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Head Lice in a Baby or Child: How to Get Rid of Them?
Lice are parasites. These small insects live on your scalp and suck blood to survive. Their size ranges from 1 mm to 3 mm, meaning they are very difficult to see.
Each louse, takes around 6-14 days to become fully grown. In this period the female mates and lays eggs. The eggs hatch after a period of one week to ten days. The shells of the eggs stay stuck to the shaft of your hair. The average lifespan of a louse is 21 days while a female louse lays up to 56 eggs in a single mating. The eggs are yellowish-white in color and one may confuse them with dandruff. However, unlike dandruff, the eggs stay stuck to your hair and are difficult to remove.
Head lice do not cause any disease, but having them is irritating. Your baby or child will experience intense itching and this, in turn, will make her restless. She may not be able to sleep in peace as well. Apart from that, your child may face a boycott at her day-care or school since having lice is considered to be a sign of poor hygiene. Also close contact with an affected person can lead to a healthy person getting the infection themself.
Most people think that lack of hygiene and poverty are the reasons for lice infestation. This is nothing but a myth. Head-lice like both clean and dirty hair. They love to settle down in all kinds of hair, irrespective of length and condition. You can find head lice in the hair of even the people of the wealthiest communities. If your child or baby has lice, it is not because she is dirty. Chances are high that she has got them from another infected individual, who can be your relative, neighbour, or someone in your child's play school, or even her older sibling!
Video: Head Lice in Babies and Children - Causes, Signs and Remedies
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7xKPdTBVJk
Head Lice Symptoms in a Baby or Child
The most common symptom of head lice is itching. Lice bite onto the scalp to suck blood and this causes allergic reactions. Your child might not start itching from day one. You may notice this symptom after six weeks of infestation.
The other symptoms that you can be on the lookout for are:
Sores on your child's head that develop due to intensive scratching
Your child complaining about the feeling of something walking on her scalp
Irritability and difficulty in sleeping
Red bumps on your little one's head, shoulder, and neck
Small white eggs in her hair
Live adult lice present on her hair or scalp
Causes of Head Lice
Having head lice is not uncommon and more so, if your child has started going to school. You probably had lice yourself when you were small!
One in every five children suffers from head lice infestation at least once in their childood. Head lice spread from head to head contact and so your child can easily get them while playing with another child who has head lice. It can transfer from adults while they are cuddling your baby or hugging your child.
Remember, head lice do not spread from infested bedding, clothing, hats, or towels. So, there is no need to sterilize these things.
Head Lice Treatment for babies
There are different ways to get rid of head lice. Anti-lice shampoos and oils are available that you can use on your child to get rid of the lice and the eggs too. You can also use a lice-comb; make sure you do it on a regular basis till all lice and eggs are removed from your child's hair and head. If your child is already infested with head lice, a combination of both will give the desired results.
If you are using an anti-lice shampoo, the application will depend on the brand. Make sure to read the label carefully and use the product as frequently as suggested. In most cases, you will need to apply the shampoo twice with a seven days gap in between to ensure all the live adult lice and the newly hatched ones are gone. You might have to leave the shampoo on your child's hair for 10-12 minutes before washing it off, though this varies from one brand to another. Rinse the hair well and comb her hair with a licve comb while it is wet to remove all the dead lice.
It is best to consult your pediatrician to know which brand of anti-lice shampoo will be suitable for your child. The doctor will recommend the right brand depending on your child's age and her medical condition, also taking into consideration other health risks and factors (like asthma) if any. The doctor might tell you about the brands that you need to avoid. Also, if you're breastfeeding or pregnant, some shampoos might not be safe for you to touch.
Sometimes, lice are resistant to a certain chemical. In such cases, a particular shampoo will not work and you will have to look for some other brands. Make sure not to use any of these shampoos more than thrice as, being heavily medicated, they come with a lot of chemicals. This means, if all the brands fail, you will have to wait for a while before you could try a stronger one. Don't forget to check with the paediatrician, if you are thinking of switching brands.
Lice medicines that you can apply on your child's hair and scalp are also available.
Home Remedies to Treat Lice in Baby or Child
If you want to stay away from chemicals, you can use the following as an effective head lice treatment for babies and children:
Wash your child's hair and scalp with ordinary shampoo. Then massage a generous amount of oil or hair conditioner. (If you have an infant, wet her hair with warm water and apply just conditioner).
