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Top 40 Fun Indoor Games for Kids
Playing is not simply for fun, it is a stress-buster, it is an activity that keeps us healthy without giving us the time to realise its value. When kids are tired of studying for long, games are their rescue which they look forward to eagerly. But in this scorching heat of Summer, no parents allow their kids to go out and play in the Sun.
It is their summer holidays, you can't keep children away from playing. So, what can you do? You want them to play but you want them to be safe as well. Why don't indulge your kids and their friends in indoor games? Anyways, for the kids of this generation, indoor games mean video games or games on mobile phones. But, as parents, you can show them the games of your times.You had fun right in your childhood playing those indoor games and fighting with your sibling, didn't you? So, teach your kids the same!You can try brain games too as they will be helpful for your child's development.
40 Highly Enjoyable Indoor Games for Children
There’s nothing like a good game to bring a family together. Here is a list of kids’ indoor games that can suit you well when you wish to spend some family time, or the weather doesn’t allow outdoor activities. Break their boredom with these games:
1. Balancing Beam
This is an easy activity and can be great for younger kids and toddlers and helps them improve motor skills and their balance.
What You Will Need
Coloured tape
Flat floor space to play
How to Play
Stick different coloured tapes tape on the floor
Each coloured tape can have a different rule to walk on. For example, you can ask the kid to walk on one leg on the red coloured tape
The child has to walk only on the tape. If he falls off the tape, he’ll be out of the game.
The child that walks the entire length of the tape without falling off the tape wins the game
Suggestion
Make the game interesting by changing the rules
2. Pitching Pennies
This game will help in building your child’s hand-eye coordination.
What You Will Need
Pennies or currency coins
Large sized paper or plastic drinking cups
How to Play
Place the cup on a chair on the table in front of the children
Give each child 5 coins each
You can ask the child to take a few steps away from the cup in accordance with his age
Explain to your child that he has to toss the coins, one at a time, into the cup
The person with the most coins in the cup wins
Suggestion
You can use marbles or ping pong balls in place of pennies to play this game.
3. Indoor Bowling
Create a simple bowling alley in your house and have fun. This game is also ideal for hand-eye coordination in children.
What You Will Need
Flat floor space to play
Ten empty bottles or soda cans
Plastic ball or a tennis ball
Tape
Marker
Spray paint (non-toxic)
How to Play
Using the tape, create a bowling lane
Peel off the wrappers of the cans and the bottles and spray paint them. Allow them to dry
Arrange the bottles at the end of the lane. You may arrange it like bowling pins or stack them on top of each other to form a pyramid
Ask the child to strike this arrangement using the ball
Suggestion
You can even opt for readily available bowling set in case you have one.
4. In and Out Hangman
This game can be engaging for young kids and may even be a fun way to learn.
What You Will Need
White or blackboard
Marker or chalk
Set of questions and answers or words and hints
How to Play
Ask your child a question and on the board draw tiny blanks to correlate with the number of letters in the answer. Allow enough space between two words to make it easier for the child to guess the answer
Instruct your child to guess one letter in the answer and one letter that isn’t in it alternatively.
Your child is allowed seven wrong guesses, which is the number of steps it takes to complete a hangman figure
Suggestion
You can make the game exciting for your child by asking about his favourite toys, movies, etc.
5. Pictionary
Pictionary is a fun game that requires one player to draw an image indicating the word, where the other player has to guess it correctly.
What You Will Need
Paper or board
Pencil or marker
How to Play
Write down different words on pieces of paper and drop them in the bowl
Ask your child to pick up the pieces and draw it on the board without telling you what it is. Alternately, you can draw, and he can guess
Suggestion
You can make this game more fun by having groups and competing against each other.
6. Sock Toss
Using some folded up socks and a bucket, you can enjoy a game of mini basketball right at home.
What You Will Need
Space to play
Socks
Bucket
How to Play
Roll up the socks into little balls and tie them
Place the bucket in one place and ask your child to move a few steps away from it
You can then take turns to throw the sock balls into the bucket. Move further away from the bucket after each turn
Suggestion
It can be made challenging for older kids by using buckets with a narrower opening.
7. Indoor Obstacle Course
You can build an obstacle course around child-proofed areas; this is a fun option for kids of various ages.
What You Will Need
Chairs
Blankets
Exercise ball
Hula hoops
Anything else that may be useful
How to Play
Set up the course as space permits and as you would like it and make the rules
Each obstacle may require a different way to cross through it. For example, ask your child to pass from under a chair or pass through the blanket tunnel twice before he could move on to the next obstacle.
He will be given a point only after successfully completing each obstacle
Suggestion
Child-proof the area before setting up an obstacle course to avoid any injuries.
8. Follow the leader
If you have several kids at home, this activity can be great fun and is one of the easiest ways to get the kids to follow what you are doing.
What You Will Need
A list of simple activities
Space to play
How to Play
Select different themes for the game. It could be physical activity, gestures, or expressions
You can be the leader or give each child a chance to be the leader
All the players will have to mimic what the leader does, jumping, dancing, laughing, etc
Suggestion
This game can be the perfect excuse to squeeze in some exercise when kids are bound inside the house.
9. Puzzles
Give your child access to various puzzles that can be both engaging and educational.
