanding of the importance of keeping their word, following through on commitments, and taking responsibility for their actions. As infants, they may exhibit a sense of responsibility that can surprise their parents and caregivers. As parents, nurturing and encouraging these traits can help your Capricorn baby reach their full potential and become the remarkable individual they are meant to be. 12. They Are Wiser for Their Age Capricorn babies are naturally wise beyond their years. They have an innate understanding of the world and a mature outlook that can seem unusual for their age. As babies, they may display an uncharacteristic level of awareness, insight, and understanding, which can be both charming and impressive. They thirst for knowledge, which fuels their intellectual development and helps them excel in school and beyond. Tips on Raising a Capricorn Child Now that you have understood the personality traits that most Capricorn babies posses, here are some tips that will help you raise a Capricorn child. Appreciate and praise them only for the right things they do. They are attention seekers and can tend to be self-absorbed too. Its always better to train them to be okay when there’s nobody to give them the attention they crave. Their introvert nature could affect their self-esteem. As a parent, you need to help build your Capricorn child’s confidence, which will help them immensely in their life. Although Capricorns are independent and self-sufficient by nature, parental guidance is much required to tell them the difference between good and bad. Always ensure you encourage them to do the right thing. Be sensitive towards the dreams and goals of a Capricorn child as they are very close to his/her heart. Fuel their intelligence. Give them tasks that make them think and find a solution. This will increase their confidence and help them become independent early on. Encourage them to lead because a large part of their personality makes them want to stay alone. It might take some time for them to understand that a true leader walks with the team and never alone. Playtime Tips for Capricorn Child Capricorn children are known for their practicality, determination, and ambition, which can make playtime a unique experience. Here are five playtime tips for Capricorn children that can help them learn, grow, and have fun: Encourage Creative Play: Capricorn children may have a natural tendency towards structure and routine, but it’s important to encourage them to engage in creative play. This could involve drawing, painting, or building with blocks. These activities can help your Capricorn child tap into their imagination, positively affecting their cognitive development and creativity. Provide Learning Opportunities: Capricorn children have a natural thirst for knowledge, so providing them with learning opportunities during playtime can be a great way to keep them engaged and interested. For example, you could introduce them to educational toys and games that help them learn about numbers, letters, and other basic concepts. Set Goals: Capricorn children respond very well to structure and goal-setting. Consider setting small goals for your child during playtime, such as building a tower of blocks or completing a puzzle within a set timeframe. This can help them learn the value of hard work and persistence while encouraging them to take pride in their accomplishments. Play Cooperative Games: Capricorn children tend to be naturally competitive, but it’s important also to teach them the value of cooperation. Playing cooperative games, such as building a fort or playing a team-based board game, can help your Capricorn child learn how to work together with others towards a common goal. Provide Outdoor Activities: Capricorn children may benefit from spending time outdoors and engaging in physical activities. Consider taking your child on nature walks, playing outdoor sports, or riding a family bike. These types of activities can help your child develop their physical skills, while also promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. Needless to say, playtime can be a unique experience for not only Capricorn but all children. Encouraging creative play, providing learning opportunities, setting goals, playing cooperative games, and engaging in outdoor activities are all great ways to help your Capricorn child learn, grow, and have fun. By following these tips, you can help your child reach their zenith. Baby Names for Capricorn Child Here is a list of some popular names for your Capricorn baby, have a look at them: Capricorn Girls Names Here are five name suggestions for Capricorn baby girls, along with their meanings and origins: 1. Aria  This lovely name has Italian roots and means “air” or “song.” It’s a perfect choice for a Capricorn baby girl, as it symbolizes the free-spiritedness and creativity that often characterizes those born under this sign. 2. Lyra  This unique name has Greek origins and means “lyre,” the ancient musical instrument associated with the Greek god Apollo. In astrology, the constellation Lyra is said to be ruled by the planet Saturn, which is also the ruling planet of Capricorn. 