Detangle her hair with a wide-tooth comb and then comb her hair with the lice-comb. Part her hair into as many sections as possible and make sure you comb all the sections properly. Start combing from scalp to the tip of the hair. Conditioner-coated as well as wet lice and eggs will stay still and hence will easily get caught while you are combing. Wash the comb properly before you start combing another section. If not, use a cloth to wipe it clean and then continue combing.
Once you have finished combing all the sections, rinse her head again. Use the same procedure to get rid of any remaining lice.
Try weaving a piece of thread in the lice-comb and using it to comb your child's hair. This will help in eliminating the small lice as well. For the remaining, you will have to use your hands.
Make your child sit on a piece of a newspaper while you are combing her hair. If you see any lice falling on the paper, flush them down the toilet or the drain.
Repeat this procedure 4 times leaving a gap of three days in between two sessions. This will eliminate all lice in your child's hair and your child will be lice-free within 17 days.
This is how to get rid of lice at home. You can also use an electronic comb that works by electrocuting the lice. Essential oils and shampoos with neem as a constituent can also help in getting rid of lice. Olive oil, baby oil, and mayonnaise have also been used by many mothers.
Shaving off your child's hair is another option that you have. This may seem drastic but it is an effective method, especially for a severe lice infestation.
How to Prevent Head Lice in Young Children?
There is very little that you can do to prevent head lice in children. All you can do is warn her against brushing her head with other children. Also, you will have to examine her scalp on a regular basis. This will prevent the lice from increase in numbers as you will be able to nip the problem in the bud. Start treating your child the moment you see a single louse.
Do you Need to Keep Your Child Away from School or Nursery?
This cannot ever be a solution as you cannot compromise on your child's education. Make sure to examine her scalp regularly and treat infestation actively. Newly-hatched eggs stay on the scalp for around six days and it is only the adults that move from one head to the other. You can remove the newly-hatched eggs by using a lice-comb before they can move on.
Many schools and creches examine their student's heads from time to time. If your child has lice, the school will let you know. However, make sure you do your regular examinations as well.
Conclusion
Lice are common in babies and children, especially when they start school. Getting rid of them and keeping your child’s hair free of these pests requires a concerted effort, and may take some time. Regular checking of your child’s scalp is sure to help identify and resolve the issue before it escalates.
Also Read: Home Remedies for Head Lice in Children Read more
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Ectopic Pregnancy - Reasons, Symptoms and treatment
A pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences for a woman. The gift of being a mother is overwhelming and much cherished by you and your partner. However, not all pregnancies turn out to be normal, and some must be terminated because they cannot be carried to fruition. One such type of pregnancy is an ectopic pregnancy. Almost 2% of the pregnancies in the world are ectopic and health risks to the mother.
An ectopic pregnancy can initially look like a normal one, but as it progresses, it can be painful and will need to be terminated.
Video: Ectopic Pregnancy - Reasons, Symptoms and Treatment
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AbFwFjhiWg
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
In a conventional pregnancy, the sperm and egg fertilise in the fallopian tube and are implanted in the spongy endometrial lining in the uterus. This lining provides all the nutrients necessary for the egg.
In an ectopic pregnancy, however, the fertilised egg is implanted outside the uterus. An ectopic pregnancy is more dangerous than it sounds as it could prove to be fatal for the mother. Thus, it is of extreme importance that you keep an eye out for any odd symptoms in the initial phase of your pregnancy and consult your doctor immediately if you feel something is amiss.
How does ectopic pregnancy happen?
As explained earlier, a normal pregnancy happens when the sperm swims up to the fallopian tube for fertilisation, and the fertilised egg is implanted in the inner lining of the uterus. However, if the fallopian tube is damaged or too narrow, it can cause the egg to implant in a different location. The implantation can happen just outside the fallopian tubes, abdominal space, ovary, or even the cervix. In such a case, the egg does not mature as it should, and the baby does not develop.
How common is an ectopic pregnancy?
According to a study in the UK, 1 in every 85 pregnancies is an ectopic pregnancy. This roughly adds up to 12000 ectopic pregnancies in a year.
Another study shows that only 50% of the affected women displayed all the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy hence making it extra difficult to identify it.
