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Facts and Information About Starfish for Kids
Starfish have always fascinated children and adults. Starfish are also called sea stars and no doubt, they are one of the most beautiful creatures found in the ocean. If you want to learn more about starfish, read on.
15 Interesting Facts About Starfish for Children
If you have wondered what these wonderful creatures are and how they live, here are 15 sea star facts that you need to know.
1. Starfish Are Not Fish
Starfish are not really fish. They are echinoderms. The echinoderms usually have five arms. These marine invertebrates are more closely related to sea urchins, sea cucumber, and sand dollar.
2. They Are Invertebrates
Unlike real fish which are vertebrates with a backbone and a skeleton, starfish are invertebrates; they do not have a true internal skeleton. They do have ‘ossicles’ which are calcium carbonate plates that take on the role of an endoskeleton and form spines and granules to offer structural rigidity to them.
3. Starfish Do Not Have a Brain
Starfish do not have a brain. They do have a system of nerves and nerve plexus below their skin that perform the function of a nervous system. They are perceptive to touch, light, and temperature.
4. Some Starfish Can Have As Many As 50 Arms
Most starfish have spiny skin and 5 arms but some of the specials can have up to 50 arms.
5. Starfish Cannot Survive in Freshwater
There are over 2000 different species of starfish, and they are all marine. They cannot be found in freshwater lakes or rivers.
6. They Do Not Have Blood
Starfish do not have a circulatory system to transport nutrients and waste throughout the body. Instead, they use circulating seawater through their vascular system.
7. They Move Using Their Tube Feet
Starfish use tube feet, located on their underside to move. The tubes get filled with seawater, and the muscles in the tube feet manipulate it to extend or contract.
8. Most Starfish Are Carnivores
Most starfish are carnivores, and they have specialised body parts to feed on other organisms such as clams, mussels, and even injured fish. Most of them have an unusual ability to consume their prey outside the body by pushing their stomachs out of their mouth over the prey and then withdrawing it to digest the food. Some species are omnivores and eat plant matter along with the animals. Some of them are also detritivores; they eat decomposing plant and animal matter at the bottom of the ocean.
9. Starfish Have Eyespots
Like most other marine invertebrates of its kind, starfish do not have eyes. They do have tiny eyespots on the tips of their arms which allow them to tell the difference between dark and bright. They use these eyespots to detect moving objects such as prey and potential threats.
10. They Have an Incredible Ability to Regenerate
One of the most impressive things starfish can do is to regenerate their whole body. For instance, if a predator eats almost the whole of the starfish except one arm, that arm can over a period of time regenerate the whole body back. The process is slow and could take up to a year if it is not attacked or killed again. If the starfish is cut in half, it will grow into two different starfish!
11. They Can Change Their Gender When Needed
Although starfish are distinctly male and female (they are not hermaphrodites), environmental conditions can prompt them to change their gender in their lifetime. They also use regeneration as a method of asexual reproduction.
12. Some Starfish Have a Lifespan of 35 Years
The lifespan of starfish depends on the species. The smaller ones weighing as little as 2 grams can live up to 10 years. Some bigger ones take five years to reach maturity and can live for as long as 35 years.
13. Starfish Aren't Social Creatures
Yes, they like to be alone. Starfish are solitary and prefer spending time alone. However, when they have to feed, they prefer hanging out in large groups.
14. Their Size Varies
Starfish, depending on the species, can range between the sizes of 1 cm and 65 cm. The biggest starfish species called the sunflower starfish can grow up to over 90 cms and weigh as much as 5 kgs!
15. Some Starfish Can Be Kept as Pets
One of the fun facts about starfish is that several species of starfish can be introduced into marine aquariums that have regulated temperature and salinity as they are sensitive to both the parameters. They usually feed off the plant, animal and bacterial matter on the aquarium floor and keep the water clean. So they function both as pets and water filters!
Starfish are fascinating marine creatures. They are found in almost all the oceans of the world. They strange abilities have allowed them to adapt and live in the ocean for a long time. We hope you like these facts and information about starfish. Read them to your kids, they will love knowing about starfish for sure.
Also Read:
Educative Aquatic Animals Information for Kids
Blue Whale Facts for Kids
Fun & Amazing Animal Facts for Kids Read more
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Communication in Marriage - Importance and Tips to Improve
If someone asks you what the true basis of a happy married life is, you may say love, commitment, honesty and other such things. However, how often do we talk about the importance of communication in a marriage? Just because two people are spending most of their time under one roof, does not mean that they communicate effectively with each other. To sustain a happy marriage and have a strong bond with your spouse, it is essential that there is effective communication between the two. Communication is not just about words; it is about actions or non-verbal communication that holds great significance too. Let us acquaint you with the importance of communication, tips to improve it and various other aspects related to it, in the following post.