What You Will Need
Different kinds of a picture or word puzzles
How to Play
Explain to your child that he needs to set the pieces of the puzzle together to form a picture in case of a picture puzzle
If you have younger children, you can try some 3D puzzles toys
Words puzzles are excellent for older kids in order to improve their vocabulary
Suggestion
Keep some puzzle books handy at home that can be given to your child when you cannot get out.
10. Card games
Simple card games are great for kids in order to mould their logical reasoning and colour and number identification.
What You Will Need
A deck of cards or two
How to Play
You can play simple kids card games like spoons, trash, cards, memory card (needs two decks), crazy eights (where you need to get rid of all your cards), etc.
Go fish is a simple card game that is ideal for pre-schoolers.
Suggestion
You can always opt for Uno, which can be a fun alternative.
11. Building a Fort
Although not necessarily a game, it can keep your child engaged and occupied.
What You Will Need
Pillows
Chairs
Cardboard boxes
Blankets
Anything else in the house that can be used
How to Play
To make a cardboard fort, you can simply stack up a few cardboard boxes together and stick them with tape
Stack up pillows on two sides with a gap between them and throw a blanket over for a simple pillow fort
A few sticks and a blanket can help you build a tepee tent
Simply cover a table or a couple of chairs with a blanket, and you’ll have a small fort. You could also fold up the blanket on one side and call it an entrance
Suggestion
You can build a fort with pillows, cardboard boxes, and blankets with your kids.
12. Dominoes
Stacking dominoes and watching them fall in quick succession can be enjoyable for people across ages. It can also give your child something to do for an entire day.
What You Will Need
Dominoes game set
How to Play
Stack the dominoes in the pattern and arrangement that your child prefers. You can help your child with this.
Once all the pieces are set, you can ask your child to flip the first piece and watch as the rest follow suit.
Suggestion
Try different patterns and capture the entire thing on video for a memory that will last.
13. Ice Tower Excavation
Ice tower excavation is just the game your child needs when it is too hot to step outside. It is simple and can be enjoyed for hours.
What You Will Need
A tall container
Different toys and trinkets
How to Play
Place the toys in the container and fill it with clear water
Place this container in the freezer until the water turns to ice, and the toys are trapped inside
Ease this ice block out of the container and arm your child with tools like salt, eye drops, and squeeze bottles to melt the ice and rescue the toy
Suggestion
Use a container that has a uniform width to make it easier to take the ice out of it.
14. Read
Getting your child into the habit of reading is a great way to keep him occupied on most days.
What You Will Need
Books
How to Play
Pick up a book with pictures and read with your child
Suggestion
Get your child a new book each time to captivate his attention.
15. Freeze
This simple game can be a great family activity that both adults and kids will enjoy.
What You Will Need
Music
Space to play
How to Play
Play the music and dance till the music stops and ask everyone to freeze in the position they were in.
Suggestion
You can even ask the kids to pose in specific postures to make the game challenging.
16. Paper Bag Skits
This creative game is ideal for older kids and can be played during a sleepover when you have a lot of kids together.
What You Will Need
Paper bags filled with small props like spoons, jewellery, ball, sock, etc.
How to Play
Form groups of kids and give each group a paper bag filled with different props
Tell them to create a small skit using the props they have received
After 15 minutes, allow each group enough time to showcase what they have planned
Suggestion
This game can be made more creative with elaborate props.
17. Hide and seek
With some space inside the house, you can play this for hours.
What You Will Need
Space to play inside the house
How to Play
Ask one child to close his eyes and count till 20 until the rest of them hide in different places
Once the seeker is done with counting, he will have to go to find others
The first person to be caught has to count the next time when the others hide again
Suggestion
You can take the game up a notch by playing it in the dark. Ensure to child-proof the house before doing so.
18. Treasure Hunt
With a simple yet fun treasure hunt game, you can give your kid the chance to learn and utilize his cognition.
What You Will Need
Hints and clues at each hidden location
Coins or treats
How to Play
Hide treats or coins in various places like under the bed or in cereal boxes along with clues to the next location, creating a trail
Give your child a hint to where the first clue is and let him find the rest on his own
Suggestion
Leaving some currency coins along with the clues can be a great option.
19. Hot Potato
This indoor game is ideal for young kids in a group.
What You Will Need
A potato or a ball
How to Play
Make them sit in a circle and pass the potato to each other
Play music
Stop the music, and the kid with the potato is out. The last one to remain wins
Suggestion
You can play this game with any prop like a ball or a toy.
20. The Listening Game
This game can engage your child’s senses and help him improve his listening skills.
What You Will Need
Several objects like toys, combs, salt shakers, spoon, etc.
How to Play
Place the objects before the child and let him observe
Now have your child close his eyes
One by one, use individual objects to create a sound and have your child guess what object it was
Suggestion
You can use a blindfold to ensure that your child doesn’t get tempted to peak.
21. Bubbles
This is one of the easiest ways to enjoy bubbles indoor without creating a mess.
What You Will Need
Straw
Dishwashing soap
Plate
How to Play
Place a small amount of dishwashing soap on a plate and pour some water on it and mix it until some suds begin to form
Ask your child to place one end of the straw in the suds and blow gently from the other end to make bubbles
Suggestion
You can play this with several kids and see who can make the largest bubble.
22. Simon Says
Simon says is a classic game that can be enjoyed by all the members of the family.
What You Will Need
Space to play
How to Play
Instruct your kids that they are to do what you say only if you start the command with the phrase ‘Simon says...’
If you say anything without saying the phrase, they aren’t supposed to do it. If they do, they will be out of the game.
