Safety
Suggested articles for you
Online Gaming Risks in Children: Signs, Safety, and Solutions
There were days when games were played on the streets and courts, and now they are played on computers, mobile phones, and Xbox. With digital devices at people’s fingertips, online gaming options aren’t far away, especially for children. Persistent and excess exposure has led to online gaming addiction in kids. According to the Entertainment Software Association, at least one person in two-thirds of American households plays video games (1). Internet gaming disorder or online gaming addiction refers to the excessive use of online (internet-based) or video games that eventually leads to neglecting one’s responsibilities and physical health (2). In this article, we aim to make you aware of some surprisingly harmful effects of online games on children.
What Are Online Games?
Online games are the types of games that are available on the internet. From simple text-based games to virtual reality, online games offer a wide variety that incorporates virtual worlds, complex graphics, and goals and targets (3). You can find online games on several PC gaming platforms, like Stream, GOD, and EPIC Games, on smartphones by downloading gaming apps from the Play Store like Google Play or Apple App Store, and on websites that offer online games, like Miniclip, Armor Games, Kongregate, etc. There are several game consoles available for online gaming as well, including PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
How Do They Work?
In online games, there can be a single player, two players, and even multiples in a single online game. The benefit of online games is that a player can connect to other players across the world over the internet without knowing them personally. All the players are connected to a central game server hosted by the game developer or a third-party provider. The server’s role is to manage the game and keep the actions and tabs of all players synchronised. The players connect to other players within the game through text or voice chat features.
Major Risks of Online Gaming for Children
The risks of online gaming for children cannot be missed when it comes to their he
1. Inappropriate Content Exposure
Some games can expose your child to violent or sexual content that might not be age-appropriate. Therefore, it is necessary for parents to check the age rating of games, frequently monitor what type of games their children are playing, and avoid exposing themselves to any inappropriate content.
2. Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is very common in the world of online gaming. Instances like bullying, teasing, exclusion from games, and insults can be easily found. Teaching children how to recognise and respond to cyberbullying is crucial.
3. Sharing of Personal Information
Online gaming involves connecting with players worldwide where numerous people connect, giving frauds a window to access players’ personal information, such as name, age, location, etc., and use them to blackmail people. Teaching online safety by knowing when an where to put the information and recognising fake and legal sites is crucial to avoid identity fraud.
4. Virus and Malware Exposure
Online gaming can expose your child’s gaming devices to malware, trojans, and viruses through infected website visits, downloads, links, or ads. Teaching your child about safe downloading practices to protect your devices is important.
5. Addiction
The addiction online gaming induces in children is extremely harmful, leading some children to play excessively, which may interfere with daily life academics and activities. Addiction has taken the lives of several children, and there are several instances of children taking their own lives; in Pune, a 15-year-old boy allegedly died by suicide after jumping from the 14th floor of a building under the influence of the deadly game “Blue Whale.” The child left a suicide note which had “logout” written on it. Further investigation revealed that the child was addicted to online gaming for a few months and used to stay isolated for hours with his laptop.
Parents should set limits on gaming time and monitor their children’s behaviour to prevent online gaming addiction.
6. Scams
Several online games involve exchanging virtual currency or items to progress. These currencies can be gained through any means; thus, it is highly important to monitor your child’s online activity, teach them about such scams, and protect their parents’ hard-earned money.
7. Physical Health Impact
Excessive gaming can lead to several physical health issues in children, such as eye strain, sleep deprivation, back pain, neck pain, and hand and finger stiffness or injuries from prolonged use of controllers or keyboards.
8. Phishing Scams and Account Takeover
There are infinite numbers of hackers present in the gaming world. They may gain unauthorised access to gaming accounts through phishing scams, weak links or passwords, or sharing account information, and then, with the use of such information, they may blackmail children. Hackers also create fake login pages or send phishing emails or links to trick children into entering their personal information and revealing that to hackers. Make sure your kid understands the importance of securing their accounts by recognising basic HTML link nuances and recognising phishing scams.
9. In-game Shopping
Online games involve buying and selling dresses and accessories for their characters through in-game currencies by pitching real money. This encourages children to spend more unnecessarily.
Why Did Online Gaming Become an Addiction for Children?
The World Health Organization recognises gaming disorder in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), defining it as a pattern of gaming behaviour where control is impaired, gaming takes priority over other activities, and it continues despite negative consequences (4). Similar to addictive disorders, internet gaming disorder has also revealed the activation of the dopamine reward system (5).
One of the reasons or causes of online game addiction is the release of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is released when indulged in pleasurable activities, such as playing, spending time with loves ones, eating good or favourite food, etc. The feel-good hormone induces the brain to feel pleasure and repeat such behaviour and activities. When children play online games, dopamine is introduced, and they are encouraged to play more and more. As they play, they win and lose, prompting them to win more by playing more and more, developing a sense of achievement. Hence, the pattern of addiction.
Signs of Online Gaming Addiction in Children
Gaming addiction in children can get pretty serious when you least expect it. There are some signs that parents can remember to watch out for in their children and take necessary measures before it becomes more serious. Here are those signs:
Gaming habits have started to disrupt or replace daily activities like sleeping and social interaction (playing out with friends or siblings at home, engaging in convos, etc.
The child has started neglecting their academics, like homework and school projects for gaming online.
They are replacing the old hobbies they used to do and friends with online games.
The physical changes include dark circles under the eyes, fatigued and bloodred eyes, and sore backs, wrists, and fingers.
They keep focusing and thinking of online games throughout the day.
Children start feeling restless and anxious when unable to play games.
They pay less attention to their duties.
They have started relying on online games for mood boosts.
How to Diagnose Online Gaming Addiction in a Child?
The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR) lays out several materials for doctors to diagnose mental disorders, including gamic addiction, i.e. Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD).
There are different diagnoses and tests available to determine online gaming addiction in children. Your child’s healthcare provider most probably will refer you to a child psychologist or psychiatrist to diagnose the child’s behavioural patterns through medical history and daily routine. According to the American Psychiatric Association, the individual must present five or more symptoms within a year to diagnose the internet gaming disorder (1).
Let’s learn about preventing online gaming addiction in children at the parents’ level.
How to Keep Your Child Safe From Online Gaming Risks?
It is possible to keep your child away from online gaming risk without actually removing them altogether from such games. All you need to do is:
1. Select games together
Understand the world of online gaming first by learning about them on YouTube videos, article reviews, and online forums where plenty of gamers discuss different games. While choosing online games for your child, choose games from known publishers for which there are considerable downloads, reviews, ratings, and hidden malware.
2. Check the themes of games
Before finalising a game, check what the game is all about, its plot, goal, and characters. Also, check the rating; most games have a PEGI rating, which suggests the age-suitability for children. For instance, if a game is rated 7, it means it is suitable for children aged 7 and above.
3. Activate parental controls and put strong passwords
Setting up parental controls can help parents put a cap on what games children can access according to their age. Games like Fortnite and Roblox have auto-built parental controls, while some game consoles, like Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PS4, and PS5, need parental control. Parents can also put up strong and unknown passwords for logging in to games by setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) and a reliable VPN to help avoid fraudulent hacking and data leaking.
4. Monitor your child’s gaming and in-game spending
Putting up controls won’t be enough; monitoring the game your child is playing is also necessary to check what characters they are playing and how much in-game currency they are spending. Keeping the game consoles and gaming activities in the communal area or in the open is a wise move for parents to always keep a check on their child’s gaming and protect them from hackers and scammers.
5. Build a reward system
Building a reward system for children to keep their gaming limits. You can set up a reward system where every hour of physical activity like playing outside, dancing, or singing will unlock 15-20 minutes of gaming online. This will teach children the value of time and discipline.
6. Teach kids about appropriate and inappropriate content
It may not always be possible to monitor your child’s gaming, so teaching them about the right and inappropriate content on games is essential. Keep your voice gentle and teach them about the right characters, when to get out when they see a type of content they are not required to see, and provide them a safe space to tell you whenever they feel unsafe or bothered.
7. Put restrictions on games
Putting restrictions on games other than parental controls is important. One such restriction is in-game spending. Parents can block their regular use of prepaid debit or credit cards for in-game purchases and only use gift cards or prepaid kids’ debit cards for making safe purchases online, as these cards have a set limit that can help control spending. This will also prevent hackers from leaking personal and financial account information.
8. Turn on the notification
Notifications can help you keep track of what games your child is playing and for how long they are playing a particular game, making it easy for parents to detect any budding addiction.
Treatment Offered for Online Game Addiction
Psychotherapy by mental health professionals, including child psychologists or psychiatrists, is a common method of treating addiction and the negative effects of online games in children. It is a term for a variety of treatments that help identify the changes in thoughts, emotions, and behaviours of children.
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a structured, goal-focused therapy where a therapist helps children examine their thoughts and emotions closely. In CBT for video game addiction, the therapist’s goal is to observe harmful patterns of gaming in children and develop better habits by turning them in the right direction.