Importance of Communication in a Marriage
Why id communication so important to have a long, fulfilling relationship with your better-half? What is the role of communication in marriage? Well, here are some points that emphasise the importance of communication in marriage:
1. No Communication Implies No Interest
If you do not know what is happening in your partner’s life or what issues they may be dealing with, you may not be able to understand or empathise. This would slowly lead to a lack of interest in each other’s lives and thus, strained relationships; therefore, it is important to have effective communication.
2. Better Understanding
Couples who often talk, discuss their lives or communicate with each regularly not only have a better understanding with each other, but it also helps them to have a stronger bond with each other. When you understand your spouse and the situations they may be dealing with, there would be lesser scope for misunderstanding or ambiguity.
3. Better Martial Satisfaction
If you have opened the doors of effective communication with your spouse, you are more likely to experience a happy and peaceful relationship. Better communication means better satisfaction in a relationship in which you discuss everything with each other and thus lesser fights or quarrels.
4. Better Trust, Honesty and Respect
Marriage is a two-way street, you cannot just keep expecting everything without giving. Therefore, if you are honest with your spouse and give and receive positive feedback or share other issues with complete honesty, it helps in building better trust in a relationship.
5. Better Connection
Communication is a way of expressing your feelings and emotions towards your spouse. We understand that it is not important to express in words the love and affection that you have for your spouse. However, being expressive and vocal is one of the best ways of exhibiting your emotions towards your spouse, which would lead to a better connection.
Common Mistakes Couples Make in a Marriage and How to Solve Them
Here are some common mistakes that most of us usually make and how we can solve them effectively:
1. More 'Me' in a Marriage
When you get married, the relationship is for both of you. However, sometimes we may forget that, and marriage becomes more about you than about your spouse. For example, on your anniversary every year, you want your husband to make you feel special and take you out to dinner, you would only plan a holiday when you can take leave, you would go only to places you prefer, etc. All this shows that your happiness or consent is more important than your partner’s.
How to Resolve
It is important that you consider your partner’s interests too. This would be possible when you communicate better with each other. Talk to your partner and know what they like or dislike, or what their idea of celebration or other such things is.
2. Shouting at The Spouse
Every relationship has its ups and downs, and these are bound to happen. However, if your spouse makes a mistake no matter how trivial or grave it is, it is not okay to shout or say nasty things to your spouse. It is imperative to understand that everyone makes mistakes, and when you shout or scold your spouse, you say hurtful things. Words uttered in anger often scar the other person’s feelings or emotions and it can be more evident when there is less or zero communication in a marriage.
How to Resolve
Even if you have a valid point to get angry, don’t be. Make sure you subtly put across your point without creating any ill feelings or negativity. Best is, you wait until you let your anger pass away and then talk to your spouse about it. The point is not to show displeasure or disappointment, but it is about not committing the same mistake again.
3.Do Not Compare or Compete
One of the silliest mistakes that married couples can make is comparing or competing with their spouse. This mistake may be more pronounced or evident in people with similar professional backgrounds or jobs. You may gloat about your professional achievements or accomplishments with your spouse or talk about their failures or setbacks negatively. Well, it is acceptable to have a competitive spirit or healthy competition with each other, but at no point should you demean your spouse, and lack of communication in marriage can worsen the situation.
How to Resolve
The first and foremost thing to understand is that even if you are doing separate jobs, you both are a single entity or bonded with love - this means your relationship is supreme than anything else. Be encouraging if your spouse fails and be proud when your spouse excels. There is no room for any kind of comparison or competition between two people who love each other.
Different Ways of Effective Communication to Strengthen Your Marriage
You can have various types of communication with your spouse and strengthen the bond of your marriage. If you wish to know how to communicate in a relationship effectively or how to open communication in a marriage, well, here are some ways you can do that:
1. Informal Communication
You discuss everything that matters or other silly things that happened during the day. You laugh together and have a great time talking about some light-hearted aspects of life. This kind of communication helps in building a stronger bond with your spouse because you share fun and happy moments together.
2. Talk About Challenges
Every marriage has lows and highs, and it is important to discuss and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your marriage with each other. Such conversations help the relationship to grow and also assist in making any important changes or decisions in life.
3. Life-giving Communication
This is a proactive kind of conversation that is not instigated due to some need or demand, unlike the communications mentioned above. These types of communications emphasise having insightful discusses that includes talking about your fears, desires, dreams, hopes, etc. This includes meaningful conversations that can lead to meaningful relationships. These are very intimate conversations as it gives you glimpses of your spouse’s inner life.
