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20 Foods That Cause and Relieve Constipation in Babies
If you are new parents, discussing your baby’s pooping habits must be a regular thing now. You’ll be surprised at how much you think, discuss, and worry about your baby’s poop schedule. If your baby has a hard time passing stool or passes a lot of gas daily, then without a doubt, you will worry and might think of consulting your baby's paediatrician at odd hours. We understand your concern, but there is no need to panic. Your little one might be suffering from constipation, and it is very common in babies and toddlers.
A child's pooping habits will depend on his eating habits. There are some foods which tend to constipate babies, especially when you start giving them solid foods. Read on to know about the various foods that can cause and relieve constipation in children, and find out how you can ensure that your child has a good bowel movement.
Foods That Cause Constipation in Infants
If your child has just started eating solid foods and he is having difficulty in passing stool or has a dry and hard stool, then it is a sign of constipation. Baby's fluid intake and diet will determine his bowel movements. Here is a list of foods that cause constipation in babies.
1. Milk Protein
Milk protein can cause constipation in babies. Milk proteins other than in the breast milk can cause this problem, and as a parent, you need to be careful once you start giving formula milk to your baby. Sometimes, babies may even develop an allergy to the protein present in breast milk, which may result in constipation.
2. Formula Food
Babies are often fed formula in their early years. Formula food consists of ingredients that are difficult to digest, which might result in constipation. Formula milk even contains complex proteins that may harden the poop and thus cause constipation.
3. Rice
Rice and porridge are the two solid food for babies that most mothers think of introducing as the first food to their babies. But some babies may find it hard to digest rice and may feel constipated.
4. Carrots
Carrots, when given raw or in the form of juice, are usually good for babies. But, if you feed steam-cooked carrots to your baby, then he might feel constipated. Steamed carrots tend to solidify the poop making it difficult for babies to excrete.
5. Raw Bananas
Babies are often fed raw bananas, as cooked vegetable, or as a porridge made out of sun-dried raw banana powder. Although giving a ripe banana is good, unripe banana is not. If you give an unripe banana to your baby, he might feel constipated and have gastric problem. Under-ripe or unripe bananas have starch in them, which can be hard for a baby to digest.
6. Apples
Apples are known to harden the stool so eating them while suffering from diarrhoea can help. But steamed apples, a popular baby food, can cause constipation in babies. So don't give steamed apples to your baby. Also avoid giving applesauce to your baby as it contains pectin protein, which hardens the stool.
7. Cheese
Cheese is an excellent source of many essential vitamins and minerals and is a superfood for babies. It is usually given to babies as a snack. However, cheese is low in fibre and can cause constipation.
8. White Bread
White bread, made with all-purpose flour, is a processed form of grain and is low in fibre. Fibrous foods are known to improve digestion. However, white bread lacks fibre in substantial quantity and can cause constipation in babies.
9. Potatoes
Regular potatoes with skin have about 3 gm of fibre and can prevent constipation. If you give your baby potatoes with other veggies, then it won't be a problem. However, if you give him potato chips or potatoes with butter or sour cream, then he may suffer from constipation.
10. Yoghurt
Yoghurt contains good bacteria that facilitate digestion. But, it also has a binding effect on food substances and sometimes may cause constipation in children.
Foods That Help Relieve Constipation in Infants
Now that you know which foods cause constipation in babies, so avoid incorporating them into your baby’s diet. If your baby is already suffering from constipation, then include these high-fibre foods in your baby’s diet. These foods will not only relieve the condition but also prevent it from occurring in future.
1. Prunes
Prunes are rich in fibre and a great source of multivitamins. Being a good source of fibre, they can ease and speed up the bowel movements. Prunes can be soaked overnight and given to a baby first thing in the morning. You can also give your baby prune juice. Prunes and prune juice are an excellent remedy for constipation.
2. Beans
Beans are packed with fibre and can be included in a baby's diet if he is suffering from constipation. Eating beans will improve his bowel movements. As beans contain both soluble and insoluble fibre, it will help in digestion of food and help your little one excrete properly.
3. Green Peas
Fresh green peas available in winters are loaded with fibre - they are a perfect food to include in your baby's diet if he is constipated. Peas can be given as a simple snack by just boiling and seasoning. Infants can be given boiled peas in the pureed form to aid bowel movements.
4. Apricots
Apricots are another seasonal fruit used for treating constipation. It can be given raw or in the form of juice. Dried apricots are also available in the market, which can be soaked overnight and given to babies.
5. Oatmeal
Oatmeal, a common and widely preferred food for babies, is an excellent food for children with recurrent episodes of constipation. Oatmeal can provide your baby with much-needed fibre and can prevent constipation.
6. Pears
Pears are rich in fibre and Vitamin C. Both fibre and Vitamin C aid in proper digestion and relieve constipation. Babies can also be given a few drops of fresh pear juice to cure constipation.
7. Broccoli
Broccoli, a superfood for babies, is a rich source of protein and fibre. Broccoli is also a good source of fibre, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. Green vegetables like spinach and broccoli add weight to stools, making them easier to pass through the gut. You can give small steamed broccoli florets to your baby as finger food. Broccoli also contains sulforaphane, which may protect the gut and aid digestion.
8. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, unlike other tubers, are one of the best baby foods and they do not cause constipation. Sweet potatoes can help in relieving constipation and provide essential nutrients and carbohydrates to your growing baby.
9. Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants and are an excellent food for babies and toddlers. They are also high in fibre, which is why they are a must-include in your baby’s diet. You can give berries to your baby in pureed form. By eating berries, your little tot won’t complain of constipation.
10. Whole Grain Bread
Whole grains foods have high fibre content in them, which is good for the heart as well as for the digestive system. You can give whole wheat bread to your baby - it is high in fibre and will prevent constipation in your little one.
FAQs
1. How Will You Know That Your Baby is Constipated?
If your baby is constipated, he obviously won’t be unable to communicate that to you. So watch out for these signs of constipation in him -
He has three or fewer than three bowel movements in a week.
His stools are hard and dry.
He has a hard time pooping.
He cries continuously and has a stomach ache.
2. How Can You Prevent Constipation in Your Baby?
To prevent and treat constipation in babies, here’s what you can do:
If your baby has crossed the six-month mark, you can make him sip water in small amounts. Before six months, he will get all the hydration he needs through breast milk. Later, you can start with foods that contain water and fibre, as water and fibre will improve his bowel movements.
Include high-fibre foods in his diet. Make prunes, berries, whole grains, and pulses in his diet as they are high in fibre content and aid digestion.
Get your child into the habit of pooping. Once he is ready for potty training, make sure you make him sit on the toilet seat for at least 10 minutes at about the same time daily. It will get him into the habit of going to the toilet.
Many times, parents go through a lot of stress when their babies suffer from constipation. If your child is constipated, don’t worry. By making slight changes in his diet and encouraging him to do some physical activity (however, small) regularly can cure constipation and other stomach-related problems in him. However, if the problem persists and your baby doesn’t feel better, consult a doctor.
Also Read: Indigestion in Children Read more
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How to Use Cloth Diapers for Babies
Cloth diapers can be a great alternative to the regular packaged diapers. They are more environment friendly and cost only a fraction of the use-and-throw variety. Traditionally, cloth diapers were the standard ones but in modern times, diapers have taken over because of the convenience they offer. These use-and-throw diapers are non-biodegradable and will take hundreds of years before they finally break down. They are also made from harmful chemicals that you might not be comfortable exposing your baby to. A final nail in the coffin for these type of diapers is that they end up in landfills just like the rest of your waste and rag pickers scour the landfill to find anything of value. The diapers expose them to disease and sickness.
Cloth diapers have come a long way and offer real solutions to parents who are environmentally conscious. If you are looking to make a more responsible choice and want to make the shift to cloth diapers for your baby, read on about how to use reusable cloth diapers.
Types Of Cloth Diapers
With more and more parents looking for ecologically friendly options, companies have started to make a wide variety of cloth diapers. Each type has its own benefits and learning what you will find most convenient is the first step towards choosing the right cloth diaper for your baby. Keep in mind that no one diaper will fit all your baby’s needs and you will have to try out a few in order to figure out which one suits your baby best and under which circumstances.
1. All-In-One Cloth Diapers
All-in-one diapers are a fuss-free option that comes with an absorbent pad already attached to the cloth. When the time comes to wash the diaper, the entire thing can be put into the washer. This option is a bit bulkier than other cloth diapers in the market and is more expensive. However, this option is ideal for when you want to take your baby out or when your baby is being looked after by a caretaker.
2. All-In-Two Cloth Diapers
All-in-two cloth diapers come with a removable absorbent pad that can be washed separately. The entire cloth diaper does not have to be washed and you can just reinsert a fresh absorbent pad into the diaper for the next use. These pads have a high absorption level making it ideal for the night time or for heavy wetters. This diaper gives you more flexibility for your laundry cycle because of its separate moving parts.
3. Prefold Cloth Diapers
Prefold diapers are essentially a big cotton rectangle that can be moulded by you to fit your baby’s unique shape. This is then secured by a cover. The cover and the diaper are two separate pieces and can be washed independently from each other. You can also only change the diaper cloth and use the same cover to hold the diaper in place. This type of diaper is one of the cheapest types of cloth diapers available on the market and the pack will contain information on how to use prefold cloth diapers.
4. Fitted Cloth Diapers
Unlike the prefold cloth diapers, fitted cloth diapers fit the baby’s curves better. The legs have gussets making the diapers leak proof. However, it is recommended that you use a cover on top of the fitted cloth diaper. This diaper is made from fleece and this material traditionally holds smells for longer.
5. Hybrid Cloth Diapers
This type of diapers is very similar to the all-in-two diapers. They have a slot for the reusable or disposable insert. However, with hybrid cloth diapers, these inserts are biodegradable and are chemical free ensuring the safety of your child. Hybrid cloth diapers are extremely good for the environment and if you choose to you the reusable insert, are pocket-friendly in the long run too.
Choose the Right Diaper
With each type of diaper comes its own advantages and disadvantages. When choosing a cloth diaper a simple factor that you must consider is the reason why you want to use a cloth diaper in the first place. If you want to use cloth diapers because you want to save money, then you should look into prefold cloth diapers. If the environment is your concern, then almost all of the cloth diapers help the environment in some way or form and using reusable inserts instead of the disposable type can go a long way in your cause.