Causes of ectopic pregnancy:
The exact reason for an ectopic pregnancy can be unclear on a case to case basis but it can be credited to anything that causes stress or an imbalance to your uterus, such as surgery or pelvic inflammatory diseases. One common reason is a damaged fallopian tube that can prevent the transportation of a fertilised egg to the uterus and cause it to get implanted in the fallopian tube itself.
What are the risk factors for ectopic pregnancy?
There are few risks factors that can lead to an ectopic pregnancy:
Age: All observed cases of ectopic pregnancies were found to be within the age of 35-44
If your previous pregnancy was ectopic, then there is a good chance that your next one could be the same. This is because an ectopic pregnancy can cause tissue damage
In case you've had a pelvic or abdominal surgery, you could have an ectopic pregnancy as a surgery poses the risk of damage to the fallopian tubes and may lead to an ectopic pregnancy
Pelvic inflammatory diseases are a common risk factor as they cause scar tissues to develop on the fallopian tubes
Previously induced abortions can also increase risk as they may have injured the internal organs
If you happen to conceive while an IUD is in place, you can have an ectopic pregnancy
Similarly, a previous tubal ligation can sometimes disrupt conception by altering the fallopian tube
Smokingmoking, it is believed, affects the ability of the fallopian tubes to function normally, and transport the fertilized egg to the uterus, thus causing an ectopic pregnancy
If you are undergoing fertility treatment or medication, you have an increased risk. During treatment, the opening of the fallopian tubes is enlarged to make it simpler for the embryos to be transported. This dilation may become counterproductive and may lead to an ectopic pregnancy
Endometriosis, a condition when the endometrial tissue grows in places other than inside the uterus can also cause an ectopic pregnancy
Signs and Symptoms of an Ectopic Pregnancy
This kind of pregnancy shows symptoms of a normal pregnancy at the beginning such as:
A missed period
Nausea
Fatigue
Tender or tingly breasts
Constant urination
However, as it advances, an ectopic pregnancy, also called a tubal pregnancy, has discomforting symptoms, the most obvious one being excessive vaginal bleeding. This happens when the ectopic pregnancy has ruptured and is classified as a medical emergency. In case of a ruptured ectopic pregnancy, symptoms and signs are the following:
Excessive sweating
Severe and sharp pelvic and abdominal pain
Very fast heartbeat (>100 beats/min)
Clammy and pale skin like in anaemia
Light headedness or dizziness
Excessive vaginal bleeding
Shoulder pain in some cases.(As abdominal bleeding can irritate the diaphragm and manifests in your body as shoulder pain)
Signs of shock
Ectopic pregnancy test
There is no specific test that can pin point an ectopic pregnancy. In most cases, an ectopic pregnancy is diagnosed due to excessive display of the above-mentioned symptoms.
Just like a normal pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy shows a positive pregnancy test due to the presence of the hCG hormone that would seem to be harmless. However, if the hCG levels do not increase at the expected rate, then an ectopic pregnancy is suspected.
This is followed by a vaginal ultrasound and a pelvic examination for further confirmation.
How is an ectopic pregnancy diagnosed?
An ectopic pregnancy is hard to diagnose, as symptoms can resemble any other normal pregnancy. In cases where the symptoms are very evident, the following diagnosis methods are used:
Vaginal ultrasound: The most common way for diagnosis that can show the location of the fertilized egg
Blood tests: As explained previously, blood hCG levels are analysed that are usually expressed during pregnancy. This is done when the ectopic pregnancy is not identified during an ultrasound
Keyhole surgery: This is a simple laparoscopic technique that can make the visualisation of the cervix and fallopian tube easier with the help of general anaesthetics. This helps you stay aware of cervix pregnancy if required
Ectopic pregnancy treatment
In an ectopic pregnancy, there is no way that the embryo will survive. And the bigger it gets, the greater the risk for the mother. As the fertilized egg cannot be transplanted to the uterus either, the only option is to terminate the pregnancy.