3. Imogen  This charming name has Celtic origins and means “maiden” or “innocent.” It’s a fitting choice for a Capricorn baby girl, as it embodies the purity and determination often associated with this sign. 4. Isla  This Scottish name means “island,” and is a popular choice for parents seeking a unique and lovely name for their baby girl. It’s a great choice for a Capricorn baby, as it evokes the sense of solitude and self-reliance often associated with this sign. 5. Elara  This beautiful name has Greek origins and means “bright” or “shining.” In mythology, Elara was a lover of the god Zeus and the mother of his son Tityos. It’s a perfect choice for a Capricorn baby girl, as it symbolizes the strength and radiance often associated with this sign. Capricorn Boy Names Here are six unique baby names for Capricorn boys, complete with their meanings and origins: 1. Atlas  This Greek name means “bearer of the heavens” or “enduring” and would be a strong choice for a Capricorn boy who embodies the sign’s determination and resilience.  2. Darian This name comes from the Persian word “dar”, meaning “wealthy” or “rich,” and could reflect the financial acumen often associated with Capricorns.  3. Eamon  This Irish name means “guardian” or “protector,” and could represent the Capricorn’s responsible and dependable nature. 4. Ivo This name has Germanic roots and means “archer” or “yew wood,” a symbol of strength and endurance. As a Capricorn name, Ivo could embody the sign’s determination to achieve their goals. 5. Leif  This Scandinavian name means “heir” or “descendant,” and could reflect the Capricorn’s interest in legacy and tradition. 6. Orion This name comes from Greek mythology and refers to a giant hunter. As a Capricorn name, Orion could represent the “sign’s ambition” and “drive to achieve greatness”. These traits are some of the most common traits observed in Capricorn kids. Many children belonging to this earth sign do not show similar personalities. Nonetheless, this article should help you identify some traits that your Capricorn child has and even deal with them. Read more

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Yoga Poses for Toddlers and Preschoolers

Yoga has been becoming increasingly popular amongst people of all age groups around the world. This therapeutic, calming, and relaxing form of exercise is great for young kids or toddlers too. Introducing yoga poses for preschoolers is a wonderful way to support their physical development, emotional well-being, and growing imagination. Through simple poses, children can improve their balance, flexibility, and focus, all while having fun. Toddler yoga isn’t about perfect posture; it’s about movement and making space for calm in their busy, curious lives. If you are looking for thorough insight into yoga for 2-year-olds, why it is beneficial for your child, when should your kiddo start doing it, tips and what are the best yoga poses, read the following post! When Should a Child Start Doing Yoga With You? Where other forms of exercise usually focus only on the physical aspect, yoga is something that not only offers umpteen physical benefits but is also great for the mental and spiritual aspects of the body. There is no rigid timeframe about when your child should begin practising yoga. Toddlerhood holds great significance in a child’s life as this is the transitioning phase from infancy to childhood and toddlers are becoming more aware of their bodies. This is the time when their inquisitiveness is increasing exponentially and they are also mastering various other skills too. Therefore, this can be the right time to teach something as valuable as yoga which has great physical and emotional benefits for your child. It is great to start something so beneficial early in life so that kids can keep reaping its benefits throughout their lives. Benefits of Yoga for Toddlers and Preschoolers The present generation, including toddlers, has developed an increased dependence on various kinds of electronics. This over-dependence on electronics takes a toll on the health of kids and involving young minds in activities such as yoga for little kids, helps them in channelling their energy in positive and ways. It also works well as an emotional regulation tool. Undoubtedly, one of the best indoor activities for growing kids, yoga, has umpteen health and wellness benefits for young kids. Regular yoga practice is great for building flexibility and strength in toddlers. It is also beneficial for increasing better coordination, body balance, and awareness in young growing minds (1). Yoga works as a great social activity, as it is a great way of teaching your little one about following instructions, developing confidence and trying new things by imitating others. Again, yoga is also a great physical activity in developing motor skills in young kids (2). Tips for Practising Yoga With Toddlers and Preschoolers Teaching anything to young kids can be exciting and challenging at the