Be sure to check if the diapers you are choosing to buy are labelled one size. This means that the diaper can be adjusted as your baby grows and you will not have to buy new diapers. In fact, these diapers can then be used for future siblings as well. In case the diaper type is not one size, then you will have to buy diapers to suit the size and age of your baby.
The ultimate factor is, of course, your baby and what suits her. You should try out a few types of cloth diapers and see what suits your baby’s needs and preferences. A heavy wetter will need a more robust absorption pad.
Easy Tips for Changing a Cloth Diaper
There are many things that you can follow in order to keep your cloth diaper experience positive especially if you are a newbie at the whole thing.
Change the cloth diaper often: Babies are prone to getting diaper rash and this can be avoided if you change the diaper often. Typically, a baby will go through 10-12 diaper changes a day.
If you suspect that your baby has got a yeast diaper rash, then you must seek help from the paediatrician to prevent any further complications.
Use anything to make the diaper change easier for you and the baby. Keep her attention engaged on other things like toys, mirrors, or pictures.
Make sure that you have enough cloth diapers on hand. This number will depend on how often you will be doing the laundry. If your laundry cycle is every day, then you should have 18 diapers on hand. For a laundry cycle that is every other day or once in three days, then you will need 2 to three dozen cloth diapers.
Use a liner to keep your diaper bin fresh and free from leaking smells.
Washing Cloth Diapers/Nappies
Most parents are worried about how to store the cloth diaper before their wash cycle. The best way is to rinse the used nappy and then store them in a dry bin until you pop them into the washing machine. For the actual washing process, you can follow the steps below:
Remove the insert from the diaper before putting it for a wash.
Use the washing machine on the highest water setting.
Do not add any detergent and give the diapers a cold rinse.
After the rinse, you can wash the diapers on a regular hot wash setting with ¼ cup detergent. However, if you are using a detergent made specifically for cloth diapers, then follow the instructions given by the detergent.
As the last step, give the diapers a cold rinse.
How Many Cloth Diapers would you Need for your Baby?
A newborn baby will run through 14 to 16 diaper changes per day. This number will reduce as your baby gets older. The number of diapers you will need will depend entirely on your washing cycle. If you are going to wash the diapers every day, then you will need 18 cloth diapers. If your wash cycle is once every two days, then you will need two dozen diapers and if you are doing your laundry once in three days, then you should have 36 diapers on hand.
You should try out all the different types of diapers available to find one that will suit your baby's needs. Do not order the diapers in bulk as you don't want to be stuck with 20 boxes of diapers that aren't working for your baby. Some companies will even send you sample diapers for you to test out before you decide. You might even find that a couple of different types of cloth diapers will suit your various needs. You might pick one type for going out and another for the night time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ones. You can also talk to other parents who use cloth diapers for their babies. Ultimately, you will need to settle on the one that is most comfortable for your little one. If you baby acts cranky and is easily irritated with one kind of diaper, it may be time to look for the next option.
Also Read :
Cloth vs Disposable Diapers
Home Remedies For Diaper Rash Read more
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6 Fun Magnet Experiments and Activities for Kids
Kids may have a thrilling time exploring and playing with magnets. Magnets can be quite magical for young kids. They may also learn about magnetism and magnetic fields with enjoyable activities and experiments. For example, when introducing your child to magnets for the first time, you can ask him to gather random objects from about the house like a pencil, a spoon, clips, eraser, plastic toys. Hand over a magnet and have him find out which items get attracted or doesn’t get attracted to the magnet. You can help your kid test and sort the objects into two sections: non-magnetic and magnetic. However, ensure proper supervision of your child at all times as magnets can be hazardous if swallowed.
Magnet Experiments and Activities for Children
Integrating science in real life situations can be a good way to help kids enjoy and learn at the same time. You can make kid’s activities more productive by utilising the opportunity to educate them about basic concepts of science. Here are some stimulating activities that may assist your child to explore the amazing science of magnets:
1. Exploring Magnetism with Chalk
This easy magnet science experiment can be very entertaining and hands-on learning for pre-schoolers.
Supplies
Few pieces of chalk
A Ziploc bag
Salt
Magnetic things lying around the house
A horseshoe magnet
A glass container
A shallow bowl
Procedure
Put the pieces of chalk in a bowl.
Help your kid smash the pieces of chalk till they turn into powder.
Mix the powdered chalk with an equal measure of salt.
Transfer the mix into a bowl and fill it magnetic items like paper clips, nails, small magnets.
Have your kid collect all the magnetic things from the bowl with the horseshoe. It may be fascinating for him to see how quickly the objects travel to the magnet.
You can pour the mix into a glass container as well. Ask your kid to run the magnet on the container’s sides and let him observe how it makes the magnetic things move.
2. Magnetic Fields
This magnet science experiments for kindergarten can reveal to kids how magnetic fields can affect things even without any physical contact.
Supplies
A disk magnet (1/2-inch diameter and ½ inch thick)
3 feet long aluminium tube
3 feet PVC tube
Pencil
Procedure
Hold the aluminium tube upright and have your kid drop the disk magnet though first followed by the pencil.
The pencil is likely to fall more quickly.