The treatments usually employed are:
Expectant management:
In some cases, if the symptoms are not profound then you are not given any medication or treatment. This is usually preferred so that you will not have to suffer the medical side-effects. You are however closely monitored, and your pregnancy will mostly dissolve on its own. There is mild discomfort that comes along with this method but will be taken care of
Medication:
A dose of methotrexate is injected into your system and will stop the embryo from growing. This will also be closely monitored by your doctor and a second dose will be provided if deemed necessary. There are certain side-effects to this as well, and you will have to exercise some caution that your doctor will explain to you
After having been treated with methotrexate, doctors will advise you to use contraception for at least three months as the drug is still present in your body and can harm your child in case of conception
You are also asked to refrain from drinking alcohol as it can react with methotrexate and cause serious damage to your liver
Surgery:
Doctors resort to surgery only when internal bleeding is detected. It involves the removal of the fallopian tube where the pregnancy is found. This is done with the help of laparoscopy, and there are two types of keyhole surgeries carried out:
Salpingostomy: A small cut is made in the fallopian tube that is used to remove the ectopic growth. The cut is then left to heal on its own or is stitched
Salpingectomy: The part of the fallopian tube where the ectopic growth is seen is removed, and the remaining length of the tube is reconnected. This is done when the ectopic pregnancy has ruptured and damaged the fallopian tube
In the above-discussed cases, one of the possible side effects is the rupturing of your fallopian tubes. At this point, surgery is performed, and your fallopian tube is either fixed or removed based on the extent of the damage.
Treatment options are always widely discussed before a decision is made, and depends on the level of your condition. Always make sure that you are comfortable with the decision and never hesitate to ask questions.
Chances of getting pregnant after ectopic pregnancy
There is good news for those who have had an ectopic pregnancy. According to statistics, women who have had an ectopic pregnancy have a 65% chance of having a healthy pregnancy within 18 months of experiencing it. The probability is expected to rise to 85% in the next 2 years, thanks to improvements in medical surgery related to this field.
It is important to remember that if your fallopian tubes are healthy and well-treated, a normal pregnancy is bound to happen.
Prevention of ectopic pregnancy
There is no concrete way to prevent an ectopic pregnancy, as in most cases, women aren't aware of what's going on in their reproductive organs before taking a test. This makes it hard to predict conclusively if there is an ectopic pregnancy or not.
You can, however, reduce the risks that contribute to an ectopic/cervical pregnancy:
If you are a regular smoker, quit smoking. It was found that women who smoked had a higher probability of having an ectopic pregnancy than women who didn't smoke
It is best to use contraceptives such as condoms that reduce the chances of getting STDs that can cause pelvic inflammatory diseases. These diseases contribute to the development of scar tissues in the fallopian tube and ultimately an ectopic pregnancy
During the first few weeks of your pregnancy, closely monitor your body and hCG levels to detect any discrepancies
Monitor the health of your fallopian tubes with a check-up when you are planning a baby, to prevent tubal pregnancy
Support after ectopic pregnancy
After an ectopic pregnancy, it is only natural the mother’s emotional and physical health is affected.
Post diagnosis and fallopian tube pregnancy treatment, your doctor will need to confirm the termination of the pregnancy, but even after he does, the mother may experience a continuation of the symptoms.
This is mainly due to the presence of pregnancy hormones such as hCG in the body even after the pregnancy. This still conveys the feeling of being pregnant. If there are feelings of anxiousness, fear, anger, or depression, the mother needs to be reminded that the failed pregnancy is not her fault.
The loss of pregnancy is not only depressing for the mother, but for the partner and the family as well. It is prudent to seek the professional help needed or even just have a heart-to-heart with someone close. Finding other women who have gone through the same experience and forming an ectopic pregnancy support group can help too.
How to Deal with An Ectopic Pregnancy
If you have experienced an ectopic pregnancy, remember that if one fallopian tube is removed, you always have the other one to support your future pregnancies. Believe in yourself and your body's ability to heal itself. The body has its own healing mechanism, and all you need is time and a peace of mind.
Ectopic pregnancies are in short, the opposite of every mother's dream. Make constant trips to your gynaecologist to ensure good health and to be prepared for conception well in advance. Do not ignore any symptom or sign that you feel is uneasy. After an ectopic pregnancy, take the time to nurture yourself back to normal.
Ectopic pregnancies are not widely discussed and only come to the fore when they occur. You can do your bit to help educate as many women as you can, so they can take the precautions needed to avoid them, and stay alert if they see a risk. Read more
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Stranger Anxiety in Babies and Toddlers - Signs and Tips to Deal with It
In the process of growing up, your baby will start recognising who his caretakers are and will generally be extremely aware of whose presence he is in. But the fear of strangers in babies is also what might be observed around this time. A child needs to feel safe and secure no matter the age he is at, and the presence of an unknown face might make him feel like there’s a danger associated with it.