Dos and Don’ts to Improve Your Communication in Marriage
We shall now discuss some marriage communication tips or some dos and don’ts that you need to practice to improve your communication in marriage:
1. Try and Be Specific
Whenever you wish to make a point, make sure you are specific about it. Don't beat around the bush or talk about random things that are insignificant. Avoid generalising by making statements like “You always say/do this”. This may not solve the purpose; instead, you may end up hurting your spouse.
2. Be Respectful
No matter what kind of conversation you and your spouse are having, it is important to be respectful towards it. By being a good listener, you show that you respect your partner. When you listen, your partner will do the same when you have to say something.
3. Do Not Nag or Taunt
No one likes getting picked on or nagged, and the same holds true for your spouse. You cannot keep making your partner guilty or responsible for his past mistakes whenever you wish to make a point. Your partner wants to feel loved and wanted, and every time you taunt your partner, it not only causes hurt and pain, but it also affects your relationship. Also, never drag in family members or friends when you have arguments.
4.Do Not Jump to Conclusions
Do not assume things or cook up your own stories without having a word with your spouse. You may get angry that your spouse did not pick up your call without even understanding or giving them a chance to explain why it happened. Talk to your spouse about what is bothering you regarding them and know the truth behind their side of the story.
5. Have Regular Conversations
No matter how busy you are or how much work you have to do, make sure you take out some time in a day to have some meaningful conversation with your spouse. If you cannot think of anything to talk, get goofy or silly and share some hearty laughs with each other. It is very important to communicate with your spouse on a regular basis to keep the love flowing in the relationship.
6. No Blame Games
Even if you are mad because your spouse did something wrong, it is not recommended to start playing the blame game. Possibly your spouse may have had self-realisation that a mistake was committed and necessary measures may have been taken to make amends. However, even if there are no realisations, it is always better to put across a point subtly and politely rather than hitting the other person with all the blames.
7. Don’t Rely on Online Chatting
When you are away at work or away from home, chatting through a medium of online chatting is convenient to an extent, but it cannot substitute meaningful one to one conversations or phone conversations. Sometimes online modes of communication can lead to misunderstandings and confusions and may strain happy relationships.
8. Don’t Be Defensive
If your partner needs to bring out some complaints or issues against you, it is important to listen to them intently without being defensive about it. It is equally hard for your partner to bring his or her own flaws in front of you. Make sure you listen and take effective measures to solve the issue rather than getting all defensive about the whole issue.
9. Be Tolerant
We all have different preferences, likes or dislikes, and the same goes for two people who are married to each other. You may like watching cricket but your spouse loves tennis; be appreciative and tolerant of each other’s hobbies, choices and other such aspects instead of complaining about them. Because when you become receptive, your partner will too.
10. Express Positive Feelings
Most of us may talk about our worries, tensions, fears and other such negative feelings more than we talk about positive feelings like love, compassion, humility etc. Make sure you include more positive talks, which would include complimenting each other, showing love and care and other such positive feelings.
Communication in a marriage plays a much more vital role than we can fathom. It is important to open channels to have clear and meaningful communication with your spouse so that there is trust and understanding, which means a better relationship with your spouse.
Also Read:
Ways to Become Your Spouse’s Best Friend
What are the Healthy Habits of Happy Couples
Ways to Re-build Intimacy in Marriage with Your Spouse
Go Beyond the Communication to Solve Marriage Problems Read more
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A Guide to Common Skin Conditions in Children
Rashes, bumps or welts on a toddler’s skin occur due to some common allergies, sickness, heat and cold that cause changes in the skin. These are not usually harmful, and can be treated easily.
Toddlers are exposed to the outside environment a lot more than babies are. Though they are stronger than newborns, their immune systems are still developing and are not robust enough to withstand every infection or allergic reaction. Parents need to detect these conditions and get medical help to treat the problem for speedy recovery.
Video: 6 Common Skin Problems in Children
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93Zac7m_wqE
Common Rashes and Skin Problems in Kids
1. Chickenpox
This used to be quite a common rash among toddlers, but with the introduction of various vaccines, its occurrence has reduced considerably. It is contagious and spreads fast. Sometimes, it can leave itchy rashes and red marks.
Symptoms of Chickenpox in Children
It is easily detected as the child’s body is covered in blister-like itchy rashes. These marks take time to heal. They burst, dry up and then form a crust. It can be accompanied with fever.
Treatment of Chickenpox in Children
You must vaccinate your child in the prescribed age to avoid chickenpox. A mild cream can be applied on the blisters to soothe the itching after consulting your doctor.
2. Ring-worms
This is a common skin problem in toddlers and is caused due to a fungus which lives off dead skin, nail tissues or hair. It can be acquired from other children or animals. If the child shares his clothes or toys with an infected toddler, he could get the rash too. It usually affects scalp, feet and groin but can occur anywhere in the body.