same time but at this age, kids are bubbling with so much energy that it will be a fun and exciting experience when it comes to teaching yoga to toddlers. Here are some tips for practising yoga with toddlers: 1. Be Flexible With Time Kids love to do things at their own pace and if your munchkin wishes to take his own sweet time to do a particular pose, let him be! You may be surprised to see that he may stay in a pose much longer than you. 2. Be Easy With the Structure When it comes to kids, they may want to do it their own way. And if you are planning on following a rigid or fixed structure, may not happen sometimes. This means that if you are planning to do 8 to 10 poses in a stipulated timeframe or particular sequence, well, that may be difficult to achieve with young kids in the picture. However, this should not dampen your spirit as it would eventually affect your kiddo’s zeal too. Maintain your calm and peace and go with the flow! 3. Make it More Fun Share something funny, act funny, or do something that amuses your child, as you practice yoga! Well, the basic idea behind this is to make yoga fun and exciting for the child. If your kid finds it a thrilling experience, there is a strong likelihood that he may continue doing it for the rest of his life. So, remember that you are creating happy and fulfilling memories, which will stay with your child for the years to come. 4. Do Not Worry About Mastering the Pose The yoga activities for toddlers can not be about doing everything perfectly and the same goes for mastering the pose. We know you want your kiddo to master the correct pose but you cannot expect that to happen it in a span of few days only. Give it time and, soon, your kid may just practice the yoga poses perfectly. Also, being too rigid about perfecting the pose can be a complete put off for the young kids and they may no longer find it fun! 5. Try Using Props You can make use of some fun props to make yoga sessions more entertaining for your little one. You can use some stuffed animals, balls, and other such toys to make yoga asanas exciting. It is all about increasing the fun quotient of the activity that you wish to engage your child in and what better than including some fun props into it. 6. Practice Yoga With Your Kids One of the most essential aspects of inculcating good habits is by being a role model for your child. If you practice what you preach, your kid is more likely to pick that habit with more ease. Place your yoga mat next to your kiddo’s mat and ask him to follow your instructions or that of the instructors if you have enrolled for a yoga class. 7. Control Your Expectations You got yourself and your munchkin matching yoga mats and other gears to make the yoga class more fun and exciting and all your kid does is running around as you try to master the poses. Well, do not have any high expectations from toddlers, and let’s face it they aren’t grown-up kids and are still trying to figure out many things around them. Just let your kiddo be and, slowly, he will start enjoying practising yoga with you. We often undermine but kids learn a great deal by observing, which means even when he is quietly sitting on his yoga mat or running around in the room, he is observing a lot! 8. Play Good Music Music stirs our souls and has calming and relaxing effects too. This can be felt by toddlers too. You can play some child-appropriate music or simply play some meditation music as you practice yoga poses with your kid. 9. Use Simple Yet Engaging Language You cannot simply expect your kid to follow you as you practice poses rather you need to give instructions and guide your kiddo all through the session. Make your instructions fairly simple yet engaging so that your kiddo is engrossed in the activity. Modulating your voice is also a great tool for adding that fun element to the session. Use various sounds such as making out animal sounds while doing animal yoga poses. 10. Follow a Routine Setting a routine is a great way of creating healthy habits in young kids. This means practising yoga on a regular basis will help your kiddo yield fruitful physical and mental benefits. Therefore, make yoga a part of your child’s life. Best Yoga Poses for Toddlers and Preschoolers Here are some best yoga poses for toddlers: 1. The Cobra Pose This pose of yoga can help in strengthening the back and abs of the young kids (3). How to Do Lie on your stomach, with the tips of the feet flat on the floor and palms placed next to the chest. Push your shoulders back as you lift your upper body up. The hands should be used for supporting the body but no extra pressure should be exerted. Put your chin up and hold the pose for few seconds. Gently release the pose and lie back on your stomach. Repeat this pose 3 to 4 times.  2. The Cat and Cow Pose This is amongst one of the best animal yoga poses for toddlers and very effective in strengthening and providing length to the spine muscles and back (4). How to Do Come on all your fours with knees hip-width apart and arms placed just below the shoulders. Inhale and arch your spine inwards as you push your back towards the ceiling and tuck your chin in your chest. (cat pose) Exhale and curl your spine outwards by pushing it towards the floor as you look up. (cow pose) Repeat the pose 3 to 4 times with inhalation and exhalation.  