2. Group Therapy
Group therapy involves people coming together to discuss their problems under the guidance of a therapist. For children struggling with video game addiction, group therapy offers motivation and support to talk when there are more children involved.
When & Where to Seek Professional Support?
If you see the signs of potential video game addiction in your child, it is best to consult a mental health professional as soon as possible. You can consult a child counsellor in the beginning stages and if you feel your child needs exclusive counselling, then you can turn to a child psychologist.
The possible signs that should prompt you to take further action are:
Devoting too much time to gaming
Poor performance at school
Withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, irritability, instant anger, or sadness
Lying to parents for and about gaming
Decline in physical health
Setting Up Parental Control on Your Child’s Device?
Parental controls are extremely helpful in monitoring your child’s use of video games as well as online content by restricting access to non-age-appropriate websites, games, and chat rooms.
Here is the set of instructions for setting up parental controls on most gaming consoles and devices.
1. Xbox
Once you have signed up with a Microsoft account, you can set up parental control on the Xbox gaming console. Here’s how:
Open the Google Play Store or App Store and download the Xbox Family Settings app by searching for it.
Sign in to your earlier created Microsoft account and choose “Add Them Now,” then select “Create Child Account,” and select “Next.”
After creating your children’s accounts, select their profiles to set up the necessary restrictions. Now, you have the feature to block chat features, set screen limits, and even monitor their friend lists.
2. PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Prior to setting up parental controls on PS5, you are required to create separate accounts for your children and yourself. The following steps are as follows:
Turn on the console and sign in to the “Account Management.” Once signed in, go to “Family Management.”
Now, select your name and click on the checkbox provided for “Parent/Guardian.”
Once logged in, scroll to the right and select the “Settings” icon.
Go to “Family and Parental Controls,” then select “PS5 Console Restrictions,” and then set up a four-digit restriction passcode.
Now, again log in to “PS5 Console Restrictions” and then click on Parental Controls for New Users.
3. Nintendo Switch
To set up parental controls on Nintendo Switch, follow these steps:
Open the console, click on the “System Settings” tab on the Home Menu, and then click on “Parental Controls.”
Generate a four-digit PIN and then click on the “secret question.” Make sure to add the backup email address if you ever forget either the PIN or the secret question.
Now, you have access to configure settings, including access to Nintendo 3DS shopping services, restricting browser use, friend registration, online interaction, and more.
Now, click on the “Parental Control” settings according to the player’s age.
4. Personal Computer (PC)
Here are the instructions to follow to set up parental controls on the PC:
Search for “Family Options” from the Windows search bar, and click “Suggest.”
Now, open the “System Settings” and click on “View Family Settings.“
Once redirected to Microsoft’s website, create a separate account for your children.
You will be appointed as the “Organizer” to set up parental controls. Turn on the controls on your children’s accounts separately.
Once parental controls are enabled, the selected accounts will automatically accommodate the settings.
5. Mobile Gaming
The process of setting up parental controls on Mobile Gaming is as follows:
Click on the profile icon in the top right corner of the Google Play app.
Click on “Settings,” then “Family,” and then “Parental Controls.”
Turn on parental controls and create a PIN to secure the process.
You can click on different filters to restrict your child access, such as games, movies, books, or apps. Age-based filtration process is also available.
FAQs
1. Can a child get withdrawal symptoms as they reduce their gaming addiction?
If you start to reduce your child’s gaming time, they are likely to go through withdrawal symptoms, most often showing up as anxiety. This could also manifest as anger, frustration, emotional outbursts, or noticeable fear. While there’s no quick fix for these symptoms, you can encourage your child to confront the emotions they’ve been avoiding while absorbed in online gaming. Being patient with your child’s symptoms like fear and pain is important for parents at this point in time, and resolve each problem as the days progress.
Online video gaming is common among individuals of all ages, yet children are the most vulnerable. Harbouring plenty of bad effects on students, young children, and teenagers, it is imperative for parents to be extra cautious when their children play games online or physically. Do not hesitate or delay in consulting a medical expert, as the more delay there is, the long-lasting the consequences.
Never forget that your child has unlimited potential and if they fall in the trap of online gaming addiction, they can come out of it with your love and support.
References/Resources:
1. Internet Gaming; American Psychiatric Association; https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Internet-Gaming
2. Technology Addictions: Social Media, Online Gaming, and More; American Psychiatric Association; https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/technology-addictions-social-media-and-more
3. What is Online Games; IGI Global; https://www.igi-global.com/dictionary/online-games/20978
4. Gaming disorder; WHO; https://www.who.int/standards/classifications/frequently-asked-questions/gaming-disorder
5. Palaus. M, et al.; Neural Basis of Video Gaming: A Systematic Review; Frontiers in Human Neuroscience; https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2017.00248/full; May 2017
Also Read:
Impact of Social Media on Kids
Impact of Television (TV) on Kids
Influence of Advertising on Children
Effects of Gadgets on Child Development
Factors Affecting Child Growth and Development
Harmful Effects of Using Mobile Phones on Children
Impact of Video Games on Children – The Good and the Bad
Read more
When Can a Toddler Have a Pillow?
As parents, we cherish those precious moments when our little ones drift into dreamland. But have you ever wondered when it’s the right time to introduce a pillow to your toddler? The parenting journey is filled with such questions, and in this warm and engaging article, we’ll discuss when and why you should consider adding a pillow to your toddler’s sleep setup.
Is it Important to Introduce a Pillow to Your Toddler?
Many parents wonder whether a pillow is necessary for their toddlers. After all, they look so snug without one, don’t they?
While it might seem optional, introducing a pillow to toddlers can be more significant than you think. Beyond mere comfort, it can affect their sleep quality and overall well-being. Let’s delve into why it’s essential.
When Can Your Toddler Sleep With a Pillow?
Now, let’s address the pivotal question: when can your toddler sleep with a pillow? There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer because every child is unique. However, as a general guideline, most experts recommend that toddlers’ pillow age be around 2 to 3 years old (2). At this age, their neck and shoulders are typically developed enough to use a pillow without discomfort safely.
Signs That Your Toddler Needs a Pillow
So, how do you know when to give a toddler a pillow? Here are some telltale signs to watch for:
1. Restless Sleep
If your toddler tosses and turns throughout the night, it might be because they’re trying to find a comfortable sleeping position. A pillow can provide the extra support they need for a peaceful slumber.
2. Frequent Head Tilting
Does your little one often tilt their head to one side while sleeping? This could be a sign that they’re trying to find a comfortable angle for their neck. A pillow can help maintain proper alignment.
3. Transitioning From a Crib
When your little one starts sleeping in a toddler bed instead of a crib, it’s a good time to give them a pillow. The familiar comfort can make the transition smoother.
4. Vocal About Discomfort
Consider a pillow if your toddler complains about discomfort or neck pain upon waking (4). Their comfort and well-being are paramount.
5. Mimicking Adults
Toddlers love to imitate grown-ups; if they see you using a pillow, they may also express an interest in having one.
Benefits of Sleeping With a Pillow for a Toddler
Now that we’ve explored when to give your toddler a pillow let’s delve into the numerous benefits it can offer:
1. Comfort and Support: A pillow provides the necessary cushioning for your toddler’s head and neck, promoting a more comfortable sleep.
2. Proper Spinal Alignment: A pillow can help maintain your toddler’s natural spine alignment (1), ensuring they wake up refreshed.
3. Enhanced Sleep Quality: With the added comfort, your toddler will likely enjoy a deeper and more restful sleep.
4. Security and Comfort: A soft pillow can offer a sense of security and comfort, making bedtime a more soothing experience.
5. Transition Aid: A familiar pillow can make this adjustment easier if your child transitions from a crib to a bed.
How to Choose the Right Pillow for Your Toddler?
When selecting the perfect pillow for your toddler, it’s essential to consider their needs and safety. Here are some essential factors to keep in mind:
1. Size Matters
Opt for a small, appropriately sized pillow designed for toddlers. This ensures that it provides the right amount of support without overwhelming them.
2. Material
Look for hypoallergenic materials to prevent allergies or sensitivities. Pillows made from breathable and easy-to-clean fabrics are ideal.
3. Supportive, Not Too Soft
Choose a pillow that offers support without being too soft (5). A firmer pillow helps maintain proper alignment and prevents sinking.
4. Easy Maintenance
Select a pillow with a removable, machine-washable cover for convenience. Keeping your toddler’s pillow clean is essential for their health.
5. Safety First
Ensure the pillow is free of choking hazards. Avoid pillows with small detachable parts that could harm your child.
6. Pillowcase Fun
Let your toddler choose a pillowcase with their favourite design or character. This can make them even more excited about their new bedtime companion.
How to Use a Pillow for a Toddler?