Symptoms of Ring-worms in Toddlers
It starts as a red patch or a bump and transforms into an itchy red ring-like rash. It has scaly or blistery borders and is highly contagious.
Treatment of Ring-worms in Toddlers
Doctors usually prescribe anti-fungal creams for treatment. In case it affects the scalp of the child, then the specialist would recommend an anti-fungal shampoo or medicine.
3. Fifth Disease
This is contagious and is a mild illness which lasts for a couple of weeks in toddlers. It spreads through coughs and sneezes and is the most contagious before the rash appears.
Symptoms of Fifth Disease in Children
The fifth disease has flu-like symptoms and can be recognised by body rash, especially red cheeks.
Treatment of Fifth Disease in Children
This condition can be treated with adequate rest, pain relievers and fluids. Avoid giving aspirin without doctor’s recommendation. If an expecting mother’s first child is suffering from fifth disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor right away.
4. Warts
These are caused due to viruses and are mostly painless and do not cause any damage. They are highly contagious and also spread when you touch an object used by a person who is infected with the virus. Children must be prevented from biting nails as a preventive measure.
Symptoms of Warts in Toddlers
They are usually found on hands and fingers. They are mostly of skin-colour, but can be dark and rough sometimes. Plantar warts can grow on the feet.
Treatment of Warts in Toddlers
Cover them with bandages meant especially for warts or let them heal by themselves as there is no treatment for the condition.
5. Prickly Heat
Sweat causes prickly heat which are basically heat rashes. This usually happens during summer time or by putting on warm and tight clothes on the child.
Symptoms of Prickly Heat in Children
These rashes look like small pimples in red or pink color. They appear on the child’s head, shoulders and neck.
Treatment of Prickly Heat in Children
Most of the times they clear up on their own. In addition, prickly heat powder in combination with an anti-fungal soap available over the counter can be used. You can find a safe prickly heat powder here too.
6. Eczema
Children who are prone to eczema have allergies and asthma as well. The exact reason isn’t clear, but kids with low immune system face this problem. Be careful about rashes with dry skin or intense itching. Atopic dermatitis is a very common type of this disease. It outgrows with time or have milder cases once children grow up.
Symptoms of Eczema in Kids
Atopic eczema usually appears near the elbows, back of knees, ears and eyes. The skin becomes itchy, red and dry.
Treatment of Eczema in Kids
Apply a mild soap and moisturiser over the infected area. You can buy a skin-friendly gentle soap for your baby. Avoid steaming hot baths as they can further dry up the skin. Consult a doctor for medicated creams and ointments that reduce the itching.
Take care of your child’s skin by maintaining a hygienic routine and making him wash his hands regularly to keep infections at bay. As soon as you notice something unusual that is making the child uncomfortable, consult a doctor. Read more
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#MummasTouch Chocolate Cake in 5 mins
Whenever I feel sad... My mom used to make this cake to make me feel happy...
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
5 People
5 - 10 min
5 - 10 min
Ingredients
1 cup wheat flour
1 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup refined oil
1/4 cup coco powder
1/2 tsp soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1 cup milk
1/2 tsp vanilla essence
1/2 cup walnuts
Method
Step 1
Take a mixing bowl and put in all the dry ingredients.
Step 2
Mix properly, make a well in the centre and pour in all the wet ingredients.
Step 3
Mix in one direction slowly.
Step 4
Lastly, add walnuts.
Step 5
Grease a microwave proof cake mould.
Step 6
Pour in the prepared batter.
Step 7
Microwave for 5 minutes.
Step 8
Serve with vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce.
Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
13 hours ago
Q. which good formula milk or baby food for 4 months old baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
13 hours ago
A. no complementary foods below 4 months can use any branded formula milk. 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 Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
13 hours ago
Q. Iam 9month pregnant and having very painful condition due to constipation and gastric issues
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
13 hours ago
A. during pregnancy better not to take medicines for constipation take lot of water green leafy vegetables seasonal fruits you can try suppository if the problem is more o k o k
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
11 hours ago
Q. hi Doc,
eating raw mango, chapathi or any heat producing foods cause miscarriage during first trimester?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. no relation ok c. 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 Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
10 hours ago
Q. Hi Doc,
I'm getting cramps on my right side of lower stomach. is this normal or do I have to visit doc?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. without examination it is difficult to tell proper treatment as well as advice so you should visit the doctor5 for health assessment as well as examination.
whether any investigations is required or not will be told by the doctor5
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. i am 39 week of pregnant and having AFI level of 8 is this normal?and is delivery possible for me?
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
21 mins ago
A. yes. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the childdo ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Vandana Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. please tale me how much dengerous for may 7 days old baby and she was 2.9 kg.
Vandana Sharma
Nutritionist
14 mins ago
A. Hello mom the blood sugar level of baby is quite low , could say hypoglycemia as well .
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