3. The Bow Pose If dads are doing yoga with toddlers, they can try this fun yoga pose that kids would enjoy practising! This pose is great for the digestive tract, strengthens the spine and back, shoulders, legs, and chest (5). How to Do Lie flat on your stomach with arms on the side and head resting on the mat. Inhale and bend your knees, bring them close to the hips. Hold your ankles with your hands as you lift your chest, hips and legs off the floor. Stay in the pose for a few seconds or breaths. Release the pose and relax on your stomach.  4. The Butterfly Pose This pose is great for opening up the thighs, groin, and hip muscles. It is also great for regulating bowel movements (6). How to Do Sit straight and keep the spine straight. Fold the knees and place them close to the groin area as both feet touch each other. Hold both the feet with the hands. Breathe normally as you flap your knees like a butterfly. Let the movement begin slowly and then speed up gradually. Gently stop and release the pose.  5. The Easy Pose As the name suggests, this yoga pose is one of the simplest poses that kids of all age groups can do. How to Do Sit straight with the legs crossed and hands placed on the knees with palms facing upwards. The spine should be straight and not stiff and legs and thighs should be relaxed. The pose should be held for a few minutes and gently released. 6. The Corpse Pose Corpse Pose is a relaxing pose that helps calm your mind, reduce stress, and give your body a chance to rest and recharge (7). Though fairly easy, it needs patience! How to Do Lie on your back and keep the legs straight. Place the arms slightly away from the body as your palms face the ceiling. Close your eyes and stay relaxed. Exhale and inhale slowly as you rest your body on the ground. Stay in the pose for a few minutes. 7. The Downward Dog Pose A classic pose that helps toddlers stretch their arms, legs, and spine while also building strength and coordination (8). How to Do Begin on all fours with hands shoulder-width apart and knees under hips. Tuck the toes and lift the hips toward the ceiling to form an upside-down V shape. Encourage your toddler to keep their feet flat and hands firmly on the ground. Hold for a few seconds and come back to the starting position. 8. The Tree Pose This balancing pose helps develop focus, stability, and body awareness (9). How to Do Stand tall with feet together and arms at the sides. Lift one foot and place it on the inner ankle or calf of the opposite leg (avoid the knee). Bring hands together at the chest or stretch them above the head. Hold the pose and then switch legs. 9. The Child’s Pose A calming, resting pose ideal for quiet time or transitions (10). How to Do Kneel on the floor with toes together and knees apart. Lower the chest down to rest between the thighs. Stretch the arms forward or keep them by the sides. Breathe slowly and relax. Yoga Activities for Child to Try At Home Yoga doesn’t have to be quiet or serious, especially when it’s with kids! Make it playful, interactive, and full of imagination to keep little ones engaged and moving. Here are some fun preschool or toddler yoga activities to try right in your living room: ABC Pose Challenge: Go through the alphabet and come up with a yoga pose for each letter; “A is for Alligator pose,” “B is for Butterfly,” and so on. Use animals, nature, or even things around the house to inspire the poses. Yoga Storytime: Turn your yoga time into a storytelling journey. Pretend you’re exploring a jungle, going camping, or flying to the moon! Add poses and movements to act out parts of the story as you go along. Animal Yoga Adventure: Turn yoga into a story where each pose represents an animal, like a cat, dog, or frog, creating a playful and imaginative session. Themed Pose Corners: Decorate a corner of the room with themed yoga cards. Tape them to the wall and let your child choose one to copy each day or create their own routine. Yoga Obstacle Course: Set up a course using pillows, mats, and toys, with yoga poses at each station to create a fun challenge. How to Help Your Child to Keep Engaged in Yoga? Keeping young children interested in yoga requires creativity, flexibility, and lots of fun! Since kids learn best through play and imagination, yoga sessions should feel more like a game than a routine. Be the Example: Practice yoga where your child can see you. They may naturally want to join in and mimic what you’re doing, no pressure, just playful curiosity. Give Them Their Own Space: A colourful yoga mat just for them can make a big difference. It gives them a special place to move, stretch, and explore. Even if they wander over to your mat sometimes, having their own space makes it feel more personal. Keep it Short and Sweet: Young kids have short attention spans, so start with sessions that