What Is Stranger Anxiety?
For a 2-year-old, stranger anxiety might be a condition you would immediately associate him with, but it is necessary to know what exactly can be termed as stranger anxiety in the first place.
Stranger anxiety is a form of distress babies, and toddlers feel when they are exposed to people unfamiliar to them. This is a good milestone marker for your child’s growth since it relates to the proper development of memory and recognition. The degree of anxiety varies from child to child, some being extremely shy or fearful, while others just feeling a wee bit weird.
Why are Young Children Afraid of Strangers?
Young children are just getting used to the people taking care of them, and wish those to be the only permanent members around them. When this image of his parents starts getting immortalised in his brain, the presentation of a new image causes dissonance within, leading them to start feeling the fear of abandonment, making them sad and fearful of a stranger.
How Long Does Stranger Anxiety Last In a Child?
There is no specific baby stranger anxiety age to demarcate how long it tends to last. As it starts around the age of 6 months or so, it reaches its prominence in the following months and then fades away depending on the frequency of interactions. Girls seem to be better in this regard while boys might take up to 2 years to get comfortable with strangers.
Symptoms of Stranger Anxiety In Infants and Toddlers
The signs of stranger anxiety being present in your child are not hard to spot, and can generally be observed whenever social interactions are taking place. These are seen in the following conditions.
Apprehension when interacting with other kids
Seeing an unknown person or guest at a home
The stranger making attempts to get closer
The person dressed in a different manner
Being alone in a room with the person
Breathing rapidly to calm down
Running around the house looking for you
Hiding behind an object
Facing away from the stranger
Moving to the other side of the room
Getting too fussy
Start crying uncontrollably
Common Problems Associated with Stranger Anxiety
Handling a baby with stranger anxiety can pose numerous issues to you as well as the other person. Excited relatives might feel rejected on seeing a kid behave in this manner, while parents might have a hard time in getting him used to babysitters or the caretakers at a creche.
How To Help Your Child To Feel Comfortable Around Strangers?
There are a few simple ways stranger anxiety can be reduced, and your child can gradually made to feel comfortable around a person or a similar environment.
Let The New Person Cooperate
Allow the new person to interact with the child from a distance by talking to him or playing peek-a-boo or other games to get his guards down
Inform The Person Beforehand
If your child is meeting someone new, let them know that he has trouble dealing with new people right away. This will help them control their actions accordingly and not approach the child directly.
Maintain Your Presence
Your child will feel much more secure if you are in the same room or in his sight while the stranger is present. Interacting with the new person together can make his anxiety fade away.
Be Patient
Stranger anxiety will not fade away within a day or a week. Your child will take his own time to develop his courage and get used to new people. Allow him to do so.
Acknowledge His Fear
Don’t brush away his concerns or behaviour. Let him know you understand his feelings by not forcing him to interact and supporting him when needed.
Empathize With Your Child
If your little one has an extreme case of stranger anxiety, do your best to reduce those interactions in the early stages. Don’t put him in a position that might trigger it.
Can You Prevent Stranger Anxiety In Young Children?
Severe stranger anxiety in toddlers is quite rare, but that leads parents to wonder if they can prevent it altogether. Pushing them in uncomfortable scenarios and engaging them to interact might seem sensible, but it isn’t always so. Children take their own time in getting used to the world, and there’s no way you can prevent it. It can worsen if you scold your child for expressing what he feels.
The fear of strangers in toddlers is not irrational and is a natural consequence of the way we all grow up as human beings. Stepping out of the comfort zone and coming to terms with the unknown requires time, and your child will do in his own good time. Support him through the phase, and he will very soon be interacting with numerous people in multiple ways.
Also Read: Dealing With Separation Anxiety in Babies Read more
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12 Brilliant Tips for People Travelling Abroad This Year
Travelling can be a wonderful experience - IF it’s done right. If not, it basically becomes a nightmare of sorts that you can’t really imagine! Think about the time you reached your destination, but your luggage was headed on vacation elsewhere. Before Google Maps enriched our lives, paper maps and asking for directions is all we had - how many times did you manage to get lost while looking for a restaurant? Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time explorer, stepping outside your desi borders can present its fair share of challenges. However, these little tips can help you take care of certain details you probably overlook, and help you have a hassle-free vacay!