Repeat the exercise with the PVC tube. The magnet and pencil will drop at an equal
You can explain to your kid that the falling magnet alters the aluminium tube’s magnetic field, prompting a kind of electric current which thrusts back against the magnet slowing its fall.
3. Magnetic Poles
You can teach your kids about magnetic poles with this simple scientific experiment.
Supplies
Iron filings
Plastic soda bottles (16 oz. in size and empty)
Plastic test tubes (they should fit inside the bottle)
Button magnets (set together)
Masking tape
Procedure
Ask your kid to fill 1/4th of the soda bottles with iron filings.
Help him wrap tape round test tube’s open end to ensure that it will fit securely in the mouth of the bottle.
Slide the test tube inside the soda bottle and put the magnets into the tube. Then cap the bottle.
Have your kid place the bottle horizontally and then roll it.
Help him see how the filings make a pattern about the magnet due to the lines of force formed by the magnetic fields.
4. Magnet Maze
This enjoyable activity is bound to keep your child entertained for hours. However, it may be best to oversee your child, particularly when handling smaller magnets as they can be a possible choking hazard.
Supplies
A white sheet
A Pen
Magnet (button)
Procedure
Draw a maze on a white sheet. You can check online to create one.
Have your kid move around the magnet to solve the maze.
You can also create roads and help your kid to make paper cars.
Your kid can race the different paper cars moving them along the road.
5. Magnet Painting
Magnet activities for pre-schoolers can include this delightful, colourful activity which may allow them to indulge in their love for colours.
Supplies
A shoe box
A piece of white paper
Painting colours
A paper clip
Magnet
Procedure
Assist your kid to stick a piece of white paper at the bottom-most part of a shoe box.
Pour some drops of different paint colours of your kid’s choice on the
Bend the paper clip slightly and place it on the paper.
Have your kid move the magnet from one place to the other beneath the box and see the colours blend beautifully together.
6. Magnetic Compass
This exciting activity is sure to be a huge hit with your kid.
Supplies
A shallow bowl
A cork
A paper clip
Magnet
Sticky notes for labelling
Water
Procedure
Fill the bowl with water and label it with the cardinal four directions namely north, south, east, west.
Stuck a paper clip at one end of the cork.
Have your kid forcefully rub a magnet against the paper clip explaining that by doing so a magnet can be created which may last for a couple of minutes.
Place the magnetised paper clip with the cork in the bowl. Help your child notice that the paper clip will be facing north and he has created a makeshift compass.
Parents can make learning fun with different interesting and thought-provoking magnetic activities and experiments. Provide your child with magnets or magnetic objects of various sizes and ask them to write their observations. Encourage them to create little experiments on their own which may facilitate their learning and further exploration of the science of magnets.
Also Read: Interesting Science Project for Children Read more
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How to Handle a Fussy Eater Toddler
Most moms of toddlers have probably been through their fussy-eater phase. It is a frustrating experience for moms of fussy-eating toddlers to get them to eat. This article explains how you can improve the food habits of a fussy-eater toddler, the reasons why toddlers may be picky and how to deal with them.
Why is your Toddler a Picky Eater?
If you have a 3-year-old fussy eater, do not worry too much. Toddlers are usually capable of regulating their food consumption. Some of the reasons why toddlers can be fussy eaters are:
Picky eating is a way for the toddler to assert her independence. She may be testing the limits of the parents’ authority by deciding what she wants to eat.
Solid food is still a new thing for toddlers. They require time to get accustomed to the different tastes, colours and textures of foods.
Toddlers can move around more and are interested in exploring their environment. They do not like to sit for too long in one place, and this includes mealtimes.
Toddlers may not require the amount of food you think they do. The rate at which they grow slows down a little after the first year. Hence, they may eat a little less than they did earlier.
It is usual for toddlers to vary their eating patterns often and also change their mind about what foods they like. They may refuse to try new foods because it looks different.
How to Introduce New Foods to a Fussy-Eater?
It can be challenging to plan meals for picky eaters. Here are a few suggestions that may help make mealtimes with fussy-eating toddlers less stressful:
Provide an assortment of healthy foods during mealtimes. The toddler will try at least a couple of the options if you place several before them. Creating a big deal about new foods makes toddlers refuse to try them.
Ensure that the child has regular mealtimes. This sees that the toddler does not snack excessively. Ideally, there should be 3 regular meals with a couple of snacks in between meals. The snacks should be healthy options.
Introduce new foods one by one, not all together. The new food should be given in small quantities. Include one standard favourite food of your toddler’s along with the new food.
If you give a toddler a new food when she is really hungry, she will be more likely to try it. For example, you could introduce a few slices of new fruit at her regular snack time.
Make mealtimes calm and free of distractions. Make sure devices like iPads, mobiles and TVs are switched off. Eat together at the table.
Do not offer food with high sugar content to make a toddler eat more. Encourage her to try different things.
If a toddler does not want to try new food, do not force it on her. The toddler may not like the colour or texture of the food. Some toddlers refuse food because they associate it with a negative experience they had, like an illness.
Serve small portions of food. The portion size of food for toddlers should be a quarter of an adult portion. Stick to 1 or 2 tablespoons of rotis, rice or vegetables.