The last person to follow all the commands accurately wins and gets to become the next Simon.
Suggestion
Make the game more challenging by tricking the children.
23. Touch and Feel Box
This entertaining game can be a good learning experience and teach the children to identify the object by touch alone.
What You Will Need
Shoe box
Different objects
How to Play
Cut out a hole in the shoe box big enough for the child to fit his hand inside.
Place different items in the box and ask your child to identify them by touch alone.
Suggestion
Make the game fun by adding objects of varying textures.
24. Playdough
Give your child some playdough, and you can see his creativity unfold.
What You Will Need
Playdough
How to Play
Set your child at a table or in his room with play dough and ask him to create anything that he likes
Suggestion
You can also give him names of specific objects and ask him to mould them to improve his cognitive skills.
25. Imaginary cooking
If your child shows interest in the kitchen, this can be the perfect game for him/her.
What You Will Need
Simple utensils or a cooking set
How to Play
Give your kids access to a few utensils, and you can watch as their imaginary cooking skills unfold
You can also place orders for them to prepare
Suggestion
You can give your child simple cut vegetables to make it all more real.
26. Family Photo Game
This game can improve your child's memory.
What You Will Need
10 or more family photos
How to Play
Arrange the photos in front of your child
Call out the name of the family member and your child should be able to identify them in the photo and point them out
You can also name the location and with for your child to point out
Suggestion
You can play this game with pictures of other places and objects as well.
27. Kids Yoga
Yoga is a great activity to enhance flexibility in your kids.
What You Will Need
Flashcards with pictures of the postures
Yoga mat or a carpet
How to Play
Teach your child simple yoga poses and encourage him to do it when you name it
You can use flashcards with the names and pictures of the postures to help your kid remember
Suggestion
Make the activity more engaging by teaching your kids animal poses and playing songs during the activity.
28. Balloon Ball
This game also improves a child's hand-eye coordination.
What You Will Need
Balloons
How to Play
Blow up some balloons and play throw and catch with your child.
You can also challenge your child to gently tap the balloon against the ground to keep it in the air.
Suggestion
This game can be challenging with more than one balloon of different colours.
29. Home Band
Create a musical instrument with simple things from around the house and encourage your child to play.
What You Will Need
Buckets
Shakers made of a plastic bottle with beans or coins
Any other utensil or container that can be used
How to Play
Provide your child with these objects and allow him to get creative.
You can even sing along for a better experience.
Suggestion
Keep adding objects to the mix to encourage his creativity further.
30. A Dance Party
Dance party can be a fun way to spend your time indoors.
What You Will Need
Music and space to dance
How to Play
Play your child's favourite music and dance freely, or copy choreographed dance moves.
Suggestion
You can even choreograph your own routine to make it exciting.
31. Magic Show
Simple, easy-to-do magic tricks can leave your little one in awe.
What You Will Need
A cup and a coin or clip
How to Play
Place the clip under the cup and slowly, without your child noticing it, drop it on the edge of the table
Lift the cup to reveal nothing. Your child will be amazed that there is nothing under the cup
Suggestion
If you are creative, you can try more magic tricks to awe your child.
32. Land, Sea, Air
This make-believe game can be the best for a fun time at home.
What You Will Need
Space to play marked by various things
How to Play
Divide your house into two parts, namely land and sea.
When you call land, your child needs to jump on the land, and when you call sea, he has to jump on the floor that you decide. If you call air, he’ll need to jump as high as possible.
Suggestion
This game can be paired with a good amount of exercise along with fun.
33. Musical Chairs
This is a game for whole family or a group of kids.
What You Will Need
Music
Chairs
How to Play
Place chairs (1 less than the total number of players) in a circle
Play music and ask the players to dance around the chairs
When the music stops, they will need to sit on the closest chair. The person without a chair is out of the game. This chair and music game is very much fun.
Suggestion
You can ask the players to run around the chair to make it more challenging.
34. Guess the Person
This is a pure guessing game and can be played by the whole family.
What You Will Need
A piece of paper to write the names on
How to Play
Your kids will write a name of a family member, friend or teacher on the paper and keep it with him
You will need to guess the right name of the person
Suggestion
This game can be more interesting by giving clues about the person.
35. Chinese Whisper
This simple game can end up with hilarious results. It is best played in a large group.
What You Will Need
Space to play
How to Play
Sit around in a circle and whisper anything into the ear of the person sitting next to you.
This has to continue until the message reaches the last person and he will need to announce it out.
The game is fun because the message usually gets distorted by the time it reaches that last person.
Suggestion
Make the game challenging by whispering long phrases.
36. Carom
This four-player game is perfect for some family time.
What You Will Need
Carom board, coins
How to Play
Aiming a striker, you will need to hit the other coins into the pockets on the corner of the board
Different coloured coins have a different value, and the rules may differ across the region
Suggestion
Make the game competitive by playing in teams.
37. Head Pop
Popping balloon can be a fun activity for anyone, including adults.
What You Will Need
A cap with a pin or a needle attached to it
Balloons
How to Play
Hang or stick the balloons at different heights
Make your child wear the hat and jump up to pop the balloon
Suggestion
Exercise caution and ensure that your kid does not touch the needle or the pin.
38. Snakes and Ladder
Snakes and ladder is a classic family game that can be enjoyed by everyone.