12 Travel Tips for a Memorable Holiday
Ready to have the time of your life and gift your kids some precious memories? Make sure you have a convenient and safe trip with these 12 travel tips.
1. Do all your homework.
Even if you tend to rely on impulse and like to wander about in a new place without much of an idea about it, it’s always a good idea to do a bit of extensive research about where you’re headed. Read up on everything - from popular destinations to offbeat ones, from must-visit restaurants to street food havens, things about the local culture, and how you’re going to manage your way around the place once you get there. Take advantage of one of the best resources that is available out there - travel blogs! When you get first-hand information about the place you’re going to visit, it will make you feel much more prepared and may probably introduce you to things that you didn’t know existed.
Don’t make the mistake of thinking ‘we’ll find out about things once we get there’; for all you know, you may be stepping into a foreign land without as much as even the language being a common factor. Especially when you’re travelling with children, it’s best to get every detail in order and avoid complications.
2. Check if your passport is due for renewal.
Lots of countries follow the six-month rule, whereby entry is denied to travellers if their passport will expire within the next six months. Of course, this case differs from country to country, but it’s always good to keep a check and not be disappointed at the last minute over such a detail.
3. Register yourself with your embassy.
A lot of travellers don’t actually register themselves with their embassies; this is a voluntary exercise but one with the benefits of security. By registering and informing the embassy of your travel plans, they will be able to track you, should an emergency arise.
4. Email your personal documents to your inbox.
As taxing as it can be to scan your different documents, your prudent self will thank you for doing this in the case of any negative scenario, such as your documents getting lost or stolen. It’s always good to have an electronic backup of all your documents and tickets, such that even if the originals are lost, you still have some sort of ID proof. Also, keep a copy of your passport along with your luggage, such that there will be a proof of identification in case it gets lost.
5. Invest in travel insurance.
Some countries mandate that travellers have insurance based on certain factors but it isn’t necessary for every country. Either way, paying a nominal fee (technically, you will be spending quite a lot on your international trip and this fee won’t be so exorbitant in comparison) for a safety cover won’t be a bad idea. Most insurance deals cover cancellation and delay charges, medical expenses, loss of baggage or belongings, and so on. And especially for those of you who’ve ever experienced any of these situations, you’ll know what a pain it truly is!
6. Pack light - but not too light either!
It’s always a good idea to leave enough space in your suitcases to fill up with your vacation souvenirs. All the same, make sure you don’t skimp on the essentials or on things you’re unsure about getting at your destination. A few extra pairs of clothes will always be beneficial in case of any mishaps. Apart from that, stock up on medicines, especially if you’re on regular medication. In a new place where you’re trying to find your feet, the last thing you’d want to do is experiment with the local versions of your prescribed medicines! The same goes for your and your kids’ personal care items or toiletries - carry along sachets or miniatures of products that suit you best, as the products in your travel destination may, sometimes, not work well for you.
7. Carry enough cash.
When we say enough, we don’t mean rely only on cash. It’s best to maintain 70% of your currency on prepaid cards (a forex card is your best bet, as it can be used in ATMs and be swiped for transactions) and 30% in cash. You’ll need cash for miscellaneous transactions and in case of emergencies, and it’s best to get it exchanged before leaving from India. If you have too much leftover cash at the end of your trip, check with your hotel to see if you can pay the bill with both cash and card.
Also, it’s not just your family, friends, and colleagues you need to inform before travelling - make sure your bank knows too! Since the bank will be alerted every time you make a transaction with your card in another country, it may be instantly blocked under the misunderstanding that it’s a fraudulent transaction. Avoid such mishaps by giving the bank a heads-up early on.
8. Make necessary phone arrangements.
You can either add an international roaming data plan to your SIM card or purchase a local SIM card once you’re at your destination. These are usually available at the airport itself; you can choose data plans based on your duration of stay and call requirements. Make sure you find out recharge details as well, so that you’re not caught off-guard with zero balance while trying to make an important call!
9. Download travel apps.
Put technology and your smartphone to good use for your international trip. Download travel apps to keep a track of your expenses, to know what to pack depending on the weather of your destination, to avail of discounts and offers, to fuel your spontaneity while travelling without much ready information, and so on.
10. Hold on to your hotel’s business card.
Once you’re at your destination and are ready to start exploring, make sure you carry along the hotel’s business card with you. This way, even if you may be lost, you can always depend on the locals to help you find your way back.