Now that you’ve chosen the perfect pillow for your toddler let’s discuss how to use it effectively:
1. Positioning: Place the pillow beneath your toddler’s head and shoulders, ensuring it supports their neck without pushing their head forward.
2. Safety First: Always prioritise safety. Ensure the pillow is firm and free of any loose filling that could pose a choking hazard.
3. Comfort is Key: Encourage your toddler to share their feelings about the pillow. If they find it uncomfortable, be open to making adjustments.
4. Bedtime Ritual: Incorporate the pillow into your toddler’s bedtime routine. This consistency can signal that it’s time for sleep.
5. Check Regularly: Periodically inspect the pillow for wear and tear. Replace it if it is damaged or not supporting properly.
FAQs
1. How frequently should I change my toddler’s pillow?
Changing your toddler’s pillow every 2-3 years or earlier if you spot any signs of damage is recommended. A fresh pillow ensures continued comfort and support.
2. Does my toddler need a bedtime routine?
It’s necessary to set up a regular bedtime routine for your toddler to help them sleep better (3). A consistent routine can help them relax and prepare for a restful night’s sleep. To create a calming atmosphere, include reading bedtime stories, brushing your teeth, and dimming the lights.
Introducing a pillow to a toddler can be a significant step in ensuring their comfort and quality of sleep. Remember to consider their needs and safety when selecting the right pillow, and incorporate it into their bedtime routine to make sleep time a cosy and enjoyable experience for you and your little one. Sweet dreams!
References/Resources:
1. Good Sleeping Posture Helps Your Back; University of Rochester Medical Center; https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=4460
2. Korioth. T; Safe and sound: Help young children get a good night’s rest; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://publications.aap.org/aapnews/article/28/3/25/21710/Safe-and-sound-Help-young-children-get-a-good; March 2007
3. Mindell. J. A, Williamson. A. A; Benefits of a bedtime routine in young children: Sleep, development, and beyond; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6587181/; November 2017
4. What to Do About a Stiff Neck; Nemours KidsHealth; https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/stiff-neck-sheet.html
5. Gordon. S. J, Grimmer-Somers. K; Your Pillow May Not Guarantee a Good Night’s Sleep or Symptom-Free Waking; PubMed Central; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3076923/; April 2011
Also Read:
Ways to Get a Toddler to Sleep at Night
How to Make a Routine that Your Toddler Will Love to Follow
Read more
When Can a Child Use a Booster Seat?
As a parent to a toddler, whenever you make your little one sit in his car seat, you may find yourself asking if he is ready to outgrow it and make the transition to a booster seat. So, when can a child use a booster seat? If your child’s weight and height are as per his age, then you might be considering buying a booster seat for him. But before you make the big investment, find out if your little one is ready for it. If your child shows signs of readiness, you need to learn if it is safe to keep children in a harnessed seat for long.
What Is a Booster Seat?
A booster seat is a seat that helps a child stay safe in a car. Unlike a car seat (rear-facing or forward-facing) that uses a five-point harness, a booster seat uses the seatbelt restraint of the car to keep a child secure. A booster seat lets a child sit on top of the seat and ‘lift’ them up to a height where the seatbelts lie across the strong bones and pelvis of the child and keep them secure. The seat belt is designed to help adults and the booster seat acts as the additional support to match the height of an adult. The transfer to a booster seat for your child is just like a preparation to sit on the seat like an adult until they are old enough.
Types of Booster Seats
There are essentially two kinds of booster seats that you can choose from for your child, once he reaches the right age.
1. Backless Booster Seats
These seats are easy to manoeuvre from one car to another. When using a backless booster, the car must have a seat that has a back which is high enough to give support to the rear of the head. The child’s ears must be below the top of the seat or the headrest.
2. High-Back Booster Seats
As the name suggests, a high-back booster seat has a high back, which helps a child sit upright. It is a great choice for kids and can help position the seat belt on the child accurately. A high-back booster seat is perfect to maintain the posture of kids when they fall asleep during long road journeys.
When Should You Move Your Child to a Booster Seat?
What age for a booster seat seems right? If you’re planning to make a move to a booster seat, you must find out if there’s a right age to do the same. The ideal age for a child to make the move to a booster seat is five. But many parents tend to buy a booster seat early. If you’re considering a booster seat for your toddler, there are some guidelines that you can refer to if you want to assess if your child is ready for the booster seat.
Your child is at least five years of age and weighs at least 40 pounds.
The child is mature enough to sit in the booster seat for the entire journey with the seat belt fitted across the shoulder and below the hips.
The child should have outgrown the weight, height, and internal harness requirements of a five-point harness forward-facing or rear-facing car seat.
Difference Between Car Seats and Booster Seats
Car seats and booster seats are both safety devices designed to protect children in vehicles, but they serve different purposes and are used for different age groups. Here are some key differences:
Age/Size: Car seats are for infants and toddlers, while boosters are for older children.
Support: Car seats provide full support, while boosters raise the child for proper seat belt fit.
Restraint: Car seats use harnesses, while boosters rely on the vehicle’s seat belt.
Purpose: Car seats protect the child’s entire body, while boosters ensure the seat belt fits correctly.
Should You Consider a Booster Seat With a Five-Point Harness?
Keeping a child in a five-point harness seat has its own advantages. A five-point harness seat fits small children as well, and as your child starts using a booster seat they can move out of the secure seat position easily. But you must be careful when you make your child sit in a booster seat. When your little one is sitting in a booster seat, you must ensure that the shoulder belt is not behind their back or under their arm. If the child is uncomfortable then do not make the transition to a booster seat. If they are not comfortable sitting in a booster seat, stick to the car seat with a harness. There is no hurry to make the transition. Wait until your child outgrows the car seat and move them to a booster seat when they meet the statutory requirements and are old enough to understand the mechanics of sitting in the booster seat.
How to Install a Booster Seat
Booster seats are designed to raise a child in the vehicle seat so that the adult seat belt fits properly across the chest and hips. Here’s how to install one:
Choose the right seat: Select a booster seat that fits your child’s size and weight and is compatible with your vehicle’s seat belt system.
Position the booster seat: Place the booster seat in the back seat, preferably in the middle position, for maximum safety.
Secure the booster seat: If your booster seat has a vehicle seat belt lock-off, use it to prevent the seat from moving during a crash.
Buckle up: Help your child buckle the seat belt correctly. The lap belt should fit snugly across their hips, and the shoulder belt should fit snugly across their chest and shoulder, not their neck.
How Long Should You Use a Booster Seat?
It’s generally recommended to keep your child in a booster seat until they reach 4 feet 9 inches tall and are between the ages of 8 and 12 years old. However, the most important factor is ensuring the seat belt fits properly. The lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach, and the shoulder belt should lie snugly across the shoulder and chest, not the neck or face. If the seat belt doesn’t fit correctly without a booster seat, your child should continue to use one.
Choosing the Right Fit Booster Seat
If your child weighs over pounds and is still under the age of five, you might want to look for a harnessed car seat with a higher height and weight limit. You have several harness-to-booster seats available in the market today. They have a higher harness limit and later, can be used as a booster seat. This is ideal if you do want to spend twice on the same product. A harnessed car seat with a higher weight and height limit and a higher top shoulder strap will serve the purpose longer. The seat can be used longer in a booster mode too. You can now buy a car seat under your budget to keep your little one safely harnesses until he is ready to make the transition to a booster seat or perhaps longer.
FAQs
1. Can a child use a booster seat in the front seat?
While it’s generally safest for children to ride in the back seat, some situations may require them to sit in the front. If this is the case, ensure the front passenger airbag is deactivated or moved to the off position.
2. How do I know if my child is sitting correctly in their booster seat?
The lap belt should lie snugly across the upper thighs, not the stomach. The shoulder belt should lie snugly across the shoulder and chest, not the neck or face. Your child should sit upright in the booster seat with their back against the vehicle’s seat back.
3. Can a child use a booster seat with a lap-only seat belt?
No. Booster seats are designed to work with lap-shoulder seat belts. Using a booster seat with a lap-only belt can be dangerous and ineffective.
As mentioned above, you don’t need to move your child to a booster seat if he isn’t ready for it. As per the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is safe to keep a child in a rear-facing car seat until the age of 2. They can progress to a forward-facing car seat once they are over 22-30 pounds in weight. A booster seat is recommended only when they are over 40 pounds in weight and above the age of five years.