What You Will Need
The snake and ladder board game with dice and coins
How to Play
Each person gets to roll the dice and move as many spaces as the number on the dice
If you reach a ladder, you climb up, and if you fall on the mouth of a snake, you will need to drop down to the tail
Suggestion
Play this game with three or four players for the best time.
39. Sorting Colours
This game is ideal for toddlers and younger kids, and it aids in cognitive development.
What You Will Need
Bowls
Marbles or small items of different colours
How to Play
Mix up items of all the colours together.
Now ask your toddler to sort items of the same colour and put them each in a different bowl.
Suggestion
If you are using marbles ensure to supervise your child to avoid any choking hazard.
40. Rock, Paper, Scissors
This simple, yet engaging game is a favourite among many.
What You Will Need
Space to play
How to Play
You and your child will have to make the gesture of rock, paper, or scissors with your hand simultaneously.
Rock – folding your hand into a fist, paper – outstretched palm, scissors – a V shape using your index and middle finger.
The rule of the game is that rock trumps scissors, paper trumps rock, and scissors trump paper.
Suggestion
Write down your points and see who wins the most number of sets.
Write down your points and see who wins the most number of sets. It’s natural that you won’t be able to play with your child all the time. Commitments like work at home or office might keep you busy. But, your baby can use his me-time to develop his “Smarts”. To encourage his overall development, you can also buy activity boxes that are designed for kids. The activities in these boxes can help improve your child’s eye-hand coordination, sense of direction, vocabulary, and other soft skills at the right age. Furthermore, your kid will learn about the world in a fun way.
Also Read: 15 Easy & Fun Christmas Party Games For Kids Read more
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It's a Baby Boy for Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik!
It’s the news we’ve been waiting for and the wait is finally over - Sania Mirza and Shoaib Malik have become parents to a baby boy today! The excited father took to social media to announce the happy news and assured that both mom and baby are doing fine.
https://twitter.com/realshoaibmalik/status/1057090038993870849
Filmmaker Farah Khan, who is one of Sania’s closest friends posted congratulatory wishes on Instagram with the caption: “Finally!! Best news in a long time!! Congratulations @mirzasaniar@realshoaibmalik @anammirzaaa@imranmirza58 n of course the nani n daadi ♥️god bless our lil angel”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BpifBBdgUTg/?taken-by=farahkhankunder
Partner-in-crime and sister of the new mommy, Anam Mirza couldn’t hold back her excitement of becoming an aunt either, as she posted the same picture above with the caption - “It’s a boyyyy!!!! Alhamduilllllaaahhhh!!! @mirzasaniar@realshoaibmalik #babymirzamalik30.10.18”
Sania and Shoaib got married in the year 2010 and this is their first child. The pregnancy was announced on April 23rd of this year on Instagram with this simple little image and hashtag #BabyMirzaMalik, and seriously, how cute is that little onesie!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bh6U0QpgLGs/
It’s evident from her career graph that Sania is not someone who can be slowed down easily. She had been quite outspoken about her pregnancy journey as well, and has proved that it isn’t a handicap, contrary to regressive beliefs. Rather, she believed that pregnancy empowers a woman because she gets to experience how much she is truly capable of, mentally and physically! In fact, when asked how soon she can be expected to be back in the courts, Sania answered:
“For now, my priority is to have a healthy child — that’s it. I'm not really thinking about hitting the court right now. But realistically, I plan on playing at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. There's absolutely no pressure, but trying to get fit will also be another priority.”
Source - https://www.pinkvilla.com/lifestyle/people/pregnant-sania-mirza-wants-have-healthy-baby-and-plans-playing-2020-tokyo-olympics-429949
Inspirational, as always!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmJZ90-FVka/?taken-by=mirzasaniar
Sania’s Diet and Fitness Regimen
Everyone knows that pregnancy automatically calls for a strict diet and exercises. Some foods may have to be restricted while others may need to be consumed in the right quantity to meet the body’s nutritional requirements during pregnancy. As a sportsperson though, this wasn’t too challenging for Sania who does follow healthy food habits. She had been on a gluten-free diet for a while, but quite luckily for her, her cravings had been leaning more towards spicy delicacies than sweets (there’s one way to stay clear of gaining weight!). She also stayed away from red meat during her pregnancy. While following a healthy diet, Sania was also mindful about not denying her body what it craved once in a while, be it a doughnut or some chatpatta snacks.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlCmSDwFHzC/?taken-by=mirzasaniar
As part of her diet, she usually had scrambled or fried eggs for breakfast. Before lunch, she’d drink a healthy green juice made of spinach, apple cider vinegar, and green apple. Plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein were part of her daily diet, as much as water was.
Sania also made sure to exercise as much as possible during her pregnancy. While she practised tennis lightly initially, she decided to take it slow, later on, opting to walk a couple of kilometres a day and also practising yoga four times a week. The video below is what you need to watch to gain some real inspiration to get off that couch and get moving!
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmOYjZ4F2Mp/?taken-by=mirzasaniar
Sania On Her Pregnancy
Staying fit and healthy has been an important aspect of Sania’s pregnancy. When asked how she was able to avoid any bloating on her face, she credited luck but also mentioned how she drinks a lot of water. Sania acknowledged that she was lucky to have quite an uncomplicated pregnancy, whether it’s the lack of morning sickness or any such problems at all. She also urged pregnant women to stay as active as possible to maintain a healthy pregnancy, in an Instagram Q&A session.