last just 5–10 minutes. Gradually increase the time as they show more interest. Make It Playful: Use silly names for poses, invent new ones together, and don’t worry if the poses aren’t perfect. Celebrate their effort and creativity over accuracy, and cheer them on when they try something new! FAQs 1. Do I need to be trained in yoga to teach it to my child? Not at all! You don’t need to be a certified instructor to introduce yoga at home. Just follow simple videos, use yoga books or cards, and focus on having fun. 2. How is yoga for kindergarteners different from toddler yoga? While toddler yoga is mostly about playful movement, yoga for kindergarteners can include more structured poses, short sequences, and basic relaxation techniques. They can better understand pose names and follow along with stories. 3. How can I make yoga fun for my child? Incorporate songs, animal sounds, stories, and games into your yoga time. Use yoga cards, make up silly pose names, or go on pretend adventures with movement. The more imaginative, the better! These are some yoga poses that your toddler can do with ease. However, if you any concerns or queries about starting any new form of exercise for your toddler, you may consult a paediatrician and check if your kiddo can indulge in this kind of physical activity or not! References/Resources: 1. Arizona Early Childhood – 7 Benefits of Yoga for Young Kids 2. Cleveland Clinic – Yoga for Kids: Benefits and 17 Poses and Exercises To Get Started 3. The Art of Living – Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) 4. The Art of Living – Cat Cow Pose: Stretch and Breathe to a More Flexible Spine 5. The Art of Living – Dhanurasana (Bow pose) 6. The Art of Living – Butterfly Pose (Badhakonasana) 7. The Art of Living – Shavasana (Corpse Pose) 8. The Art of Living – Downward-Facing Dog: Stretch and Strengthen the Spine and Chest 9. The Art of Living – Vrikshasana (The Tree Pose) 10. The Art of Living – Child’s Pose: The Resting Stretch For the Mind and Body Also Read: Interactive Activities For Toddlers Top Gross Motor Skills Activities for Toddlers Everyday Activities for 3 Year Old Children Best Language Development Activities for Toddlers Read more

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The Perfect Car Seat & Restraints for your Toddler

A toddler’s safety while driving is of utmost importance to his parents. It looks like choosing the right car seat for your toddler may not be such an easy task after all. Follow these guidelines and tips to buy the right car seat for your toddler. No matter how careful the caregiver is, the best option when travelling with a baby is to secure her in a car seat at the beginning of the journey. Car seats are still gaining popularity in India. The popular perception is how a child can be more safe in a car seat than when he is on his mother’s lap. And yet, the process of purchase only begins after the decision to buy a car seat has been made. The best option for an age-appropriate car seat has to do with a child’s body size and shape. Below are some quick tips on making the right choice and following some restraint: Factors to be Considered When Buying a Car Seat 1. Age of the child If the child is less than six months old, you will need a rear-facing car seat. This is primarily so that the baby’s head is not pushed ahead even if a sudden break is applied. 2. Latch compatibility of your car seats Make sure that your seat is latch-compatible with a car seat. Cars made before 2002 do not have these features, and all cars after that have incorporated it. 3. Fitting into the stroller You may want to invest in a car seat which is compatible with a stroller so that you do not have to worry about taking the baby out of the seat and putting him into the stroller. You can simply pull out the car seat from the base and adjust it into the stroller. 4. Budget Budget is a very important feature when buying good quality equipment. Today, there are brands that cater to various segments with different requirements. Identify your requirements correctly before picking up an car-seat for your baby. 5. Brand and Warranty Brand and Warranty are crucial when investing in a car seat. Ensure you have the correct and complete invoices of the products purchased so that the product may be exchanged in case of a genuine problem. Types of Car Seats and Restraints for Toddlers Rear-facing car seat: As the name suggests, it is a car seat facing the back of the car and is especially useful to protect the slender neck of your infant from injury when there is a sudden break, etc. Front-facing car seat : Infants, beyond the age of six months, may be placed in these as babies this age develop some neck control Combination seat : This allows parents to increase the shelf-life of a product. The product can be used as a seat for infants, and then converted as your baby grows into a toddler. Some tips to keep in mind when the baby is being seated in the car seat: Watch her dress to ensure that no corner or frill is caught in the car seat for it may prove dangerous for the kid. Keep your ears open for recalls – if the car seat brand makes a recall of their products, act on it immediately. Seek the advice of your pediatrician and other parents to choose the right seat that meets the specific needs of your little one. There are different car seat varieties available in the market with features that make them adjustable and convertible. Safety is paramount to parents and a good-quality product with safety measures will ensure that you can rely on the product. Read more