References/Resources:
1. Car seats and booster seats; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/car-seats-and-booster-seats
2. Child Passenger Safety (Pediatrics); American Academy of Pediatrics; https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/142/5/e20182460/38530/Child-Passenger-Safety; November 2018
3. Car Seats: Information for Families; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Car-Safety-Seats-Information-for-Families.aspx
4. Booster Seats for School-Aged Children; American Academy of Pediatrics; https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/on-the-go/Pages/Booster-Seats-for-School-Aged-Children.aspx
5. Ma. X, Griffin. R, McGwin. G, Allison. D, et al.; Effectiveness of Booster Seats Compared With No Restraint or Seat Belt Alone for Crash Injury Prevention (Academic Emergency Medicine); National Library of Medicine; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3798005/; September 2014
6. Pitt. T, Howard. A, HubkaRao. T, Hagel. B; The effectiveness of booster seat use in motor vehicle collisions (Accident Analysis & Prevention); Science Direct; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0001457521003274; September 2021
7. Booster Seats; Harborview Injury Prevention & Research Center; https://hiprc.org/outreach/booster/
Also Read:
Tips for Travelling with Children
The Right Age for Your Kid to Face Forward in a Car Seat
Tips to Handle Jet Lag with Babies, Toddlers and Kids
Read more
Used Car Seats- Are They Safe for Babies & Buying and Selling Tips
Buying used baby items will help you save a lot of money. All the baby items that you invest in are temporary since your little one will soon outgrow each of these and then finally, you’ll be thinking about what to do with it. Car seats are essential when it comes to baby accessories. Many of us are quite sceptical about going for a used infant car seat, wondering if second-hand car seats are safe, what to look for while buying a used one, etc. This post will guide you through all these details while purchasing a second-hand car seat for your little princess!
Are Used Car Seats Safe for a Baby?
A blunt answer to this question would say that it’s better that you go for a new car seat instead of an old one. This is because all car seats expire and should not be used for babies beyond its expiry date. While buying a used car seat will save you some bucks but there are a few points you need to keep in mind if you plan to buy a used car seat.
Things to Check Before Buying a Used Car Baby Seat
Below mentioned are certain things that you need to check before buying a used baby car seat:
1. Expiry Date
This is the most important aspect that you need to double-check before selecting a used car seat. The expiry date is written right on the car seat itself, you can also double-check with the user manual provided with it. Most car seats come with a life span of 6 years from the date of manufacture – beyond which you must not use them. So, in case only the date of manufacture is provided, you can calculate the expiry date.
2. Inspect for Damages
Inspect the car seat well for any cracks in the shell and the foam. Also, check the straps for any holes, rips, proper routing, elasticity, etc. In case of used convertible car seats, make sure that the transition is still working. The best and only way to check the routing is by reading and making sure that it matches well with the manual.
3. Trusting the Seller
It’s always better to buy a used car seat from a trusted seller rather than from a stranger, as you need to rely on all the information provided by the seller. So, its always better to avoid buying a used car seat from someone you don’t know, as you will be essentially trusting them with the life of your child by taking this decision.
4. Don’t Fall for Appearances
Always remember appearances can be deceptive! While some car seats may look neat and brand new. they could have gone through a crash or even expired! Well, the opposite of this also holds true. So, make sure that you double-check all the specifics before going for the car seat.
5. Check for Crash History
It’s very important to know whether the car seat was ever involved in an accident or has a crash history. This aspect is very vital because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and car seat manufacturers have replacement criteria for the car seat deciding upon if it’s safe to use after an accident. Most of the car seat manufacturers ask to replace the car seat after any crash. While the NHTSA considers the facts like how much damage has been impacted on the car seat, whether or not airbags were deployed, etc. These details cannot be verified by just looking at the car seat, as sometimes the car seat would look undamaged even when involved in a serious crash.
6. Ask for Original Parts and Manual
It’s important to have all the original parts along with an instruction manual of the car seat for proper functioning and safety of the car seat. Sometimes, some parts may get lost over a period of time, so you need to check with the user manual to make sure that all parts are working and available at the time of purchase. An instruction manual is essential for proper installation of the seat.
7. Registration
Make sure that the car seat is registered with the car manufacturer.
8. Certification by Car Seat Checkpoint
Once the installation of the car seat is complete, you need to visit the car seat checkpoint and get it assessed by a certified child passenger safety technician.
Things to Remember When Selling a Used Car Seat
As an owner of the car seat, it is your responsibility to make sure that you consider all the important aspects before selling your car seat.
1. Ensure There is No Accident History
It is important that to know if the car seat was involved in any crash, as most car seat manufacturers ask never used again after involved in any type of crash.
2. Know the Complete History of the Used Car Seat
If you were not the original owner of the car seat and have bought it from another seller, make sure that you know the complete history of the car seat thoroughly. If you do not know the complete history or who used the car seat then it is not wise to sell it off to a new buyer.
3. Make Sure All the Original Parts Are in Working Condition
Before selling the car seat, get the user manual and check if all the original parts of the car seat are present and whether they are in working condition or not. Check for cracks, holes, damages, harness strap functions, and other damages, if any.
4. Expiry Date
Your car seat will have all the information regarding the date of manufacture and expiry. Make sure that your car seat is well within the date of expiry if you intend to sell it off.
5. Label Information
Use a camera to click a picture of the label that contains all the information regarding the name of the manufacturer, brand name, model number, make, etc. of the car seat and include this information in your post while selling the car seat.
Our best recommendation is to go for cheaper car seats that are new instead of cheap used car seats. However, if you have decided to go for a used car seat, then we recommend you to be selective and extra cautious while picking one.
Also Read:
Right Age for Your Child to Face Forward in a Car Seat
Rear-Facing Car Seat for Your Child
Read more
Car Seat Expiration – When and Why Do They Expire
Child car seats are one of the most important child gear you’ll buy, and just like other gear, these car seats can get really expensive. Even when you buy the top-of-the-line car seat for your baby, your child will not use the seat forever. Thus, you might want to use your old car seat for your newborn, lend it to someone else quickly, or consider donating it to someone in need. But while doing so, be aware that child car seats do expire. Most child car seat manufacturers claim that the useful life of a car seat is about 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture, depending on the seat model. Read on to learn all about car seat expiration.
Why Do Car Seats Expire, and Do They Have Expiration Dates?
Do infant car seats expire? A simple answer to this question is yes, child car seats do have an expiry date, and they do expire for more than one reason. Sometimes your car seat may become useless even before the mentioned expiry date. Let’s understand how long do car seats last, why these child car seats expire, and why they have an expiration date (1).
Reasons why car seats expire:
1. Regular Wear & Tear
The most common and hazardous cause of child car seat expiry is the wearing and tearing of the car seat due to regular usage. Some people argue that their child’s car seat is used only so many times, and it’s only a marketing scheme to fool people into buying new car seats. But agreeing to that statement could be a serious mistake. Car seats are made with plastic, steel, and webbing materials, during a car ride these materials are exposed to a lot of pressure and stress. Additionally, these materials also face the changing temperature of your car and tolerate many spilled liquids and mishandlings. It might not be very visible to the naked eye, but all this leads to the degradation of material over time and affects the strength of the material and overall seat. And no parent would ever want a weak car seat for their children.
2. Changes In Quality Standards & Safety Regulations
Your baby’s safety and security is the number one priority for any child car seat manufacturer. And to meet this promise, manufacturers keep their products comply with the latest safety standard published by the federal government, state and transportation agencies, crash test benchmarks, and car manufacturers. Some manufactures test their child car seat product line beyond the industry standard to ensure that your baby is always in the safest seat. This change in the weight and height limitations of the harness or any other criteria can make your current car seat outdated.
3. New & Improved Car Seat
There are multiple car seat manufacturers in the market, and all of them spend big money on their R&D to render out the best product for their customers. Like any other product, child car seats are also updated and renewed in terms of their design and functionality. Often, these improved versions of car seats are loaded with useful technology and design aesthetics. This makes the older models obsolete in usability, as parents look for ease of use in the product they acquire for their offsprings.
4. Manufacturing Recalls
This might seem like an odd reason for a child’s car seat to expire, but it’s not. Many manufacturers run a recall program for their older models which might need some repair or are reported to have some trouble with the safety of the product. If you registered your newly purchased car seat, then you get a call from the company asking to return the product in exchange for a repair or maintenance or a self-care repair kit. If the product is too obsolete to repair, the manufacturer may ask you to dispose of the seat in a prescribed manner.
Is It Safe to Use Expired Car Seats?
Using expired car seats is not safe because the materials degrade over time, compromising their ability to protect your child in a crash; expiration dates (typically 6-10 years from manufacture) are set by manufacturers based on wear-and-tear testing, and older seats may have weakened plastic, frayed straps, or outdated safety standards, making them unreliable in an accident. Always check the expiration label (usually on the seat’s base or back) and replace expired seats to ensure maximum safety.
How Long Do They Last?
Car seats typically last between 6 to 10 years from the date of manufacture, depending on the brand and model, as plastics and other materials degrade over time due to heat, UV exposure, and general wear. Manufacturers set expiration dates based on safety testing, and using a seat beyond this period can compromise its structural integrity in a crash. Some seats expire sooner if involved in a crash, or if parts are damaged or missing.
Where to Find Expiration Dates on Car Seats?