But diets and physical care are not all that’s required during pregnancy; Sania had stressed many times on the importance of staying positive and motivating oneself throughout the process. Trusting one’s instincts are also equally important, which is another piece of advice Sania had for pregnant women. “You must do what you want to do and what your body is allowing you to do. You and your child know what’s best for each other. You will get a lot of advice, but you know what’s best and trust yourself”, the tennis star has said.
Source - http://www.indulgexpress.com/life-style/sports/2018/oct/05/tennis-player-sania-mirza-talks-about-her-odd-cravings-and-fitness-regimen-during-pregnancy-10516.html
In fact, the six-time Grand Slam winner had faced plenty of criticism and had to deal with “well-meaning advice” from many people, a lot of them including men. Responding quite scathingly to such comments, Sania had tweeted that pregnancy isn’t a disease to be ashamed of or one that reduces the value of a woman. Hear, hear!
https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1050756487969042432
https://twitter.com/MirzaSania/status/1050757046746791936
On Preparing for Motherhood
Being a high-profile sports couple and hailing from different countries, Sania and Shoaib have faced a wide range of questions, ranging from ‘who’ll handle the burden of raising the child’ to ‘what sport is the baby going to play’!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnsfgj2lRvd/?taken-by=mirzasaniar
Right off the bat, Sania had been vocal about the fact that what she truly wants is a happy and healthy child, rather than worrying about its gender. She also wished that kids everywhere should have the freedom of choice in their lives, to follow what they want, and dream and achieve things, whether ordinary or out-of-the-box. Given that the sports pursued by Shoaib and Sania are different, people have also asked her which way they’ll push the child, which Sania mentioned to be undue pressure put on the child before he or she is even born!
When it comes to parenting, Sania already knows that she is going to the stricter one among the two! She has claimed that Shoaib is a lot more patient than she is and it’s going to make him the lenient parent! But jokes aside, the couple isn’t focused on any particular formula for ‘perfect parenting’ and would rather go with the flow. She also mentioned that there will be plenty of help from their families, but the ultimate responsibility of caring for the child would lie with the parents alone.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BkFecl5Abkc/?taken-by=mirzasaniar
Both families have been very excited about the pregnancy and Sania’s sister, Anam, has been incredibly active taking care of Sania’s ever-gorgeous wardrobe and surprising her with a fun pyjama party (we LOVE the baby elephant costume she sported for this one!). The official baby shower was celebrated a few days ago.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BndA9rylIJI/?taken-by=mirzasaniar
https://www.instagram.com/p/BowCJuphAwT/?taken-by=theviralbollywoodnews
Coming to the big change that is going to take over her life, Sania had said that she was prepared for the sleepless nights ahead owing to certain discomforts she faced during the last trimester of her pregnancy. And when it comes to diaper-duty, she’s apparently looking forward to it! She also believes that once the timing is right, she doesn’t need to be by her baby’s side all day long to prove her worth as a good parent. As a progressive woman, she wants to set an example for her child to show that pregnancy and motherhood are, in no way, obstacles to a woman’s career or journey in life.
We wish the happy couple all the very best and plenty of happiness for their new journey ahead as parents, and can’t wait to see Sania back in action too! Read more
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Kidney Stones During Pregnancy
Kidney stones can be very painful to bear, especially when you are pregnant. While being pregnant does not increase your chances of getting kidney stones, it makes it complicated to diagnose and administer the usual methods of treatment due to the risks of harming the foetus. While most kidney stones may pass without the need for any treatment, some of them may cause intense pain. In such cases, medical treatment is recommended.
Causes of Kidney Stone During Pregnancy
Although being pregnant does not mean that you are at a higher risk of getting kidney stones, there are certain causes that can connect kidney stones and pregnancy. Some of the common causes of kidney stones during pregnancy are:
1. Lack of fluids: A common reason for kidney stones is the inadequate consumption of water. The lack of fluids in your body causes an increase in the concentration of minerals like phosphorous and calcium in the urine, which leads to the formation of kidney stones. During pregnancy, your body requires more water than usual. Drinking less than the required amount of water may thus lead to kidney stones.
2. Genetic predisposition: The genetic makeup of your body may also increase your chances of kidney stones. If you are from a family with a high incidence of hypercalciuria - a condition where there is an excess quantity of calcium in the urine - you may be more prone to kidney stones during pregnancy.
3. Bowel irritation: If you have gastrointestinal sensitivity, you may be prone to hypercalciuria or be at a higher risk of kidney stones. This is because chronic inflammation in the bowels may increase the number of calcium ions that are deposited on the kidneys, which then turn into crystals.
4. High calcium intake: Pregnant women are encouraged to consume more calcium - this may put extra pressure on the kidneys and cause crystal formation on the kidneys. Also, as your body absorbs a lot of calcium to aid the development of the baby, you may have a higher chance of getting kidney stones.
5. Increased filtration: Due to an increase in the filtration activity of the kidney, the amount of uric acid that you excrete may also increase, which may lead to uric acid stones.
6. Dilation of the uterus: The upper urinary tract may become large during pregnancy, which can cause an incomplete clearing of the urine and increase the risk of kidney stone formation.
