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Lazy Eye - Does Your Child Have It?
Many of us must have heard about the problem called lazy eye in children, but we may not be aware of what exactly the condition is, what to do about it and what is the treatment. I regularly see many patients in my practice suffering from the problem of lazy eye and who have not been treated properly probably because the condition was not diagnosed or there was a lack of understanding as to what the condition is and how to go about treating it. It is our duty as parents to be aware of the condition and take the necessary steps as advised by the ophthalmologist and under their guidance.
What the term lazy eye actually means is that the child's eye for some reason is not developing in function as it should, the reason being lack of stimulation of the retina that is the part responsible for the vision of the eye due to certain medical conditions.
There are many reasons why lazy eye may occur in a child, few of them are the presence of an undiagnosed refractive error in the eye, squint, or congenital cataract. Treatment of all of the above-mentioned conditions is possible and hence treating lazy eye is quite possible.
Few steps that we need to take for children to be sure that they do not have any problems with the eyes are:
Check vision in both eyes of your children by closing one eye alternately, and asking them to read numbers on a calendar at a distance of 5 to 6 metres.
Make sure that the vision is equal in both eyes and that the child is not saying numbers from memory.
If the child is unable to read or you find a discrepancy between the two eyes then take the child to an eye specialist.
Try to see if there is a squint or a deviation of any of the eyes as the child looks straight at you. Another way to do this would be to take a picture of your child's face by keeping the flashlight on in your mobile camera, the red reflex observed in both the eyes should be equal in intensity and shape. If any discrepancy is noted, then the child requires immediate ophthalmological examination by a specialist.
See if there is any white spot in any eye of your child. If so visit to the doctor is recommended.
Also, any complaints of inability to open the eyes in bright sunlight or complaints of inability to see what is written on the blackboard should not be ignored by parents, it requires immediate eye checkup.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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If Your Baby Craves Non-Food Items Like Chalk, Here's What You Should Do!
As your little one grows older and starts teething, you’ll find him exploring the world in a variety of ways - including putting different things in his mouth. Babies will often try to chew on new things during the teething process. This will include non-food items too; nothing is too ‘dirty’ or ‘yucky’ for the baby, including fallen toys, leftovers, and messy laundry! However, if your baby’s cravings for these non-food, non-nutritive substances seem unnatural or too strong, it is a cause for alarm. Your baby could have an alarming condition called PICA!
When your baby becomes mobile and starts crawling around the house, your chores become even more intensive! You now have to maintain hygiene in your house with greater rigour, especially the baby’s room. This is to make sure that your little one doesn’t put something unsanitary in his mouth. Yes, it is natural and even expected of your baby to put things in his mouth in this passing phase.
However, if your baby continues to mouth or swallow non-food things after he has turned 18 months old, there might be something wrong. As per paediatricians, if your kid craves and repeatedly tries to eat non-food things for more than a month, then he might have an alarming condition called PICA. This needs immediate medical attention.
What is PICA & What Causes it?
Pica is a nutritional disorder where the child has cravings for certain specific types of non-nutritive and non-food items. These include things like dirt, chalk, paper, hair and other items. There are a number of reasons why your little one could have Pica. These include:
Hunger
Nutrient deficiency
Coping mechanism to deal with stress
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Autism, schizophrenia and some developmental disorders
Why is PICA Dangerous?
Well, the reasons behind the disorder itself are cause for concern. But the fact that children could be consuming these non-food items that can contain toxins is very alarming. The ingestion of such toxins can result in:
Serious infections or blockages in the stomach and digestive tract
Lead poisoning
Damage to the kidneys or the liver
Interference with a healthy diet as non-food objects can reduce appetite
In extreme cases, it can even affect the physical and mental development of the child
How To Deal With PICA
One of the most common reasons for Pica is nutrient deficiencies for nutrients like Iron and Zinc. The treatment of this deficiency requires further testing by doctors. The good news is that Pica generally lasts for just a few months with timely intervention. If your child has Pica but has tested negative for nutrient deficiencies, proactivity on your end is necessary. Here are some more ways to deal with Pica in children:
1. Identify the Cause of the Cravings
Whenever your child indulges in behaviour typical to Pica, i.e. he tries to eat non-food items, try to ascertain his feelings and identify the cause for his cravings. If you can identify the cause, you can take steps towards dealing with this disorder. If your child is hungry, make him a healthy snack. Talk to him about how he can indicate his need for food and ask you for some instead of resorting to non-food items.
If stress or hunger aren’t the reasons behind Pica, try and ascertain his need/craving for these items by keeping track of his emotions and surroundings every time he tries to eat these toxic items.
2. Help Dissipate Pent-Up Energy
If your child is showing signs of stress and pent-up negative energy, help him expel this energy by doing some physical activity, i.e. running races, jumping, etc.