Add nutritive ingredients to food your toddler likes. For example, add pureed carrots to dal or fruit bits to cereal.
What you can do to Get your Toddler to Eat a Wide Variety of Foods?
Below are a few tricks on how to get your toddler to try a wide variety of foods.
You can make the dish attractive and colourful. Arrange it in interesting shapes that the toddler will find appealing.
You can try and make mealtime fun by giving the child vegetables with a tasty dip or ketchup. The familiar ketchup will tempt the toddler to try the food.
Give the child healthy options too much on at snack times. For example, cucumber slices or fruit are popular with toddlers.
You can try freezing or cooling foods to make it exciting for toddlers. For example, you can freeze pulpy fruit juice, thaw it a little and turn it into an icy slush that the toddler will love.
You can try ideas like making your own breakfast. For example, you can let the toddler choose from a variety of cereals, toppings and milk or yoghurt.
Other Tips to Manage Fussy-Eating Habits in Toddlers
Dealing with fussy toddlers is a task that requires immense patience and understanding. Mothers often get stressed when their toddler is a fussy eater. Here are some tips to manage fussy eating in toddlers:
Take the toddler seriously when she shows clear signs of being full. For example, stop forcing her to eat if she pushes your hand or turns away when offered food, refuses to open her mouth or swallow, attempts to spit out or throw up the food.
Do not give the toddler anything to eat right after mealtime. For example, toddlers should not be given juice or milk for up to 2 hours after a meal.
Allow the toddler to eat slowly. If rushed, toddlers’ appetites become reduced.
Have meals together as a family.
Foods for Fussy-Eating Child
Here are some foods that you can try for fussy-eating toddlers:
Pomegranates: These nutritious little red seeds are popular with kids. Toddlers love their colour and sweetness.
Tomato Soup: Most toddlers love the tangy flavour of tomato soup, even if they do not like tomatoes. Make it interesting by adding animal or alphabet shaped crackers.
Sauteed Broccoli: Well-cooked broccoli can have a mushy texture. Try lightly sautéed broccoli. The toddler will like its crunchy texture and little tree-like appearance.
Fruit salad with whipped cream and honey: Get together some chopped fruits of various colours, add a dollop of whipped cream on it and drizzle some honey over it. Toddlers will love this healthy snack.
Hummus: Kids like the creamy texture of this chickpea dip. The hummus can be used as a spread, dip or even as a filling for sandwiches.
Peas: Lightly steamed peas sprinkled with a little salt will make an interesting dish for toddlers.
Pineapple: Toddlers love the flavour, but dislike the texture. Try giving them pureed pineapple mixed into a cup of yogurt. You can slowly move on to pineapple bits, and finally to actual fruit pieces.
Cucumbers: Toddlers love the crunchiness of cucumbers. Let them munch on cucumber slices in between meals.
How to Tell Whether your Kid is Getting Enough Food or if he isn't growing?
Each child grows at a different pace. Do not fret if you feel like your toddler is not growing quickly. Monitor the toddler’s monthly weight and height measurements. You can talk to the doctor if you are concerned that there is not enough weight gain in your toddler.
However, you should avoid hovering during mealtimes and forcing the child to eat more. This will only make a picky eater much fussier.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If a toddler’s height and weight are appropriate for her age, and she eats an adequate amount of food, there is no need for concern about fussy-eating habits. A doctor should be consulted only in case the child has a medical condition or is not maintaining the height and weight appropriate for a child her age.
Fussy-eating is a passing phase in most toddlers and will be gone before you know it. Deal with the picky-eater with patience and understanding. The eating habits of a fussy-eater will definitely improve over time.
Also Read:
Loss of Appetite in Toddlers Read more
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Toddlers
If your toddler is behaving out of control, wacky, or plain mysterious, like throwing pans from the balcony or showing sudden temper tantrums, he may be having ADHD. ADHD is diagnosed as a clinical condition by therapists, and you can get acquainted with it by reading this article and consulting a therapist. Here's everything you need to know about toddlers with ADHD.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is defined as 'Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder', and it is a mental condition when your child behaves out of the ordinary. At the heart of ADHD is a lack of focus, concentration and a short attention span. Forgetting what he has just learnt and the tendency to daydream in the middle of something important also falls under hyperactivity, which prevents your child from being calm, focused and obedient.
ADHD is not to be confused with momentary bouts of frustration, anger or inactivity. If your child stays calm when sitting for meals and going to bed, then that may rule out ADHD, but to be very sure, additional testing by a certified therapist is recommended.
Symptoms
The following are the signs of ADHD in 2-year-olds and above-
1. Inattention
Toddlers with ADHD have difficulty organizing toys, completing tasks, and paying attention or focusing in the classroom. They exhibit short attention spans and shuffle around different activities without sticking to any one activity. Inattention often translates to forgetfulness and is a tell-tale sign of ADHD in kids since they often forget details and cannot seem to remember what they were doing previously.
2. Hyperactivity
Does your child keep moving his legs, biting his fingernails, or fiddling with his arms whenever you ask him to sit quietly? Maybe your child goes from doodling on the walls to making a mess of household items in a second or two. Whatever the case, hyperactivity translates to restlessness and fidgetiness, being in a state of constant motion without pausing or taking breaks. Shifting across different corners of the room and trying to do multiple things at the same time are also obvious signs. If your child has boundless energy compared to other toddlers his/her age and can't seem to stop moving around for even a minute where every single activity is concerned - that could mean ADHD.