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How to Bond With Your Adopted Child

Children bring joy to any household, whether they are biological or adopted. The younger the child is when you adopt him, the easier it becomes for him to adjust. The key to sharing an unparalleled bond with your adopted child is by talking to him and assuring that he is always loved. Cuddling and giving him constant attention helps him trust you more and makes him feel more at ease. Why is Attachment or Bonding with An Adopted Child So Important? Just like any other parent who has had a baby and undergoes anxiety, adoptive parents also undergo post-adoption anxieties. It’s important for the parents and the child that a strong bond is created, as emotional attachment is a treasure that adopted children nurture throughout their journey in life, and forms the base of how they shape up as adults. Bonding ensures that the child develops a healthy social lifestyle. It boosts his cognitive development. Helps in the development of logical thinking. Helps him manage his emotions positively. Sows the seeds of conscience in him. Keeps him deep-rooted to the realities of life. Improves the child’s mental health. Attachment Responses in an Adopted Child The age of the child at the time of adoption is a key factor for the responses he would develop towards the attachment with his adoptive parents. 1. In Infancy A child adopted during his infancy is likely to be more attached to his adoptive parents. It gives the parents a lot more time to help the child adjust in his new home, and the process of bonding begins at a very nascent stage. 2. As the Child Grows The child’s needs differ with his age. He may be psychologically or emotionally impoverished owing to his foster homes or his surroundings. It is crucial that the parents demonstrate their feelings towards the new member with great affection and love. In case any distress is observed in the child, it’s best to reach out for professional advice. Techniques to Bond with an Adopted Child It can be a mixed feeling of happiness, anxiety and concern when your adopted child finally comes home. Don’t be hard on yourself as it is very common to experience bonding issues. Instead, practise being patient and calm. Try some of these strategies to help your new member settle down in your home: 1. Set a Routine If your adopted child is an older child or toddler who has been in a foster home, it is essential that you help him structure his life. The best way to do that is to set a routine for him to follow every day. 2. Personal Space Everyone loves a little privacy in their lives, as does the new member of your family. Giving him his own space in the house helps him overcome his anxiety, all the while building trust in you. 3. Playing with Him Toddlers and older children love attention. The best way to get your child to interact with you and your family is to play with him. This helps him to connect and establish a bond with you. 4. Surprise Him Buy him small presents. Leave little messages in places he is most likely to find them, like tiffin boxes or the study table. This will reaffirm the fact that he is in your thoughts even if you are not near him. 5. Teach Him to Ask for Help Make your adopted child feel at home and let him know that you are there with him all the time. It is ok for him to reach out to you whenever he wants, but he should be aware of that fact too! 6. Build His Confidence Adopted children may have a fear of upsetting their new family. Always make your child feel loved and reiterate that it’s only his misbehaviour (if any) that upsets you. It is important that you pick the appropriate words to express your feelings and prevent any negativity from arising in his mind. What to Do If Your Child Seems to be Developing Later Than Others? There can be a lot of factors influencing the developmental factors in a child. The care that your adopted baby had received before adoption will have a significant effect on your bonding with him. He might experience developmental delays as his interaction with adults was probably very minimal. Most of the time, with proper therapy and timely intervention, these small developmental delays can be overcome. It is a unique experience to parent a child. It comes with its own set of stressful moments but with time, everything settles down, and you get to enjoy the most beautiful relationship with your child. Also Read: Attachment Parenting & Their Benefits Read more

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How Many Words Should a 18 Month Old Say?