3. Use Positive Reinforcement
Simply trying to encourage your child to not consume non-food items can be more useful than we think. Gentle, firm words and a supportive approach can help kids learn to tackle such cravings. Punishment or scolding may only affect the child’s mental setup further.
PICA and Developmental Disorders
At times, Pica maybe a symptom of a yet undiagnosed disorder like Autism or OCD, as this behaviour is often seen in people with these disorders. As per experts, children with autism tend to eat non-food items due to the following reasons:
Lack of ability to differentiate: The child might not be able to tell that what they are eating is not for consumption and is actually harming them. In such cases, try to teach your child to understand the difference between food and non-food items.
Comfort and joy in the sensation of certain items: The sensation of certain items feels familiar and comforting to them and thus they resort to eating these ‘comfort foods’. You can use positive and negative reinforcement in such cases and additionally encourage your child to find comfort and familiarity in other ways (like a toy or a certain type of food).
Pica has also been classified as an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder under which a person, despite knowing that a certain type of behaviour may be risky or harmful, will still indulge in the same. In such cases, it's best to consult child psychologists/paediatricians for further examination, understanding and treatment. Additionally, make sure that your doctor checks for any infections or side effects in your child as a result of consuming these toxins. This will ensure your little one doesn’t face any harmful consequences.
Pica can be very worrisome and is also difficult to deal with. But it is certainly treatable, and with early intervention, your child can get cured quickly. Take care. Read more
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Here is My Take on Screen Time For Kids and 7 Rules I Follow
Screens are such an important part of our lives, aren’t they? I know my kids are happiest tucked in bed, gorging on a bowl of cheese popcorn, watching a Disney movie on a Saturday night. It’s the one major indulgence that they look forward to all week long! It’s also the two hours I have for some ‘gossip-with-the-girlfriend’ or ‘want-to-cuddle-with-the-husband’ time! That said, I can’t have them like sitting ducks watching the screen endlessly! The key is therefore - limitations! I’m not saying that I am an expert, but there are a few plans that my family, including my kids, have come up with to stay in sync with the times today without losing out on our sanity.
7 Rules to Limiting Screen Time
You can always come up with your own rules to limiting your kids' screen time and be as creative as possible. Here are 7 rules that work best in our family and have helped us limit screen time considerably.
1. Never Rely on a Screen to Be a ‘Soothing Device’
Big mistake! Don’t make it. While it’s very easy to fall prey to this, it’s like gratifying a child for a tantrum. Once the child knows that the iPad is tucked away snugly in your purse, be assured, your child will ask for it. What follows will probably be relentless badgering, which you will find yourself giving into because of the inconvenience of timing, the need to get on with your work or simply because you can’t handle the tantrum. Then, there will be seconds and thirds and just like quick sand, you’ll get sucked in, battling for life! In my experience with my two kids, I’ve always won them with distraction or plain, ignoring!
2. Allow Kids to Watch Age-Appropriate Shows
This is something we lay emphasis on! More than the time they spend watching shows, I’m particular about what my kids watch. As a family, we like to choose something that is educational, entertaining and most significantly, developmentally appropriate.
3. Actively Watch Alongside Kids.
We’ve turned it into a huge family experience, bringing in daddy, the cousins, the friends or whomsoever wishes to join in!! Being able to discuss the movie, critically analyse the events as they unfold, and discussing the protagonist and antagonist, there is great opportunity for post-viewing interactions. This makes it positive and fun, while also developing some great thinking skills in kids.
4. Have a ‘No Screen Day’
A day set aside for zero screen time is a wonderful opportunity to consciously bond. As FirstCry extends this phenomenal idea to many parents across the country, I cannot endorse enough how it works beautifully within the framework of discipline for my family. While the entire agenda as visualised by FirstCry is to spend a ‘No Screen Day,’ I love how it offers my family ample time to do nothing, yet everything! Together, we bake, create art pieces, experiment with bubbling volcanoes in the kitchen or just sit and play a game of Battle Ship. As it’s a rule that’s been in place since the kids are going to school, it’s been accepted without any resistance by the kids.
5. Warn Kids About the Consequences of a ‘Meltdown’ When the Time is Up
This for me is extremely significant! While I allow them TV time in moderation, I’ve had occasions when a tantrum ensues as soon as the designated time is up. On one such occasion, my husband and I disconnected the TV connection for an entire month! It was, surprisingly, not so tough on the kids. The boredom taught them to enjoy their time together as siblings. Also, the kids have learned to switch off the TV when asked to do so.
6. Do as You Want Kids to Do
This probably is the most difficult thing that my husband and I have had to do: PUT DOWN OUR OWN SCREENS! Honestly, like all other things that we hope our kids will learn from us, this one also has to be practised. While I confess that it’s most difficult for me to do, I am becoming better at not succumbing to look at my phone to fulfill every second of my boredom. If my kids find me looking down at a screen constantly, how can I expect them to stay away from it?