11. Carry a pocket map too.
Google Maps will always be the saviour of people with little to no clue of directions. But what if your Wi-Fi fails you or your phone decides to act up for no reason? The old-fashioned paper map makes for a safe backup - you can mark routes, modes of public transport, important numbers, locations, and so on, follow where the map leads you. Besides, carrying around a map will give you the chance to impart some geography lessons to your children and make them feel like they’re part of a ‘Dora the Explorer’ episode!
12. Don’t be afraid to mingle with strangers.
While culturally, we may not wave and say hi to everyone we pass by on the road, it’s good to let go of those inhibitions when you’re on foreign soil. Take your head out of your phone (as you probably do while sitting in a bus or train), and interact with other tourists and the locals. You’ll hear of a lot of interesting stories and tidbits outside of your own Google-based research, and can make a lot of new friends. Who knows, if you ever get in a spot of trouble, one of those new acquaintances could probably help you out! Besides, it will be good to see a familiar face in an unfamiliar city, right?
We’re sure you know a lot of the conventional rules and tips while planning a vacation in another country. These were just a few additional tips and hacks to help you get the best out of what you have and handle avoidable mishaps. So pack your essentials, get technical details in order, and enjoy your holidays!
Also Read:
Packing Checklist for Travelling Abroad with Kids
The Best and Safest Ways to Travel with Money
Healthy Foods to Pack When You Travel Read more
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Ideas for a Simple Yet Delicious Breakfast for Your Notorious Toddler
Breakfast, the first meal of the day is to be planned appropriately as it helps in having a pleasant start and enjoying strength-giving food. Almost all parents tell their kids to finish their breakfast without a fuss. But it is not easy with notorious toddlers who love to run here and there, leaving everything behind. Here are a few delicious breakfast suggestions that are perfect for toddlers.Serving interesting food in a kid-friendly manner helps him enjoy his breakfast. A toddler needs to have a healthy start to be active throughout the day.
Upma
It is the easiest breakfast recipe. Upma when added to some finely chopped veggies like carrot, potatoes, onion, peas turns colourful and tasty. Add chillis according to your taste. With a spoonful of ghee, this turns into a wonderful option. Try simple vermicelli Upma.
Idli
Idli is one of the perfect breakfast options in Indian households. Toddlers after a few days get bored with the same white coloured idli. So you can add palak puree which turns it green. Grate some carrot and serve a different type of idli. Changing colour attracts kids and it is also loaded with many nutrients.
Dosa
A tasty recipe which is a good start for breakfast. Cheese dosa is a good option to serve for toddlers. For a change, make sprouts dosa which is rich in protein. To attract kids, make small sized dosas as it is easy to eat. Ragi dosa is also a good option for a healthy start. Wheat dosa fills the tummy of a toddler.
Paratha
The most delicious North Indian recipe loaded with goodness. Potatoes, paneer, palak or spinach, fenugreek or methi, green peas, beetroot, bottle gourd and others are perfect options to make a lip-smacking paratha. Roast it with ghee and add the veggies you want your toddler to have as this is a whole meal.
Puri
Along with parathas, puri is another option for breakfast. To attract your toddler, make the puri in smaller sizes. Palak puri, beetroot puri are colourful and healthy along with regular ones. Also try aloo puri whicu is a good choice.
Egg
Eggs are an easy and healthy breakfast option for toddlers. Offer it by boiling or make a tasty omelette, it is totally nutritious. Use different shapes to make it attractive to your toddler.
Along with these simple yet delicious breakfast options try offering your toddler sweets and milkshakes that energise him and support his growth.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Tips to Help Preschoolers Learn about Feelings
Preschoolers rate higher than toddlers on the feelings scale; they now experience a wider range of emotions than before. Help them identify what they feel and put it into words with our useful tips to help preschoolers learn about feelings.
How do you feel?’ is a question everyone faces at various points in their lives. Why, even Facebook isn’t shying away from asking you about your feelings! But social media apart, identifying one’s emotions and expressing them properly is extremely important, especially in relationships both at home and outside.
Young kids are human too, and they experience several emotions like happiness, sadness, fear and anger – and all these probably in the course of a single day! When they are toddlers, they lack the speech skills to express themselves. But preschoolers are able to express their emotions. Parents play an important role in helping kids express their feelings.
