Parenting Part 2

The Art of Parenting: Building Strong Families Together

Parenting – Part In this episode, Ms. Swati Salunke speaks about two more concerns, i.e. Safety and discipline for children. Discipline word all adults speak and try to inculcate in their – young children. Discipline is a way of life, some say it is required, some say the child will pick up, and some say any way the child will learn later on, what is the point in disciplining now?

There is a very thin line between Strictness and Discipline. As counselors, we believe there are certain disciplines to be imbibed right from childhood. Nothing major something, very simple as, sleeping habits and eating habits.

To start with- what, do kids at that age require? In the initial stage, a child requires 12-15 hours of sleep, sometimes even 18 hours, later on, it goes on reducing. During the child’s academic years, Parents need to ensure that the child sleeps for eight to nine hours. There has to be a sleeping discipline, at 9:00 pm- lights out, means lights out. Developing a sleeping pattern or habit among children is very useful, even in the later stages when the academic calendar begins. Along with sleeping time, eating habit is important too.

Parents complain that their child has food only when the cartoon network is on, or certain TV serial is on, or maybe some music. We hear from parents that their child likes fruits or ice-creams or sandwiches and it goes on. Mothers end up a lot talking about the eating patterns. Surprisingly instead of home food, more outside food is given at this age, i.e. First five to seven years. Home food makes a lot of difference in the child’s nutrition intake.

It’s seen that parents are giving their children aerated drinks and different kinds of junk food while children are being taught that its junk food and they are not supposed to eat it. The most surprising thing to hear is “kya karein Mam, kam se kam ye kha leta toh hey”, but what you are giving your child, is it healthy? Is it worth it? You need to stop it at that very time.

A simple home food really gives nutrition to your child. Certain supplements can be given if felt after consulting the Nutritionist as well as the Paediatricians. Do not bring in any haphazard diet control or restrictions. Introducing your child to various flavors is a must, be it vegetarian or non-vegetarian spicy or not spicy, or sweet or sour, everything is acceptable. But from where and how you are giving or how it’s cooked has to be checked. Sometimes as working parents or with other responsibilities, it may just go off your head. The more careful you are choosing what the child eats or not, the more beneficial, for the child’s health, as well as your health in the future.

Hope the cues are taken to make relevant changes in the diet or sleeping pattern. Good sleep for the child at a certain age starts from 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. onwards. Do not take your child to late-night parties or events. You can have your own late nights but ensure your child is safe and has a sound sleep at home. In next episode will talk about Managing Tantrums and Misbehaviours and Learning.

Frequently Asked Questions For Parenting:

1. What is parenting?

Parenting is the process of raising and nurturing children from infancy to adulthood. It involves providing love, care, guidance, and support to help children grow and develop.

2. What are the key responsibilities of parents?

Parents are responsible for meeting their children’s basic needs, such as food, shelter, and safety, as well as providing emotional support, education, discipline, and helping them develop essential life skills.

3. How can I establish a strong bond with my child?

Building a strong parent-child bond involves spending quality time together, active listening, showing affection, and providing a secure and loving environment.

4. What is positive discipline, and how can I implement it?

Positive discipline involves setting clear expectations, using effective communication, and using consequences that teach rather than punish. It promotes learning and understanding rather than fear.

5. How can I manage my child’s screen time and technology use?

Managing screen time involves setting limits, monitoring content, and promoting a healthy balance between screen activities and physical activities or face-to-face interactions.

6. What strategies can I use to encourage healthy eating habits in my child?

Encouraging healthy eating involves offering a variety of nutritious foods, modeling good eating habits, involving children in meal preparation, and creating a positive mealtime environment.

7. How can I support my child’s education and academic success?

Supporting education includes creating a conducive learning environment at home, helping with homework, communicating with teachers, and encouraging a love for learning.

8. How do I handle challenging behavior in my child?

Addressing challenging behavior requires understanding the underlying causes, setting consistent boundaries, using positive reinforcement, and seeking professional help when needed.

9. What is the importance of self-care for parents?

Self-care is essential for parents to recharge, reduce stress, and maintain physical and emotional well-being. It enables parents to be more effective caregivers.

10. How can I strike a balance between work and family life?

Balancing work and family life involves setting priorities, managing time effectively, and seeking support from family, friends, or childcare services.

11. What are age-appropriate activities for my child’s development?

Age-appropriate activities vary by age and can include play, reading, arts and crafts, sports, and educational games that stimulate cognitive, physical, and social development.

12. How can I communicate with my child effectively?

Effective communication with children involves active listening, using age-appropriate language, being patient, and encouraging open and honest dialogue.