7. Stay Active
This is the most significant aspect for us in keeping the kids away from screens. Sure, it takes a lot from us, but as a family, we believe it’s worth it! Filling the day with meaningful activities, a trip to the playground, a visit to the pool, a little reading, mindless dancing; all of these leave them no time to lean towards screens. I’ve also invested in some worthy DIY and learning kits. One we particularly enjoy is the Intellikit from FirstCry. Panning various age groups and themes, I find these to be a goldmine for kids and a great means for my kids to stay occupied.
With these rules in our lives, we have learned to embrace technology sensibly. I appreciate the value that electronics provide our children with and how they help our kids advance with minimal involvement. However, the benefits of ‘no-screen time’ are unparalleled. As a family we have embraced the time we have now pursue and explore our interests, the opportunities for kids brains to develop and most of all, allows us to reconnect. I’ve also witnessed increased social interactions by the kids and overall, a more calm demeanor. Take the No-Screen Day pledge here, and see a difference.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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5 Reasons Not to Delay Your Child's Enrollment in School
Pandemic 2020, so far has had tremendous impact on the way of our lives. Needless saying that education and the way of teaching - learning does top the list. Amidst these tough times, a perplexing question of a parent to a 2.5 to 4 year kids is whether to get them admitted in a school or is it a squander. Well, this article covers my views on the admissions and five reasons why you should commence formal education for your kids, without any delay.
We are parents to a 3 year old boy (3 and a quarter precisely now) and till February 2021, we too, were not sure to get our son enrolled. We had been thinking we are already teaching him the basics or may be a little beyond. However, it is after being with him throughout his nursery classes, regardless being online, I am putting my thoughts down here as to why commencement of studies is extensive for your kid.
Developmental Milestones - Kids aged 2.5 onwards have a very quick grasping skills, something that we all know. Hence it is crucial to note what we teach, preach or present to them. Schools have the formal curriculum that is more effective yet fun for your kids.
Discipline - Yet again this is the best time to get your kids get accustomed to a schedule that is not only beneficial for setting up their daily habits but this is what is adding to their lifestyles. Remember, habits are built at a very early stage is not an overstatement.
Excitement and Eagerness- Kids who are supposed to be out playing and making friends and exploring world at this age are locked in their homes at this time of crisis. Most of us live in a nuclear family these days and that adds to the mundane routine, no matter how hard you try. Classes do bring in new activities and learnings, that your kids will love, and you would (more, trust me).
Exposure - Given these times, it is ok to make friends online. Been four months and my son knows many of his classmates by their names and faces. This manifestly gives righteous feeling of studying in groups, with classmates, is much better than studying alone.
Communication - It is an inborn human nature to love appreciation, especially with kids. An appreciation or an encouragement from teachers or an applause from your classmates is what gives an immense boost to the confidence in your kid. Been broadcasted with a picture or video with your kid reciting is the highest level of achievement for them and they deserve every bit of it.
No matter which school or which class (pre school or nursery) you prefer, it is crucial to get yourself and your little one geared up for classes. No second thoughts to it.
Hope this article helps you with your decision with respect to education for your little one. Happy learning!!!
- Monica Sharma Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. hello everyone, please suggest me, am getting pain in lower abdomen right side, anybody plz tell me why am getting pain pls
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. this needs proper examination to find out problems like appendicitis. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
3 hours ago
Q. hi mam for 2days I am seeing my baby bumb decreasing is it cause of worry?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. I don’t know how the bumps of your child decreasing that’s not fair to me second you have not mentioned the current age of your child to do it and there is no clarity in the query it would be difficult for me to help us so if you don’t mind can you please repost with all the necessary details associated with your question
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. Hello I had my period missed for April month and today I got my period. Is it normal to have period after 1 month or is there anything I should be worried about? Iam worried please let me know if that's ok or should I consult my doctor
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. consult your doctor for any evaluation required. 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
1 hour ago
Q. hllo am in 34 week of pregnancy,cramps in my hand and foots,my pulses is very fast,i feel tiredness internally,are these symptoms are normal
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. get investigations particularly hemoglobin level. 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
1 hour ago
Q. i feel some fever internally also
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. please check the temperature and get the investigations. fever can be because of different reasons most of the times viral bacterial sometimes due to less immunity there can be recurrence better to treat only with paracetamol if the fever more than 100degr
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
54 mins ago
Q. Now I am having pain till then my miscarriage has been done at home
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
50 mins ago
A. I’m sorry I’m unable to understand your query as you haven’t given any detail about it so whatever the situation is you should get a check with your gynaecologist the doctor would be able to give you better help in whatever treatment of precaution you need to require further
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