7. UTIs: Constant urinary tract infections during pregnancy may be indicative of kidney stones.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of kidney stones during pregnancy aren’t unlike the usual ones. However, there are no specific symptoms that indicate kidney stones and any pregnancy complications caused due to it. Some of the common symptoms of kidney stones during pregnancy include:
1. Pain: Intense pain is one the first and the most common signs of kidney stones. The area of the pain is based on where the stone is, internally. If the stone is in your kidney, you will experience pain in the back, below the rib cage area. Once the stone moves down to the ureter, you will experience pain on the side of your body. As the stone moves further down the ureter, you may even feel pain near your genitals or in the thigh. Apart from this, you may also feel pain in your lower abdomen.
2. Pain during urination: If the stone has travelled down and is stuck at the lower end of the ureter, you are likely to have intense pain while urinating.
3. Blood in the urine: As the stones in the kidney move spontaneously, they may damage the tissues and the cells in the kidney. This may lead to blood in the urine.
Apart from these symptoms, you may also have vomiting, nausea, fever with chills (indicates infection), or may even feel some distension in the abdomen.
How Is Kidney Stone Diagnosed During Pregnancy?
A blood and urine analysis is performed to diagnose kidney stones during pregnancy. A urine test can identify blood, crystals of calcium or uric acid in the urine. A urine culture test can also recognise infection-causing organisms and determine what antibodies they are sensitive to.
A renal ultrasound may be conducted as it is a painless procedure that does not expose the foetus to radiation. However, the drawback of undergoing a renal ultrasound is that it cannot identify certain types of kidney stones and may not be able to identify the cause of an enlarged kidney (whether it is due to pregnancy or due to the obstruction caused by a kidney stone).
X-rays and CT scans are avoided to prevent any damage to the foetus. While an MRI is considered safe as it does not use radiation or contrast materials, it is still not advisable to use it to detect kidney stones during pregnancy.
Indications When Surgical Intervention Is Advised
If natural and conservative remedies do not work, you may have to opt for surgical intervention to get rid of kidney stones under these circumstances:
The stones that have obstructed the urinary tract have caused pyelonephritis or inflammation due to bacterial infection
If you have only one kidney
Acute kidney failure
Intense pain
Risk of premature labour due to kidney pain
How to Get Rid of Kidney Stones While Pregnant
If you notice any symptoms of kidney stones, it is advisable to consult a urologist for treatment options. Here are some of the methods used to get rid of kidney stones during pregnancy. Treatment methods are also dependent on the nature of your kidney stones and the trimester that you are in.
1. Medical Treatment
Paracetamols are prescribed to relieve pain caused due to kidney stones. However, in the event that medication fails to reduce your pain, or if there is any indication of preterm labour, you may need surgical intervention.
2. Surgical Treatment
Ureteroscopy – this procedure is used for diagnosis as well as for breaking down the stones. A small tube called a ureteroscope is inserted into the kidney, which passes through the ureter, the urethra, and the urinary bladder. The process uses a laser to break the stones. This procedure is only ideal for stones smaller than 1 cm.
Tube or stent placement – this procedure uses a hollow tube passed through the ureters to drain the urine and the stones. It is minimally invasive and needs local anaesthesia at most.
Shockwave therapy and open surgery - these are not prescribed to pregnant women due to risks to the foetus.
3. Natural/Home Remedies
Conservative methods and natural remedies are the most preferred treatment for kidney stones. Some of these include,
Intake of water: Drinking at least 8 glasses of water every day can help dilute the minerals and organic salts in the urine. It also helps clear small stones from the kidneys.
Fruits: Consuming fruits like watermelon, blueberries, peaches, and other fruits that have high water content is also beneficial.
Avoid commercial juices: Packaged juices have a high mineral (and possibly added sugar) and salt content which may make your condition worse.
Lemon: Lemon is known to break down medium-sized stones and also open up the ureters, helping the stones pass without much pain.
Apple Cider Vinegar: ACV contains acetic acid which dissolved kidney stones. Just adding a tablespoon or two to 1 litre of water and drinking it through the day can be helpful. However, make sure to check with your doctor as the consumption of ACV should be limited during pregnancy.
Basil Juice: Like ACV, basil contains acetic acid which can be helpful in breaking down kidney stones. Basil generally helps with inflammation as well. Simply take some fresh or dried basil leaves, boil them in water, and consume the tea. Avoid the prolonged consumption of this tea as it may cause problems like low blood pressure and blood sugar. Always consult with your doctor before trying any home remedy, especially during pregnancy.
Prevention
Some of the best ways to prevent kidney stones are:
Drink a lot of water. A minimum of two litres or eight glasses per day is essential.
Reduce your salt intake. Avoid junk food especially, as it may contain unhealthy amounts of monosodium chloride.
Avoid excess calcium. Keep your calcium intake under 1000 to 1200 mg per day.
Talk to your doctor about your medication. Certain medications can make a person susceptible to kidney stones. If you are on medication – any medication, regardless of whether you have been prescribed them during pregnancy – mention them to your doctor. In any case, however, do not stop consuming those medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Reduce your consumption of certain foods. Green leafy vegetables, chicken, fish, nuts, beetroot, chocolate, peanuts, beef, red meat, tea, and coffee can make a person more vulnerable to kidney stones.
Kidney stones can occur during pregnancy, and in most cases can be treated using natural treatment methods. However, in case the pain is severe, you will need to opt for medical or surgical treatments to alleviate it. Always remember to reach out to a doctor immediately after you notice symptoms of kidney stones to get the appropriate treatment method and avoid complications.