3. Impulsiveness
Impulsiveness in toddlers is basically showcased as a lack of self-control or discipline. Children who exhibit behaviour akin to being unable to control their own emotions, not matching what they say and do, being short-tempered, and throwing sudden temper tantrums when they don't get their way. They also go through mood swings and become extremely emotional. Older toddlers may even invade others' personal space, interfere with ongoing conversations and carry out actions without stopping to think about their consequences and also speaking without permission.
4. Positive Symptoms
Although ADHD can be troublesome, sometimes it can come with benefits. The positive symptoms of ADHD are-
High intellectual and creative abilities.
Being able to focus on play or work for long periods of time without any breaks, which is the flip side of the symptom of being distracted. Children with ADHD can exhibit hyperfocus, which means that they can concentrate on something for hours together, if it holds their interest.
Open to trying out new ideas and not sticking to recurring methods.
Extremely artistic and demonstrating creative problem-solving abilities along with a vivid imagination.
5. Other Symptoms
There are other symptoms of ADHD which are distinctive from the rest. They are the following -
Being extremely aggressive when interacting with friends during playtimes.
Being very friendly with strangers without a sign of caution.
Lack of an understanding of safety that is demonstrated by extreme fearlessness.
Unable to hop on one foot at 4 years old and above.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ADHD in toddlers is a bit different than other obvious psychological/mental disorders. Your doctor will conduct a thorough evaluation by asking for reports and findings from daycare providers, neighbours, preschool teachers, and other adults who often see your child on a day-to-day basis, coupled with his/her own observations during an evaluation. Since ADHD signs and symptoms are similar to regular behaviours exhibited by toddlers of developmental ages, an additional ADHD test for toddlers may be needed to rule out whether your child indeed has ADHD or not. The key takeaway is that ADHD is a persisting condition, and kids get tired of hyperactivity eventually, but ADHD-prone kids do not, and that's something to keep in mind.
Treatment for ADHD in Toddlers and Pre-Schoolers
There are various treatment methods for ADHD in toddlers and pre-schoolers. They are-
Behavioural Therapy - This is a common treatment method that involves praising kids for good behaviour and when they accomplish tasks. Bad behaviours and unruly instances are ignored, and therapists highlight the positive aspects of children and talk about them. Time-outs are used, and structure and routine are incorporated. Rewards are given when kids accomplish tasks or make progress in changing old behavioural patterns.
ADHD Medications - If your child is 4 years or older, then you may consider giving him/her ADHD medications like methylphenidate. Consider medications only if your child hasn't been showing changes despite attending behavioural therapy sessions. Medication is usually recommended for ages 6, and above, however, younger children are more sensitive to these, and it may help. Expected side effects include weight loss, loss of appetite, growth delays and anxiety. Once they stop taking these meds, the side effects go away, however, keep in mind that some ADHD drugs are not FDA-approved.
Parents must act like detectives if they want to spot ADHD and treat it effectively. Early treatment is recommended since ADHD in toddlers and speech delay accompanied along with it when gone unnoticed, can cause huge problems later in life which manifests in the form of poor academic performance and lack of social behaviours. Start by developing a positive relationship with your child and be gentle and kind with your little one if you suspect he has ADHD. The key point here is to encourage positive behaviour and reinforce them through rewards and encouragement while ignoring negative behaviours and allowing them to fade away with time. Make sure to consult a therapist if you suspect that your child has ADHD and always remember - your kid must be continually monitored long-term since ADHD is a little complex to spot and treat quickly.