An 18-month-old’s vocabulary and ability to understand, comprehend and follow instructions can surprise parents. They’re no longer small infants but are moving on to becoming confident toddlers. Familiarise yourself with these important changes and find out how you can help your child’s vocabulary develop. A look at your 18-month-old child can reveal numerous changes from when she was 6 months or even a year old. Soon, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with a curious toddler whose questions never end. But, before that happens, you need to try to understand her level of communication so you can help her develop it further. Decoding a Toddler’s Vocabulary and Communication Skills Things an 18 Months Old Can Do At 18 months old, children reach a stage of rapid development, and their newfound skills and abilities are both fascinating and heartwarming for parents. This age marks a significant period of growth and exploration, during which toddlers begin to demonstrate a range of exciting capabilities. 1. She Can Utter a Few Words So, how many words by 18 months? At this age, your child can speak about 20-200 words. While some like ‘mummy’ may be exclusive to you, she could show a tendency to use a word for a group of things. For instance, everybody except you will be ‘daddy’ or ‘papa’ for her. She may create her own word for a group of things and use it for another bunch of objects too. At 18 months, she will also be able to say a few pronouns like ‘mine’ or ‘his’, and may point out to an object and say ‘this’. She may also understand the concepts of ‘up’, ‘down’, ‘small’ and ‘big’. However, she may be selective in displaying these newly acquired abilities and will be most communicative with you and your husband. 2. She Can Recognise Words There’s no strict number to how many words an 18-month-old should say. However, they can add 1-2 new words to their list every day. Their vocabulary may consist of as many as 200 words though they haven’t learnt to say them yet. When you say ‘sky’, ‘grass’, ‘car’, ‘juice’, ‘water’, ‘food’ etc., there’s a good chance you’ll get a response from your child. 3. She Can Comprehend Instructions and Questions Your toddler may be able to recognise a large number of words at 18 months, but she’ll really understand those that are being used daily or frequently. At this stage, she can also understand instructions like ‘Get the ball from your room’, ‘Let us go to bed’ and ‘Do you want more?’ Asking her more questions and giving more instructions can help her develop her vocabulary and communication skills. 4. She Can Speak Short Sentences Grammatical development also begins at this stage and while toddlers may not speak complete and complex sentences, you may hear disjointed sentences and phrases such as “Want play” for “I want to play”. Tonality will also vary and you’ll be able to understand when she asks for something or is simply trying to talk. Children of this age may also point at an object and say familiar words. At this time, you must help her build sentences so she can learn them better. How Many Words Should an 18-Month Say? By 18 months, a child typically begins to say around 15-50 words. However, there can be significant variation in language development, and some children may say more or fewer words at this age. It’s important to focus on the overall language development and communication skills of the child rather than fixating on a specific word count. Ways to Encourage Your 18 Months to Talk Encouraging language development in your 18-month-old is crucial for her overall communication skills. By providing a language-rich environment and engaging in activities that stimulate her speech, you can support your child’s language growth. Here are some ways to encourage your 18-month-old to talk: Talk to Her – Engage in regular conversations with your child, even if her responses are limited. Describe what you’re doing, ask simple questions, and provide ample opportunities for her to hear and participate in conversations. Read Aloud – Share books with colorful pictures and simple stories. Reading together not only enhances vocabulary but also fosters a love for books and storytelling. Sing Songs and Rhymes – Singing familiar songs and rhymes can help your child pick up new words and develop a sense of rhythm and melody. Encourage her to join in with simple actions. Expand Her Vocabulary – Introduce new words daily. Label objects, actions, and emotions in your child’s environment. For example, “This is a red ball” or “You look happy today.” Use Gestures – Combine words with gestures to help convey meaning. For instance, when you say “drink,” pretend to sip from a cup. This reinforces the word’s meaning. Play Together – Engage in pretend play with your child using dolls, action figures, or playsets. This can lead to imaginative storytelling and the use of new words. Limit Screen Time – Minimize screen time and prioritize face-to-face interactions. Real-life communication is more beneficial for language development. Average Vocabulary of an 18-Month-Old Baby Typically, toddlers at 18 months of age possess a vocabulary of anywhere between 20 to 200 words. These developmental milestones are influenced by individual preferences, interests, genetic factors, and the environmental stimuli to which each child is exposed. For instance, one toddler may excel in motor skills, while another’s focus might be on communication skills, and yet another may exhibit a penchant for artistic abilities. Common Words Your 18 Months Old Should Know As your child reaches the age of 18 months, she is expected to have a growing vocabulary and begin expressing herself through words. While language development varies from child to child, an 18-month-old’s vocabulary list should include these common words. These words provide a foundation for effective communication and understanding. Mama Dada Bye-bye Hi/Hello No Yes More Please Thank you Milk FAQs 1. Should Your 18-Month-Old Baby Be Talking in Sentences? No, it’s not expected for an 18-month-old to talk in full sentences. At this age, children typically have a vocabulary of around 50 words and may combine two or three words to form simple phrases, but full sentences are not common. Language development varies, so focus on their progress and encourage communication. 2. What If Your Child Is Not Talking by Eighteen Months of Age? If your child is not talking by 18 months, it’s a good idea to consult with a pediatrician or a speech therapist. While some variation in language development is normal, a lack of speech or severe delay may warrant professional evaluation to rule out any underlying issues. 3. Is It Normal for an 18-month-old to Babble? Yes, it’s completely normal for an 18-month-old to babble. Babbling is an important part of language development and can be a precursor to words and phrases. It’s a sign that your child is exploring sounds and building the foundation for speech. As your toddler goes through this interesting stage, she could develop quicker or slower than her peers. Unless she displays noticeable signs of developmental delay, don’t be alarmed. Even if your 18-month-old is only doing two out of the four points mentioned above, you shouldn’t worry. Continue to guide her and she’ll soon learn the rest. References/Resources: 1. Moyle. J, Stokes. S, Klee. T; Early language delay and specific language impairment; National Library of Medicine; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23362035/ 2. Late Language Emergence; American Speech Language Hearing Association; https://www.asha.org/practice-portal/clinical-topics/late-language-emergence/ 3. Hammer. C, Morgan. P, Farkas. G, Hillemeier. M, et al.; Late Talkers: A Population-Based Study of Risk Factors and School Readiness Consequences (Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5962923/; March 2017 4. Feldman. H; How young children learn language and speech: Implications of theory and evidence for clinical pediatric practice (Pediatrics In Review); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7236655/; August 2019 5. Hosani. S, Darwish. E, Ayanikalath. S, AlMazroei. R, et al.; Screen time and speech and language delay in children aged 12–48 months in UAE: a case-control study (Middle East Current Psychiatry); Springer Open; https://mecp.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43045-023-00318-0; June 2023 6. Hustad. K, Allison. K, McFadd. E, Riehle. K; Speech and Language Development in 2-Year-Old Children with Cerebral Palsy (Developmental Neurorehabilitation); National Library of Medicine; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3732544/; April 2013 7. Shivakumar. P, Narayanan. S; End-to-end neural systems for automatic children speech recognition: An empirical study (Computer Speech & Language); Science Direct; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0885230821000905; March 2022 8. Gilbert. J; Structure and Process in Speech Perception; Springer Link; https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-81000-8_19 Also Read: Mouthing Objects in an 18 Months Old 18 Months Old Baby Growth and Development Improving Stacking Skills in an 18 Months Old When Your 18 Months Old Asserts Independence Read more

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