Also read: Hydronephrosis In Pregnancy Read more
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7 Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day If Food Is Your First Love
We all love our spouses, no doubt. But some of us just can’t deny the fact that we love food a bit more! Trust us- we totally understand what you’re going through if you’re cheating on your spouse with food! But then again, George Bernard Shaw rightly said, “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” So if you’re reading this, you obviously haven’t come here for tips on how to make this V-day special for your partner. In fact, you’re in the right place if you’re looking for some unique food ideas to food in every possible way, this V-day! So irrespective of whether you’re married, single or looking for some great treats for your kids, here’s a bunch of ways in which you can celebrate Valentine’s day with food, food and more food!
Ways to Celebrate Valentine's Day If You Are a Foodie
Here's how you can celebrate Valentine's day if food is your first love:
1. Treat Yourself
Obviously, if you want to make this day special, you’ve got to treat yourself with your favourite food. And we mean real treats - why settle for a pastry when you can have an entire cake? Or a small bucket of fries when you’re capable enough of consuming a large? Look at this day as your major cheat day, and don’t let your new year resolutions come in the way of enjoying with your one true love. Think about nothing but food. If food is truly your first love, then make sure you do justice. Treat yourself with every single thing that comes to mind – wine, sweets, or even street-side chaat!
2. Step out of Your Comfort Zone
If you’re truly a foodie, make this day special by adding more favourites to the never-ending list of food you love. What we mean is, go out fearlessly and try variations of your favourite food. For instance, if chocolate ice-cream has been your single favourite all these years, then show some courage, walk into that parlour, and get a scoop of a flavour that isn’t even remotely related to chocolate. You could even try food that you have never had before. Korean, Japanese, Burmese – think it and you shall have it!
3. Experiment with Your Favourite Food
This is yet another exciting challenge! When we think of treats, few of our favourites pop in mind and we eventually tend to settle for one of those. But you can experiment this V-day with your favourite food! Here’s an example: if you like fries as much as you like ice-cream, pair them up! Ditch ketchup and dip hot, crispy, salty fries in freezing ice-cream. Make weird combinations of your own and enjoy all the food you like, in pairs! Go ahead, give it a try. You might actually find new favourites this way! And what better occasion than Valentine’s day to fall in love with food all over again?
4. Cook for Yourself
Hands down, most of us foodies are excellent cooks! We enjoy the art of - let’s just call it - ‘creating love’. So to celebrate your love for food, what better than cooking up delicious treats? Numerous dishes top our list of favourites, but we refrain from cooking them at home solely because they are a bit more work. Give up on this habit this Valentine’s day, and cook yourself something nice. Sweet, spicy, sushi – your day, your wish! Cooking something for yourself will literally allow yourself to spend an entire day with your beloved – food!
5. Hunt for a Food Carnival
Most couples step out to celebrate their love for each other on V-day, which is why you’ll be surprised to see the number of events that happen all over the country. With a little bit of hunting, we’re sure you will succeed in finding a food carnival in your city! What is a food carnival? An event with multiple stalls selling a variety of exotic food and drinks! That surely is a place for foodies. It’s not just the food; fests like these also have fashion and retail stalls along with live band performances! There’s a whole lot for you to eat and enjoy at food fests. It’s just another way of treating yourself to a variety of good food!
6. Indulge in a Buffet
Speaking of variety, a buffet too is worth considering. You need not hunt for this one; buffets are readily available at a bunch of decent restaurants. Think about salads, soups, delicious mocktails, a couple appetisers, an exotic main course and heart melting desserts! Isn’t that something all foodies want every day? To celebrate your love for food, you can look for some high-end buffets - something that is a little out of the budget, but worth the try. Five-star restaurants always have these buffets running at prices that you wouldn’t imagine. But leave those thoughts for regular days. On Valentine’s day, you have a clean chit to go overboard! Besides, good food paired with luxury is a pretty great combination. Spend on your cravings; it’s never disappointing!
7. Spend the Day with Another Foodie
Double the love this V-day by spending it with a foodie just like you. You could enjoy each thrill mentioned above with someone who is equally crazy about food. After all, the more, the merrier! This day can truly turn out to be a food expedition for you - something you’re looking for when food is all you can think about. Cook, order in, eat out – all of it can be all the more fun when experienced with your food-twin. Plus, you’ll have the ideal company on the day of love.
So this Valentine’s day, instead of cooking up expectations, cook some delicious food! It’s not something to be ashamed of; know that love for food is the purest of all. Go ahead and eat to your heart’s content this Valentine’s day, because it is totally worth it if it makes you happy. Besides, food is not for the stomach, it’s for the heart! Happy eating!
Also Read:
Romantic Valentine Day Quotes, Wishes and Messages for Your Lovely Wife
Ways to Make Valentine's Day Wonderful for Your Wife
Tips to Plan a Surprise Valentine's Getaway with Your Partner Read more
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Review for "Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat With Handle Review"
Your Name: Arunita Mukherji
Age & Gender of child: 1.5 years
Product Name: Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat With Handle
Product Review
Reason to Buy:
As our baby is 1 year old, we wanted him to start doing potty in the natural way than in the diapers. While choosing for the same, we had to first decide on the type of potty trainer we wanna go for, between Baby Potty Chair and Potty Training Seat. We decided on the later as that would be a more natural and direct way of learning. Also, as we travel much, the Potty Training Seat looked to be more ideal for us, as it’s slim and light weight than the Baby Potty Chair. Once that was sorted, we had to choose from a long range of product lists, though making that choice became easy in a while, when we saw this Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat with Handle. As Babyhug is one of the most trusted brand when it comes to baby products. Babyhug has a wide variety of designs and great patterns in Cushioned Potty Training Seats, most of which has handles. Moreover, most of them fits well on to any commode size and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry while travelling.