Most child car seat manufacturers display the exact date of expiry at the bottom, back of the seat, or stamped into the plastic car seat frame, making it easy to find the car seat expiration date. While some manufacturers only provide the date of manufacturing (DOM), this date can be found under or at the bottom of the seat. And since most of these car seats expire in 6 years, one can easily calculate the date of expiry by the given DOM. However, the best way to find out the correct date of expiry is to read the instruction manual or visit the company’s website. If you bought parts individually (like a car seat base separate from the seat), make sure to check the expiration date on each piece, since they might not expire at the same time. Some high-end car seat has a shelf life of 8 to 10 years; in that case, it is wise not to be hasty in retiring the seat before checking its expiry date from the makers.
How Frequently Should You Replace a Car Seat?
You should replace a car seat every 6 to 10 years, depending on the manufacturer’s expiration date, since materials like plastic and straps weaken over time. Additionally, replace it immediately after a moderate or severe crash, if it’s recalled, or if it shows cracks, fraying, or missing parts. However, expiration isn’t the only factor – seats must also be replaced when a child outgrows the height or weight limits and reaches the recommended age for the next seat stage (like transitioning from an infant seat to a convertible seat).
Do Car Seat Bases and Booster Seats Expire?
Car seat bases and booster seats don’t last forever—they have expiration dates just like car seats. Over time, sun exposure, temperature changes, and general wear can weaken the materials, making them less reliable in a crash. Most expire 6 to 10 years after manufacture, but always double-check the label (often hidden on the bottom or back). And if they’ve been in a crash or look worn out, don’t wait—swap them out early to keep your little one safe (2).
What to Do With Expired Car Seats?
Now that you are aware that your car seat has expired, you might just put it aside in your garage or the attic or throw it away on the street for the sanitation worker to collect. The first thing to do is to make sure that you mark that expired car seat in visible font as ‘expired’ or ‘unsafe’. Also, don’t donate that car seat to anyone; if it’s dangerous for your baby, it’s dangerous for anyone else’s too. Here’s what you can do with an expired car seat (3):
1. Trade-in Programs
Some retailers and wholesalers in association with car seat makers run a trade-in program where you can exchange the old and expired child car seats for shopping coupons, discounts on new seats, and gift vouchers. Trade-in programs are your best bet for that seat, and since you are not the only parent with an expired seat coated with dust, keeping your eyes open to the advertisement is your only chance to get a hand on those coupons.
2. Recycle
Exchange and trade-in programs get to reach their quotas in a short span of time as they get a huge response from parents. The only other viable option is to recycle your car seat; if your respective state and local departments of public work accept recycling of car seat plastic, then it is advised to recycle your expired car seat and follow the proper recycling procedure (4).
3. Disposal
Lastly, all you can do to get rid of that car seat is to dispose of it in the trash. Even when disposing of the car seat, you should follow the standard method. Remove all metal, fabric, foam, and padding from the seat before you throw it in the trash.
How to Properly Dispose of an Expired Car Seat?
Disposing car seats require some consideration. You can’t just leave an unsafe car seat on your trash on the road. To properly dispose of an expired car seat you need to follow simple steps: remove all extra padding and cushion from the seat; cut all the harness and straps; remove any other hard object or metal; lastly mark it unsafe so no one will use it after you leave it out.
FAQs
1. Does storing a car seat prolong its expiration date?
Even if unused, a car seat still expires based on its manufacture date—not usage. Heat, humidity, and plastic degradation occur over time, even in storage.
2. Do secondhand car seats expire sooner than new ones?
Yes—if the seat was exposed to sunlight, extreme temps, or improper cleaning, its materials may degrade faster. Always verify its full history and date of expiry for the car seat.
3. Why do some car seats expire in 6 years while others last 10?
Materials and testing vary by brand. Infant seats (used more frequently) often expire sooner, while boosters may last longer. Always check the label.
We hope we have answered your question – how long are car seats good for. A child’s car seat is a necessity, and a parent cannot ignore making this essential purchase. If you’re looking to buy a car seat after proper planning, it becomes evident that you know what you are buying and how long it’s going to last. Many parents, mostly first-timers, are unaware and can be found on the internet asking questions like ‘how many years are car seats good for’ or ‘I want to know if my car seat has expired’ or something else. To answer their queries, car seat bases expire, and they do need to be replaced or disposed of in a correct manner. If you have an expired car seat, the first thing you’d want to do is never to use it again. Secondly, you need to know how to treat the unusable car seat. And lastly, the most important thing to understand is that even if your expired car seat is in mint condition and shows no sign of any wear and tear, you still shouldn’t be using that car seat. There is a reason why there’s an expiry date on the product, and following it is the right parenting move.
References/Resources:
1. Cincinnati Children – Car Seat Expiration Dates – Have You Checked Yours?
2. NHTSA – Car Seat Use After a Crash
3. Safe Kids Worldwide – What to do with your old car seat
4. Vanderbilt University Medical Center – Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention Program
Also Read:
Types of Infant Car Seats and Other Restraints
The Perfect Car Seat & Restraints for Your Toddler
Know the Right Age for Your Baby to Face Forward in a Car Seat
Read more
Rear-Facing Car Seat For Your Child: Guidelines And Safety Tips
When it comes to car crashes or accidents, babies are always at a higher risk. The spine of babies is developing and their head is large for their body to hold. If your baby is riding in a car seat facing forward, there is a greater chance for the spinal cord to stretch and get damaged in a crash. However, an infant or older child in a rear-facing car seat is safely cradled when there is a crash on the frontal side of the car. The upper portion of the body-head, spine, and neck are protected by the back of the car seat. Research has shown that children or toddlers up to the age of 2 in a forward-facing car seat are more susceptible to being seriously injured in a frontal crash that children in a rear-facing car seat.
Safety is paramount-getting a child to be seated in a rear-facing seat is a safe bet. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend that both infants and toddlers must face backward for as long as possible. Safety seats, today are designed keeping in mind the height and weight limits of the seat. This has resulted in rear-facing seats being designed to be used for a longer time than before. Most kids are now expected to sit in rear-facing seats until they are 4 years old.
What Are Rear Facing Car Seats?
Rear-facing car seats are different from the ones that face forward. In a rear-facing car seat, your child’s frontier will be facing the rear side of the car. Their backs will be facing the frontal side of the car. The primary motive of a car seat is to absorb a few crash forces and spread the rest over a large part of the body. The seat belts distribute the force to the body, hip, and shoulders in adults. These are the strongest parts of the body. However, infants do not have such strong parts to withstand the jerk and force. A rear-facing car seat dissipates the crash forces to the head, entire back, and neck, thereby, reducing the stress on any one body part. An infant has a delicate head which is supported by a developing neck and the rear-facing car seat helps in such cases. The bones and ligaments of an infant are also not very well developed which makes them more prone to spinal cord injuries than adults and older children. A rear-facing car seat reduces this risk as it offers support to the child’s head.
The rear-facing car seat moves in a different way whilst a crash and gives your child more chances of survival and minimizes the chance of an injury. The forward-facing car seat, in contrast, cannot absorb the force and transfers most of it to the child- particularly to the head and neck.
Types of Rear-Facing Car Seats
If you are looking for rear-facing car seat recommendations, then the below guide would help you make a good choice. You want nothing but the best when it comes to your child and would not want to compromise on safety. There are three essential kinds- rear-facing-only ones, convertible ones, and an all-in-one. If a child reaches the maximum height and weight allowed by the manufacturer in a rear-facing-only car seat, they must be moved on to an all-in-one or a convertible.
1. Rear-facing-only car seats
Such seats are used for infants who weigh up to 30 pounds (depending on the model). They are small with carrying handles. They come with a base that can be left in more than one vehicle. It is recommended for use only while traveling and strictly not for sleeping or feeding.
2. Convertibles
As the name suggests they can be used as rear-facing car seats and converted to forward-facing seats as the child grows in age. These are heavier without a base or handle. They are fixed to the car. Most of them allow infants with a weight of up to 40-50 pounds and also greater height making it suitable for babies and toddlers bigger in size. The seats come with a 5-point harness that attaches at the shoulders, hips, and between the legs. It is suited only for use during travel.
3. All-in-one seats
This one serves three purposes- rear-facing seat; forward-facing seat and a belt-positioning booster. It does not come with a carrying handle or a base. They are bigger in size and can accommodate infants up to 40-50 pounds in weight and greater height. It makes it ideal for babies and toddlers and needs to be checked if it will fit your car.
Why Should Parents Choose Rear-Facing Seats For Their Child?
It is tempting to position your child in a forward-facing car seat, but experts recommend keeping them in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible. Keeping them in a rear-facing car seat up to the limits allowed reduces the risk of a traumatic injury and keeps your child safe. A few reasons to choose rear-facing seats for your child:
American Academy of Pediatrics recently recommended its guidelines in 2018 and classified rear-facing car seats as the safest way for children to ride.
Rear-facing car seats absorb the crash forces and support the head, spine, and neck in contrast to a forward-facing car seat where toddlers will be thrown forward resulting in spine and head injuries.