Also Read: Child Psychology Read more
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अपने बच्चों के लिए बाल दिवस को बनाए यादगार
सर्वप्रथम इस समूह के समस्त सदस्यों एवं पाठकों को मेरा सादर प्रणाम । फिर एक बार हाजिर हूँ, एक नए लेख के माध्यम से आपके समक्ष, आशा है आप अवश्य ही पसंद करेंगे ।
सबसे पहले मैं आपको यह बताना आवश्यक समझती हूँ कि देश में बाल दिवस क्यों मनाया जाता है -
देश के इतिहास में 14 नवंबर की तारीख स्वतंत्र भारत के प्रथम प्रधानमंत्री पंडित जवाहरलाल नेहरू जी के जन्म दिवस के रूप में याद की जाती है । उनकेे निधन के बाद इस दिन को पूर्ण देश में बाल दिवस के रूप में विशेष तौर पर बच्चों के लिए मनाया जाता है । पंडित जवाहरलाल नेहरू जी को बच्चों से बहुत लगाव था और बच्चे उन्हें चाचा नेहरू कहकर पुकारते थे । नेहरू जी कहते थे कि बच्चे देश का भविष्य है, इसलिए ये जरूरी है कि उन्हें पूरा प्यार दिया जाए और उनकी देखभाल की जाए ताकि वे अपने पैरों पर खड़े हो सके।
प्रति वर्ष विद्यालयों में बाल दिवस को विशेष रूप से मनाए जाने हेतु बच्चों के लिए कार्यक्रम, खेलकूद प्रतियोगिता, उनके विभिन्न मुद्दों जैसे शिक्षा, संस्कार, सेहत, मानसिक और शारीरिक विकास हेतु जरूरी विषयों पर चर्चा, बाल मेला या उत्सव, या पिकनिक इत्यादि का आयोजन किया जाता है ताकि बच्चे विद्यालय की यादें यादगार रूप में अपने दिलों में संजोए एवं एक नए विकास की दिशा में अग्रसर हो सकें ।
वैसे तो हर दिन ही बच्चों के लिए खास है और हम भी उनका पालन पोषण अच्छे से ही करते हैं, लेकिन यह उनके अधिकारों का विशेष दिवस है। अतः सभी माता-पिता पूर्व योजना के अनुसार अपने बच्चों के साथ विशेष रूप से मना सकते हैं ताकि यह बाल दिवस 14 नवंबर को प्रति वर्ष उनके लिए यादगार रूप में सफल हो सके ।
बच्चे किसी के भी हो बचपन में सभी कोमल मन के होते हैं, उन्हें माता-पिता द्वारा जैसी शिक्षा एवं संस्कार दिए जाते हैं, वे वैसे ही रूप में ढल जाते हैं । जैसे आप एक छोटे-से पौधे को जैसा सींचोगे, वह वैसे ही पेड़ के रूप में विकसित होगा । ठीक वैसा ही हाल बच्चों का है । मेरा यह मानना है कि हर घर में प्रत्येक माता-पिता को बच्चों को बचपन से ही सही ग़लत का ज्ञान कराया जाना चाहिए, फिर वे आजकल की तकनीकी वस्तु ही क्यों न हो, यदि सही ज्ञान विज्ञान उपयोग की जानकारी पूर्व से ही होगी, तो किसी भी वस्तु का दुरूपयोग होगा ही नहीं ।
बाल दिवस को बच्चों के लिए यादगार बनाने के लिए निम्नलिखित बिन्दुओं के माध्यम से अपने विचार व्यक्त कर रही हूँ आशा है आप अवश्य ही अपने जीवन में भी अपनाने की कोशिश करेंगे, धन्यवाद ।
आजकल अधिकांश रूप से माता-पिता कामकाजी होने के कारण अपने बच्चों को अपना बहुमूल्य समय एवं योगदान देने में असमर्थ हैं तथा साथ ही बच्चे भी अपने अध्ययन में व्यस्त रहते हैं, या कुछ बच्चे घर से बाहर रहकर भी अध्ययन कर रहे हैं, तो फिर ऐसे में माता-पिता द्वारा बच्चों के मनपसंद स्थान पर घूमने जाने की योजना बनाई जा सकती है ।
वैसे तो हम बच्चों के जन्म दिवस पर उनकेे लिए नए कपड़े लेते हैं, पर इस विशेष दिवस भी उनको उपहार के रूप में नवीनतम ड्रेस दिलाकर खुश कर सकते हैं ।
आज के इस तकनीकी युग में बच्चों को अधिकतम अध्ययन कम्प्यूटर या मोबाइल के जरिए ही पूर्ण करना पड़ता है, तो इस विशेष दिवस पर उनको पहले से योजना बनाकर सैर कराने या पिकनिक मनाने ले जाया जा सकता है ताकि वे खुली हवा में बिना किसी हिचक या तनाव के खुले आसमान में घूम सके और अपने मनपसंद खेलों का आनंद ले सकें ।
आपकी कॉलोनी में आपके पहचान की महिलाओं का समूह बनाकर सभी बच्चों को शामिल करते हुए एक निश्चित अवधि एवं योजना बनाते हुए एक साथ कहीं एतिहासिक स्थलों पर घूमने जाने के संबंध में विचार किया जा सकता है ताकि इसी बहाने बच्चों को भारत के प्रसिद्ध ऐतिहासिक स्थलों के संबंध में जानकारी प्राप्त हो सके साथ ही साथ आपस में खुशी मना सकें एवं मस्ती व पूर्ण रूप से मनोरंजन भी कर सकें क्योंकि असली मजा जो सबके साथ है वह अकेले में नहीं ।
बाल दिवस के अवसर पर अपने बच्चों की मनपसंद डिश बनाकर भी उनको सरप्राइज गिफ्ट के तौर पर दे सकते हैं ताकि वह इस विशेष दिवस को याद रखें ।
इस विशेष दिवस पर अपने बच्चों को जहाँ घूमने ले जाएं वहाँ कुछ प्रेरणादायक या ज्ञानवर्धक कहानियाँ भी सुनाकर एवं बाल दिवस के संबंध में जानकारी देते हुए भी उनका दिवस विशेष बनाया जा सकता है ।
सबसे महत्वपूर्ण भूमिका माता-पिता की यह भी होनी चाहिए कि बच्चों को समझाएं कि जो जीवन में उनको प्राप्त हो रहा है, वे उसमें ही खुश रहें, दूसरे बच्चों से तुलना ना करें । उनको आज विशेष दिवस के मौके पर यह एहसास दिलाएं कि उनको जो मिला है, वह दूसरे बच्चे जो गरीब या अनाथ है उनको परिस्थिति के अनुरूप तो हासिल भी नहीं होता ।
सभी बच्चों में अलग-अलग प्रकार की गुणवत्ता होती है, तो उनको आज विशेष दिवस के अवसर पर उनके शौक़ भी पूर्ण करने दिजीएगा ।