Parents and teachers need to take equal responsibility in helping preschoolers with their feelings, and everyone agrees that the best way to learn is through play. Here are some simple tips to help preschoolers learn about feelings and express them in the right way.
Use the Right Words
First of all, kids need to know what they’re feeling. When they’re feeling any particular emotion, tell them what it is: “You’re feeling happy right now because grandma bought you a chocolate”. Or “You’re sad because we couldn’t go to grandma’s house today”. Doing so consistently makes the words familiar to them and they’ll soon start using them on their own.
Read Books about Feelings
There are a large number of children’s books available today, specifically talking about a particular feeling like anger. Read these books to your children, as it will help kids understand that these feelings are normal and felt by everyone. It will also reinforce the name of each feeling.
Teach the Right Techniques
Kids need to learn that there are ways for dealing with every emotion, without hurting themselves or other people. For example, when sad, they can go to their room and sit quietly for a while. When angry, they can blow out or count to ten before saying anything.
Use Art
Child experts claim that children’s drawings nearly always reflect their innermost feelings and desires. If your child is unable to talk about his emotions, let him draw or paint – it’ll give vent to his feelings and he’ll learn a new way of coping with them.
Encourage Tactile Play
Messy play involving sand, play dough, mud or paints help children come in contact with materials of different textures and is a great way to help them focus and give vent to their feelings.
Role Play with Dolls and Puppets
This is a great way to show kids how to behave and help them understand the dynamics of emotions. Just gather their dolls (or action figures or teddies) and create a scene where they get to talk about their feelings, or resolve an issue by talking about it. Kids will get the subtle message and they won’t even realize it!!
Take them Out
Even adults feel better when they are out in the fresh air and in contact with nature. Take kids to a place where they can relax and give vent to any aggression with lots of rough play.
Use Media
When watching TV with your child, talk about how the characters in the show are feeling, and also ask him what he thinks about the way they’re dealing with their feelings. This will give you a good idea about his understanding about people and emotions.
Enforce Consequences
Sometimes kids test your boundaries, and you’ll have to teach them the consequences of the same. But positive reinforcement always works much better than timeouts, so ensure that you reward your child whenever he works out his feelings in the right way.
Be a Good Role Model
None of these tips are going to work if you model the wrong behavior to your child. You are his first and most important role model, and feelings are a complicated matter for kids. So, always be sure that you use the right words and techniques to handle your feelings.
Being able to identify and express one’s feelings correctly has several advantages like – kids grow up more polite, they don’t bottle up emotions and are less stressed, they have healthier and more open relationships as adults. Most importantly, it encourages honesty and integrity, along with the ability to deal with tough situations without hurting anyone. And of course, a peaceful and happy home!! Read more
Vandana Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
12 hours ago
Q. please tale me how much dengerous for may 7 days old baby and she was 2.9 kg.
Vandana Sharma
Nutritionist
11 hours ago
A. Hello mom the blood sugar level of baby is quite low , could say hypoglycemia as well .
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. hlw hospital bag main baby nd mom ke liye kiya kiya le jana chahiye???
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. hospital bag mein baby ke essentials Deni hogi aap YouTube per dekh sakte hain. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. my last period was on 29 February 2024 according to which I am 8 weeks 4 days pregnant but my usg scan shows 7 weeks 3 days
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
10 hours ago
A. For this purpose I’d like to tell you plus -1 or two weeks is completely normal to be seen during ultrasound till the time doctor does not say anything in order of you need to worry about the don’t worry like I said this can be commonly seen in one plus or 2+ weeks or minus weeks is fine
Ashima Malhotra has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
10 hours ago
Q. Am craving to have a burger at McDonald’s. Am 15 week pregnant.
Is it safe to have
Ashima Malhotra
Mom of a 10 m old boy
9 hours ago
A. avoid it
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
9 hours ago
Q. It's my 12th week of pregnancy but last night I noticed some bleeding. So, my doctor prescribed Duphaston for 2 weeks. Is there anything to worry about? Please guide me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
9 hours ago
A. at present take rest and use medicines as advised by the doctor. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
2 hours ago
Q. I am 7 month pregnant with second baby I have severe abscess pain in armpit and buttocks pls tell me remedy for this ...Dr recommend antibiotics and ultracet pain tablet I have taken some doses of it but worried about the foetal development..does it hurt my baby
Read moreDr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
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53 mins ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
continue antibiotics regularly
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