Most car-seat manufacturers design rear-facing car seats that let children with weight of up to 40-50 pounds and even taller infants to ride comfortably.
Making a sooner transition to a forward-facing car seat puts the child at greater risk and must be done only when ready.
According to research riding in a rear-facing car seat helps children make themselves more comfortable.
AAP Recommended Age to Keep Babies In Rear-Facing Seat
The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends keeping children in a rear-facing car seat until they reach the maximum weight or height for their convertible seat. This generally extends up to 3-5 years of age and is also dependent on the type of seat and the growth chart of the child. Over a quarter of states in the United States of America have updated their child passenger safety norms making it mandatory to have rear-facing car seats until the age of 2.
Rear-Facing Seat Safety Tips
You may use a rear-facing car seat for a 1-year-old, an infant or a 3-year-old. Either way, you would need to follow the following tips for a safer ride:
The harness in the rear-facing car seat must be placed in slots at or below the child’s shoulders.
The car seat must be installed tightly in the vehicle with the assistance of anchors or a locked seat belt. If it moves an inch from the belt path, then it is not tight enough.
If you use a convertible or all-in-one car seat the seat belt or lower anchor webbing must be channelled through the right belt path. Follow the instructions in the handbook.
The harness must be tight and snug (no large gaps when testing it over the shoulders) and the retainer clip must fall at the centre of the chest.
A car seat must not be placed on the front seat with an active passenger airbag in the front. If it inflates, then it will hit the rear of the car seat and injure the child’s head and may cause death.
Check the instructions and place the seat at the right angle to ensure the child’s head does not droop forward. Most seats have recline indicators.
Check the instruction handbook to see if the seat will come in contact with the backside of the seat in front.
FAQs
1. When Can I Switch My Child To A Forward-Facing Car Seat?
The AAP and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommend that infants and toddlers face backwards for as long as possible and most cases until they are years old.
2. How Should I Choose the Right Sized Rear Facing Car Seat?
The height and weight limits of the seat must be adhered to. You must check how your child fits in the seat. The head must be an inch below the top rim of the plastic shell. Most kids will be tall for the seats until they reach the weight limit.
3. What to Do If My Child’s Legs Seem too Long For a Rear-Facing Seat?
If children are sitting in an extended car seat, the legroom is limited. A toddler’s legs will be bent or crossed making parents worry about their comfort. But experts say that if the toddler is within the limits of weight and height prescribed, then they are safer and more comfortable.
4. Should I Turn My Baby’s Safety Seat Forward When She Outgrows an Infant Seat?
No, if your child outgrows an infant seat then you will need a new car seat. Replace a rear-facing-only car seat with a convertible seat. Wait until they reach the maximum weight for a rear-facing position and until they are 2 years old to move it to a forward-facing position. A three-in-one seat that serves as rear-facing, forward-facing, and a booster is ideal if your car can accommodate it.
5. Will My Child Be Safe In A Rear-End Car Crash?
Studies have tested several rear-facing car seats and found that when used the right way they absorb the crash forces from a rear-end, thereby protecting the child’s body parts. Rear-end collisions tend to be minor in comparison to frontal ones and have minor impacts.
Parents must never be in a rush to move kids to the next type of seat. The progression must be gradual and the safety of the child must be paramount. Making a transition is a difficult decision which could prove to be a step down than a step up. It must be a carefully thought and weighed process and in tandem with safety guidelines.
Also Read:
Car Safety Guidelines For Baby
Car Seat & Restraints for Toddler
Read more
Impact of Television (TV) on Children – Positive and Negative Effects
Television is an important part of every child’s life. From witnessing the magic of superheroes to tuning into horror weekends, children go through an immersive experience through television and live in the bubble of their own world. Sometimes, this bubble becomes a cause for concern, depending on the types of shows being watched.
Television builds character and personality and even has the power to change attitudes and perspectives towards life. Taking extra care will ensure that your child enjoys TV shows without being exposed to the ill-effects of watching TV.
Video: Positive and Negative Effects of Television on Children
What Role Does Television Play in a Child’s Life?
If your child is watching crime dramas or horror flicks and has nightmares during bedtime, then you can be sure that something is wrong with his television habits. A considerable portion of children’s time is spent in front of the TV, and it definitely shapes their personality and attitude. The right kind of television programs imbue social and environmental awareness in kids and even promote social, emotional, and cognitive development holistically. Ensuring a healthy balance of TV time and play/study is important to their development since you don’t want them to turn into couch potatoes and skip healthy social and physical activities.
Positive Effects of Television on Kids
Some of the many advantages of television for children are:
1. Entertainment
From Sesame Street to Dora the Explorer and Arthur, kids’ entertainment shows teach children a plethora of skills ranging from handling emotional trauma, interacting with peers, navigating through tough situations, and stimulating their imaginations through interactive quizzes and thinking patterns. Entertainment shows keep your kids engaged, teach them new skills, and let them have fun – all in one package!
2. Education
Educational shows inspire kids to take action and engage in productive behaviours. If your child doesn’t like traditional teaching methods, then educational programs can be a great way to make him learn while having fun. Educational channels like Wild Kratts, Sid the Science Kid, Hanya Kamu, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse teach kids problem-solving and provide them with a strong foundation in mental math and analytic thinking.
3. Sports
Watching sports shows such as football, cricket, and volleyball can be a great way to generate interest in outdoor activities. Sports shows encourage kids to be active and healthy, thus enabling them to engage in physical behaviours which, down the line, bring emotional and physical well-being.
4. Culture Fever
Does your kid enjoy exploring and travelling? Introduce them to the wonders of the world through travel and cultural shows. Learning about other cultures will enhance social learning and development skills, encouraging your child to become a holistic thinker and interact with international peers in a friendly fashion.
5. Creativity
From cooking, baking, arts and crafts to music and theatre, creativity is the cornerstone of TV shows. Art channels and shows involving music composing, drawing, and painting stimulate the mind and encourage children to answer their inner calling.
6. Improved Academic Performance
When TV is consumed in a responsible way, emotional and mental well-being follows. This leads to improved academic performance. According to researchers, children who watch informative and educational shows have been proven to outperform peers on multiple standardized tests and even perform at peak levels through middle and high school.
7. Healthy Stress Relief
TV shows provide a healthy emotional outlet for kids who go through stress in school or outdoor environments. A healthy dose of TV can do wonders for a child’s mood and emotional problems and protect him from emotional stress which can impact him negatively.
8. Learn About Technology and Latest Trends
With wide access to an ocean of content on TV, children pick up tools and techniques related to using the latest technologies and stay up-to-date with social trends. Kids become more knowledgeable and achieve informational enlightenment through the TV.
9. Language and Emotional Skills
If your child is learning a new language or mimicking speech patterns, you can assist him to understand vocabulary and sentence formation nuances through language programs and movies. Further, positive TV shows reinforce healthy emotional behaviours and teach kids social skills that are crucial to their success.
10. Keeps Them Engaged
If your child is constantly jumping around the house and can’t keep quiet for a single minute, letting him watch TV to relieve boredom is a creative solution. This will keep him engaged without harming his cognitive development. However, you will need to ensure that this is practised only occasionally and does not become a habit.
11. Encourages Social Participation
Kids who watch characters perform productively and being their best on TV try to mimic those behaviours in real life. This applies to competitive tasks and events as well. For example, if their favourite TV character is performing well in exams and participates in sports and social events, your kids will mimic those behaviours as well, thus helping with their development.
12. Develops Personality and Fosters Independent Thinking
TV shows foster independent thinking skills and teach kids to think outside the box. These skills are vital in a world that puts focus on creativity and thinking from different perspectives.
13. Inspiration
TV shows can inspire kids and encourage them to try new things. For example, a TV program about creativity show can inspire your child to try something new with clay, paints, or paper.
Negative Effects of Television on Kids
Some of the many disadvantages of television for children are:
1. Steals Time
Children who spend too much time in front of the television may miss out on life’s opportunities. If your child is spending too much time watching TV, he may lose precious time which could have been spent on more productive tasks like mingling with friends, working on homework, playing outside and other similar activities.
2. Lack of Language and Social Skills
This might seem contradictory to the positive effects of TV mentioned earlier, but it applies mainly to children under the age of two years. Babies’ brains are in the developmental stages before the age of two. This is when the brain rewires and fosters social and emotional learning. The TV does not smile, speak, or interact with your child psychologically on a personal level. This affects the child’s mental state since he is vulnerable at this point in life. Even in later years, spending too much time watching TV can limit your child’s social interaction, thus affecting language and social skills in the long run.
3. Kills Creativity and Imagination
If your child spends too much time on TV instead of going outside and exploring the real world, he will not be able to develop a strong imagination. Since ideas are presented in front of the screen, children who watch TV excessively cannot stimulate their minds or come up with fresh ideas on their own, thus passively consuming and not actively creating.