आज के विशेष दिवस पर माता-पिता बच्चों के साथ जब घूमने जाने की योजना बनाएं, तब उनको अच्छी सीख देते हुए बता सकते हैं कि वे अपने पुराने कपड़े, किताबें एवं स्टेश्नरी साथ में रख लें । घूमने जाने के साथ ही साथ अनाथ आश्रम में बच्चों की ये वस्तुएं उपहार के रूप में प्रदान कर सकते हैं ताकि किसी जरूरतमंद को सहायता प्राप्त हो सके । ऐसा करके सही रूप में बाल दिवस को खास बनाया जा सकता है।
आजकल इस व्यस्ततम जीवन में जहाँ संयुक्त परिवार समाप्त ही हो रहे हैं, तो बच्चों को अकेले ही रहने की आदत हो जाती है, फिर इस विशेष दिवस पर बच्चों के मनोरंजन हेतु पूर्व निर्धारित योजना के अनुसार इस दिन को विशेष बनाकर यादगार पल बनाया जा सकता है ।
अंत में अपने अनुभव से यही कहना चाहूंगी कि बाल दिवस पर भारत सरकार द्वारा कुछ उपयोगी नियम भी बनाए गए हैं, जैसे बाल मजदूरी नहीं कराया जाना, किसी भी बच्चे को पढ़ने से वंचित नहीं रखना या छोटे बच्चों से कोई भी कार्य जबरदस्ती नहीं कराया जाना इत्यादि । यदि आप सभी इस तरह की गतिविधियों को रोकने में मददगार साबित हो सकें और अपने बच्चों को भी सीखाएंगे तो इससे अच्छी कोशिश और कोई हो ही नहीं सकती, इससे अपने देश को भी बेहतर बनाने हेतु सहायता मिलेगी ।
कोई आपके परिचित या अपरिचित रूप से कोई अनाथ बच्चा पढ़ना चाहता हो तो उसकी सहायता करें और अपने बच्चों को भी बताएं । जैसे बागवान चलचित्र में महानायक श्री अमिताभ बच्चन जी द्वारा सलमान खान को पढ़ाने में मदद की जाती है और वह काबिल इंसान बनते हैं ।
मेरे संज्ञान में एक और चलचित्र आ रहा है, परिचय जिसमें प्राण साहब अपने पोते पोती को डांट डपट कर अध्ययन करने हेतु मजबूर करतें हैं एवं जितेंद्र शिक्षक के रूप में आते हैं, फिर वे कहानी सुनाकर, बच्चों को बाहर घूमने ले जाकर एवं बच्चों के मनपसंद खेल खिलाकर उन्हें बहुत ही प्यार से समझाते हैं ।
इसी से मेल खाती हुई एक और फिल्म देखने को मिली थी, तारे जमीं पर जो आमीर ख़ान जी ने कुछ विशेष रूप से बनाई थी, विशेष बच्चों के लिए । फिर ऐसे बच्चों की पहचान करते हुए माता-पिता को बिना जोर जबरदस्ती के उनके हिसाब से उन्हें शिक्षा प्रदान करना चाहिए । ये बच्चे ही हमारे भारत देश की धरोहर है, इन्हें संभाल कर रखिएगा, ये ही आने वाले कल के राष्ट्र निर्माता बनेंगे ।
समूह के समस्त सम्माननीय सदस्यों, पाठकों एवं आपके सभी बच्चों को बाल दिवस की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं देती हूँ । आपको मेरे विचार कैसे लगे, अपनी आख्या के माध्यम से अवश्य ही बताइएगा ।
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
13 mins ago
Q. my baby is in lower placenta, can I travel in 7th or 8th month? and what should i do to avoid my mood swings
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 mins ago
A. no not advisable. 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
10 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert बच्चे को 3 दिन से ग्रीन पॉटी हो रही , वो भी कई बार , पहले 5 दिन में एक बार करता , अब दिन में कई बार , 7 मंथ ओल्ड बेबी बॉय
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 min ago
A. green 💚 no problem ft. 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
Guardian of 0 children
9 mins ago
Q. my baby is 4th months old and he drools so much. I am concerned about this, please let me know
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 mins ago
A. no problem gtb. 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
Guardian of 0 children
7 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert My daughter is 5 Months old what I can feed her additionally to milk
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 mins ago
A. not yet. 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 Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert I m at 8 months of pregnancy but baby bump is very small n amniotic fluid is 8.. is it cause of concern
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
5 mins ago
A. can neeed csection. do 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.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert hlo mam i m 4th month pregnant and i feel aa lumps in my armpit both sides but they r very small with little bit pain i consult my doctor and she said its normal during pregnancy but after massage i realise the size of lump has reduced i just wanna ask it can go away after delivery?
Read morePOOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
2 mins ago
A. Antibiotics may be necessary if you have an infection. Over-the-counter pain medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines relieve discomfort if the lump is painful or the area around it is swollen. Removing the lump may be necessary if it's due to lipomas, cysts or other skin issues.
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