Durable:
The product is strong and sturdy, making it safe for my baby’s use.
Comfortable:
Nice U-shaped padding on the seat makes it soft on my baby’s bums.
Steady:
The product is easy to fit and fits our commode perfectly. It has four foam padding at the bottom side which gives the potty training seat a strong grip on the commode or on the commode seat, making it anti-skid. My baby holds the handles which makes him feel safe and stable.
Smooth:
The product has good finishing and rounded edges, so it does not hurt my baby.
Portable:
The product is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel.
Cleaning:
Cleaning the product is very easy too. It gets cleaned just by using a mild soap and water.
Q1. What is your overall take on Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat With Handle?
Ans: Nice, sturdy and comfortable product.
Q2. What did you like about Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat With Handle?
Ans: The steadiness and comfortableness of the product.
Q3. Any suggestions or feedback for Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat With Handle?
Ans: None.
Q4. Please rate the product for the following on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being highest)
Parameter Your Rating
Features 5
Product Design 5
Performance (basis features) 5
Value for Money 5
Q5. Would you recommend Babyhug Cushioned Potty Training Seat With Handle? (Yes/No)
Ans: Yes. Read more
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My little secrets of raising a happy, loving and confident child
On 14th May, 2016, I gave birth to a lovely child, whom we named Shriti. Taking her in my arms for the first time, I was awestruck by her innocence. I believe this is experienced by every mother. As parents, we are always concerned about our children’s
future. Children’srealjourney starts right from the moment theystepoutside their houses.Every observation is a new learning for them. When they start their school, they not only get introducedto a new set of people
but also toa different environment. Within few months/years ofschool days, parents may get an idea of their children’s interest and capabilities. This, I believe, is the most important role of a parent, which establishesthe child’s growth
trajectory.
Since my little one is just 4 years, she is atexploring stage and wants to learnall the skills,be it dance, music, taekwondo andskating. But I make sure that I never force her to do any of these activities. Ialwaysoffer
her to learn, but it isup to her to take the opportunity or not. I never judge her decisionsbecause of her age.
I am not sure till what stage I will have a definite idea of what my daughter wants to pursue in her life.But I am not in hurry!
I will aim to identify her best skill and hone it the way she wants. If I talk about our currenteducation system, all I can say is it needs to customizefrom the very 1st stage according to the students’ interest. I always wonder, in these
days,affording a good school is more like a luxury for any middle class family. Even after spending a heavy amount to schools, we send our children to learn about any non-academic skill to a different coach. Why cannot schoolsoffer
us a full package where our children can choose their field according to their interest?
But, we as parent need to change our expectations from our children firstbefore the education system. We need to create a supporting environment for ourchildren’s interest.
We should always prepare our child toface failure. Let them know that successand failureare two sides of a coin, when you flip it, it’s either success or failure.
Ifyour childrenenjoy inwhatever they aredoing, they do not need to see how the coin flipped. They already won!
If I encourage my daughter to do what she enjoys, I am confident that she will excel in that area. It will not be a compulsion orduty for her if the area of work is of her interest. And,this will give you the best results of parenting, which
is "a happy child"!
Let your childrenexcel in what they choose and not what you choose for them.
Read more
Rashmi has added a new answer
4 hours ago
Q. Breastfeeding is not sufficient for my baby (20 days old) so doctor asks to give formula milk also. how to increase breast milk naturally?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
48 mins ago
A. Consumer balance diet include more of proteins into your diet fibre into your child all kind of fruits and vegetables specially green vegetables is completely fine to be used other than that also I’m going to recommend you that you should have good amount of liquid and also also please you can take Shatavari powder it’s a very good lactation supplement to you
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. at first upt kit show faint line after that it is showing negative. does is it mean that we are not pregnant
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
58 mins ago
A. It doesn’t mean anything because that means there is no clarity in the picture as of now you have to have to take a blood test to have better clarity on this because the tests are basically more confusing as of now so it’s better to check with a proper blood test
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. I used prega news pt kit. first I got the faint line. and day after tomorrow, another time I used prega news pt kit but I got negative. what does it mean? whether I am pregnant or not?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
59 mins ago
A. I think it’s better that you have a sonography with your doctor because this way even I cannot suggest you because you’ve got both the test so how can we sure about what the result is going to be going to be for you to check with your doctor regarding this as sonography can actually clear the picture for you
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexpert
what does it mean if a faint line was followed by negative line?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. Saint Line usually means positive only but for further more if you want to go ahead with a clarity on that then you can get a beta HCG on an ultrasound with your doctor because one line is usually visible and second is faint right so it is positive
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
55 mins ago
Q. the product didn't received today
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
39 mins ago
A. Kindly get in touch with the concerned department for that they can help you with the situation that is there over here I can assist you with your queries if you have any associated with parenting but for this issue you have to check with them
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
55 mins ago
Q. my product didn't received today
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
37 mins ago
A. Call on the number you must have received for the delivery guy you can talk to them about it otherwise kindly call on the helpline number and get in touch with associated Dept as they only can give you proper assistance and help us for the query that you have
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