4. Lack of Focus
Kids who spend more than 2 to 3 hours in front of the screen on a daily basis often suffer from a lack of focus in classroom environments. Such kids may also have a greater likelihood of being diagnosed with ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyper Activity Disorder). This lack of focus and low attention span bleeds into other domains besides academics, such as sports. The child may be unwilling to participate in creative and mentally calming activities like crafts as well.
5. Unproductive
Productivity is all about reaching new heights in life. If your child is constantly watching TV and not achieving milestones in their academic, social, or emotional lives, all that time spent in front of the screen is simply time wasted.
6. Obesity
Kids who watch too much TV are at the risk of developing obesity and other health disorders. It’s not uncommon to find young kids transitioning into teenage couch potatoes during their high school when they watch TV excessively.
7. Heart and Eye Health Risks
Kids who watch too much TV are at the risk of developing lazy eye syndrome. In this condition, the child experiences blurry or reduced vision that is not correctable by glasses or lenses. TV addiction also promotes a lack of exercise and a sedentary lifestyle, both of which impact the heart and the brain. This can eventually lead to cardiovascular problems and narrow arteries.
8. Negative Behaviour
According to research, watching too much TV can alter the brain structure and promote negative behaviour – especially violence and aggression. Kids who watch shows containing content inappropriate for minors are at a higher risk of this problem.
9. Affects Self-Image
TV shows exaggerate reality and provide a distorted view of the world. Shows that reveal picture-perfect lives and too-good-to-be-true scenarios may make kids feel inadequate.
10. Emotional Changes
Kids who are exposed to shows highlighting sex, drugs, and alcohol abuse are vulnerable to emotional changes. Since they are too young to understand many of these issues, they may get an altered view of reality and be influenced psychologically.
11. Poor Academic Performance
Spending a lot of time watching TV may result in a lack of participation in other activities. Kids sometimes skip school and homework because of TV, and this adversely affects their academic performance.
12. Causes Learning Problems
Learning problems due to excess TV time range from passive listening and underdeveloped listening skills to a lack of fine motor and creative skills. This occurs when kids do not engage in physically and mentally stimulating activities. Kids who develop ADHD by watching too much TV lack the ability to concentrate and focus during studies.
13. Unhealthy Eating Habits
While watching TV, there is a sense of natural desire to munch on something, and often, these happen to be junk food items like chips or sodas, resulting in bad eating habits in future.
What Can Parents Do to Protect Their Child From the Bad Effects of Television?
Parents can:
Limit the number of hours their child spends in front of the TV.
Ensure that their child is watching quality TV shows as opposed to inappropriate ones.
Watch TV with their child so that they are sure that the content being consumed is informational, educational, and interactive. This can also foster a bond between the parent and child.
Keep the TV set away from the bedroom and turn off the TV at the end of the show.
Help develop a healthy relationship between TV time and complete tasks.
Try not to make the rules too strict, as that can develop a negative relationship between the child and TV.
Should Babies and Toddlers Watch TV?
It is recommended that babies and toddlers below the age of two years avoid watching TV since their brains are developing and vulnerable. They are learning a lot of emotional and social skills, so this is the time to interact with them, care for their emotional needs, and encourage them to read, write, and draw. A major chunk of cognitive development occurs during this stage, which is why it is best that the TV is kept away from babies and toddlers younger than two years.
FAQs
1. How Does Television Influence Children’s Attitudes Towards Gender Roles?
TV shows can hugely influence children’s understanding of gender roles, as what they watch shapes their beliefs. For example, if they see a man as a doctor and a woman as a nurse, they may take it as that only males can be doctors and only females can be nurses.
2. What Are Some Ways Television Can Be Used to Facilitate Social Interaction in Kids?
If you want to facilitate social interaction in kids via TV, you and other family members should watch it along with your child and help them understand the importance of socially interacting with each other. You all can discuss what you are watching on TV.
Watching TV is an activity best done in moderation. By ensuring that your child watches quality programmes and spends his time productively, you will ensure his proper growth and development. Watching TV is a daily part of life, and if integrated with care, your child can end up learning from it!
Also Read:
Tricks To Break TV, Computer and Phone Addiction in Kids
Kid-Friendly TV Channels That Parents Should Know About
Side Effects of Watching TV While Eating on You & Your Child
Read more
How to Keep Your Bathroom Safe for Your Child
For children, bathrooms are meant to be fun places to enjoy a bath. Unfortunately, it has been estimated that 90 children die every year due to bathroom hazards like drowning in the bathtub- just 3 inches extra of water is enough to submerge a child. Parents sometimes are busy doing other chores or just fail to notice before it’s too late. Therefore, let’s talk about the bathroom safety of your child.
Bathroom Safety Tips for Your Child’s Protection
The following safety tips and precautions can keep your child protected in the bathroom:
1. Never Leave Your Child Alone in the Bathtub
The running water can make the tub overflow, thus seriously harming your child. Instead of letting your attention drift away, make sure you never leave your child alone in the bathroom, especially if he knows how to work the faucets.
2. Install Scald-Guards In Faucets
Death by scalding is another possibility besides drowning. To make sure the water temperature isn’t too high, don’t crank the geyser beyond 120 degree F. Additionally, install scald-guards in faucets since these monitor the temperature of the water and let you know if it’s too hot for your child.
3. Say Yes to Showers
If you’re unsure that your child is ready for the bathtub yet, try showering instead. There’s no drowning, everybody gets cleaned up, and it’s a win-win for both.
4. Drain Out Excess Water
You might have mastered the art of bathing your kids in the bathtub, but the floor isn’t as friendly once you’re done bathing your child, especially if he enjoys splashing around. Puddles of water on the floor lead to slips, falls and unexpected accidents. Make sure to mop out any remaining water and dry the floor before he gets out of the tub.
5. Use A Baby Gate
Children like to do things when adults aren’t watching, like going to the bathroom to do some splashing. Installing baby gates near toilet doors as bathroom safety are thus good for your child. That way, he can’t enter, which means less worrying for you.
6. Use Cushioned Covers on Faucets
Steel water faucets are dangerous as they have sharp edges. There’s also a risk of your baby bumping and hitting his head on hard surfaces. Cushioned covers absorb the shock and minimise injury in the bathtub.
7. Seal the Toilet Lids Shut
Babies and toddlers may slip and fall through the toilet lid while prancing around. Use a toilet lid lock or device to seal it during times you leave your child unattended.
8. Invest in High-Rise Shelves and Cabinets
Your shampoos and razor blades are like treasure hunting moments for your child. Looking at the beautiful pictures and sleek designs, he may be tempted to give those a try, or drink your cleaning products out of curiosity. You don’t want that, and the best way to prevent it is by keeping them tucked away from his reach on high wall shelves and cabinets.
9. Unplug the Electronics
Most of us have curling irons and blow dryers in our bathrooms. When you leave them plugged in and turn away for a moment, your child falls at risk of being severely injured by them. The solution is to unplug and turn off these devices whenever you’re with your child in the bathroom.
10. Pay Attention at All Times
Prevention is better than cure, and the best way to pay heed to this is by constantly keeping a watch. Make sure there are no choking hazards in the bathtub, and teach your child against gulping soapy water when bathing.
Additional Bath Time Safety Tips for Infants and Kids
For your child’s benefit, here are some additional bath time safety tips:
Keep cosmetics, soaps, shampoos, and medicines out of reach. Install safety locks in cabinets as extra measures.
Ask an electrician to set up ground-fault circuit interrupters for shutting down electrical appliances in an instant when they fall into the bathtub, in order to prevent injuries.
Don’t keep the water level beyond 2 to 3 inches for babies and young toddlers in the tub.
Use a kitchen sink to bathe your infant instead of a bathtub for additional safety.
Hold your baby and provide physical support while bathing to prevent slips/falls.
Baby proof the floor and cabinets, always.
Do not ever leave your baby alone in the bathroom.
Set up the bathroom doors in a way they can be unlocked from outside in case your child locks himself in.
How to Prevent Your Child from Drowning in the Bathtub?
Never leave your child beyond your arm’s reach before, during, and after bathing as a rule of thumb. Also, never leave them alone while bathing.
Following these suggestion will help keep your child safe. As a parent, remember to watch him like a hawk during bath times since anything could go wrong in an instant.
Also Read: Safety Rules at School for Young Kids
Read more
Baby Chewed or Swallowed Battery? – What You Can Do
Children who are in the teething phase are curious creatures who cannot differentiate between right and wrong, toxic and non-toxic. With that said, chewing on a battery accidentally can have hazardous or life-threatening implications. Here’s what you need to know about what to do if your kid ends up chewing or swallowing a battery.
How Dangerous is Chewing or Swallowing Batteries for Your Baby?
Chewing or swallowing a battery is extremely dangerous! Here are some of the possible implications your baby may face if she does that-
1. Internal Bleeding
Batteries contain chemicals like zinc, mercury and lithium which are harmful to the human body when ingested. These may cause internal bleeding and damage the organs.
2. Ruptures the Food Pipe
If the battery gets stuck in the food pipe when swallowed up, the pressure exerted leads to damage or rupture of the food pipe.
Why Do Children Chew or Swallow on Batteries?
Children chew on or swallow batteries because it’s human nature. Children are curious by nature. They’re at an age where they can’t label their surroundings or understand the differences between what’s toxic or non-toxic. A piece of glass, metal, plastic, or food lying around – all these look the same to them. And when they are in the teething phase, the urge to chew becomes simply irresistible.
How to know if your child swallowed a battery? Just read our list of signs and symptoms below.
How to Tell If Your Baby Has Ingested a Battery?
If your baby has swallowed a battery, these are the symptoms and signs you need to watch out for:
Pain in the abdomen
Vomiting
Gagging
Drooling often and frequently
Stools that look dark and bloody
Difficulty breathing
Choking
Sore throat
Fever
What Can Parents Do If Their Baby Has Swallowed a Battery?
If your baby has swallowed a battery, here’s what you can do.
Give her honey. The nutrients in honey have the ability to neutralize the effects of harsh chemicals leaked out by the batteries. Honey works as a protective barrier and may neutralize the damage caused to your child’s internal organs. If she has swallowed a battery, you can feed her a spoonful of honey every five to ten minutes. Keep doing this until you get her to the hospital for emergency medical attention.
If your child has swallowed a battery, remember that you have just two hours to act before the chemicals in them cause serious damage. Take her to the hospital immediately and don’t delay.
If you’ve got any batteries lying around the house, keep them away somewhere, preferably where your child cannot reach them. If there any toys that use batteries, remove those from them.
Discard any old batteries from your home. Those are just as dangerous as the new ones and lithium battery child death does happen.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Here’s what you need to do if your child has swallowed a watch battery or any other kind.
1. Take Her to the Hospital
Don’t delay it because, like we mentioned before, you have a two-hour window before things turn worse.
2. Get an X-ray Done
A chest and abdominal X-ray are most preferred. This will reveal whether the battery is lodged somewhere and let you know the extent of the damage.
3. Your Child May be Hospitalized for a While
If the damage is already underway, doctors may advise hospitalizing your child for at least two to three days. This will be the time needed for treatment to prevent further perforation or rupture to the organs from those chemicals.
4. For Cases of Lodging
If the battery is stuck in your child’s food pipe, then doctors will try to surgically remove it via instrumentation endoscopy. In this case, your child will be administered anaesthesia and taken to the operating room.
5. Oral Medications
Your child will also be given oral medications to clear up the lining and the dosage/type will depend on the doctor’s advice or prescription.
Other Important Tips and Guidelines
Here are some important tips and guidelines with regard to safety, prevention, and other aspects.
The battery has to be removed as soon as it is ingested. The size of the battery and the symptoms your baby shows aren’t reliable indicators for making out where it’s lodged. That’s why immediate medical attention and imaging are needed.
If your child is under 12 years old, seek immediate medical treatment. This is because her organs are developing and still very sensitive to the chemicals in these batteries. That also means she’s way more susceptible to damage from the electrochemical composition of these batteries.
When buying toys, check if the battery compartment is required to be opened using a screwdriver. If the compartment is loose or can be easily removed with fingers, it’s not a toy worth buying for your child.
The best step towards prevention is to remove all batteries from your child’s reach. Don’t keep any batteries in the house or in places where your child can access them.
If you have to keep batteries in the house, lock them away in shelves or cabinets which are at a height.
If you don’t have honey lying in the house for feeding to your kid after she has ingested a button battery, try using lemon juice. It has alkalizing properties and works just as well.
Saving your child is not too late after she’s ingested a button battery. Take her to the hospital and do the best you can using our preventive and safety measures. You might just make it in time and save your child’s life.
Also Read:
How to Stop Your Baby From Putting Everything in His Mouth
Ways to Keep Your Baby Safe and Protected
Tips to Buy Safe Toys for Babies
Read more
Ingrown Toenail in Children – Causes, Symptoms & Remedies
If your child’s toe looks all red and swollen, it may be because of an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails commonly occur in children. If your child is wearing a pair of tight socks and tight shoes, then he may have ingrown toenails.
In some cases, it is an inherited tendency. Sometimes, an ingrown toenail can cut through the skin and may lead to various infections. Certain home remedies can prove beneficial in fixing the disorder, provided you take action fast.
What is Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail happens when a toenail grows abnormally or when the corner or edge of the toenail starts curving inwards into toe’s soft skin which can trigger pain and infection due to all the bacteria that typically dwells around in and around the feet. The toe may appear red, swollen, and tender particularly around one of its corners, generally the big toe.
Causes of Ingrown Toenail in Children
Some of the causes of ingrown toenails in children include:
1. Cutting Nails Inappropriately
The most common cause of ingrown toenail is trimming nails too short. When a nail is cut too short, the surrounding skin may cover the ends of the nail, as a result, the nail may grow back in the skin. Nails which are torn instead of cut may also become ingrown as they lack defined corners. Further nails that may have been cut in a rounded form than straight across can become a reason for them to break into the soft toe skin.
2. Ill-fitting Shoes
Tight shoes are another probable cause of an ingrown toenail. If your child’s feet are growing fast and he wears the same old shoes, then he may have an ingrown toenail. A pair of ill-fitting shoes can thrust the soft skin on the corners of the nail to move over the nail, driving the nail to develop into it.
3. Toe Injuries
If your child keeps stubbing his toes frequently, then he may have ingrown toenails. Also, if a baby or toddler loses his toe due to some injury, the new nail may grow unhealthily than a prevailing one.
4. Stress on the Toe
Stressing the toe by kicking a football over and over can even result in ingrown toenails. Children who indulge in plenty of physical sports have higher chances of developing ingrown toenails because of persistent torment to the toes.
5. Heredity
If your child has ingrown toenails without any possible reason, then it may be because of heredity. Some people are born with oddly curved nails which place them at an increased risk of developing this illness often.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Common symptoms of ingrown toenails are mentioned below.
A painful toe
Swelling around the affected area
Redness around the edge of the nail
Pus formation or liquid discharge
Foul odour
A warm sensation
Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenails
If your child’s toenail is not infected, you can treat it with home remedies. You can try the following remedies for ingrown toenails:
Soak your child’s affected foot in warm, soapy water to reduce swelling and pain. Let him immerse his foot in this solution twice a day for about 20 minutes.
While the affected foot is in the water, massage the inflamed portion of the cuticle lightly away from the nail.
Apply an antibiotic ointment on the affected area to provide relief from inflammation and to prevent infection. Do this 2 to 3 times daily for a week.
You can dip a cotton bud in olive oil and use it to propel the skin gently away from the ingrown nail.
Tips to Prevent Ingrown Toenails in Your Child
Some useful tips to help avert the problem of ingrown toenails in children are given below.
Check your kid’s toenails from time to time like after baths to be able to detect any signs of an ingrown toenail.
Make sure you trim your child’s toenails properly; they should be in straight line and not too short.
Ensure that your child wears a pair of shoes that fit him perfectly. Also, take note of the shoe width along with the correct length.
Educate your child about how to maintain good foot hygiene. Ask him to keep his feet dry. Changing socks frequently is essential if your kid’s feet are prone to excessive sweating.
Refrain from digging out the nail or ripping it out as it can heighten the incidence of ingrown toenails.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you have tried the above remedies but they are not working, it is time to consult a doctor. You may want to consult a paediatrician if your baby has the problem of ingrown toenails. In case your baby has ingrown toenails, look for the following signs:
Bleeding
Oozing of pus or any discharge
Bad smell
Extreme pain
Your doctor based on the condition of your child’s foot may propose a minor surgery wherein he may be required to cut off the corner of the affected nail so that the infected tissue can heal easily. The doctor may also suggest a course of antibiotics.
FAQs
Some frequently asked questions regarding ingrown toenails are given below:
1. How Long Will Ingrown Toenail Last?
It usually depends on the severity of the case. Sometimes, a child may have ingrown toenail for several weeks. However, if there is no visible infection, home remedies may exhibit a significant improvement in the condition within a few days.
2. Will the Ingrown Toenail Come Back?
If you do not take proper care of toddler ingrown toenail, your child may face this problem again. The same stimuli that may have activated an early ingrown toenail can cause the condition to return.
If your child has an ingrown toenail, he must be in excruciating pain. Unfortunately, an ingrown toenail is a common condition in kids and can make playing, running, and even putting on shoes difficult for him. This condition can linger on for weeks and may get infected if not cared for properly.
Also Read:
Bed Bug Bites on Infants and Kids
Home Remedies for Runny Nose in Infants and Children
German Measles in Babies and Children
Read more
Sort By
Latest
Most Popular
Trending
Please select atleast one Filter