Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
17 Best Activities for 5-Month-Old Baby
At five months of age, your baby is developing his key senses rapidly. His energy levels will be higher, his muscle movements and dexterity will be better, and his visual perception and hand-eye coordination will improve. Additionally, he will also be able to express his emotions with the help of facial expressions when speaking.
At this stage of development, your baby will demand attention and would want to play more often. Besides preventing boredom, playing is very important to develop his motor skills. In this article, we will discuss the various 5-month-old baby development activities that can be initiated to ensure that your baby’s full potential is realised.
Major Developmental Milestones for a 5-month-old Baby
There are various milestones of development that a baby has accomplished by the time he is five-months-old. Some key developments in a five-month-old baby include:
1. Visual Perception
Your baby now has improved visual perception. He can observe and track movements, respond to familiar faces, make eye contact, and recognize objects such as his favourite toy. He also has improved control over his eyes which is known as visual tracking. This skill is necessary later in life as it helps in developing reading and writing skills.
2. Sound Perception
Sound perception improves considerably at five months of age. By this age, a baby can now pinpoint the source of a sound as well as recognize familiar voices. Don’t be surprised if you find him darting his eyes across the room when he hears you sing your favourite song!
3. Muscle Movement and Flexibility
Your baby will now be able to roll on his own and make attempts at crawling. He will also be able to hold, lift, and move objects (light ones of course)! One of his greatest achievements during this time will be his ability to sit up momentarily without any help.
4. Cognitive Skills
Your little one will now also be able to identify familiar objects such as a toy. He will even be able to comprehend the purpose of building blocks and play with them like an expert!
5. Facial Expressions
Your baby will now display facial expressions and make attempts to speak even though he is only learning to make sounds. Don’t be surprised if you hear some incoherent babbling during this time.
15 Activities for Five-Month-Old Babies
Given below is a compilation of activities that will keep a 5-month-old baby engaged for long:
1. Floor Play
It is important for a baby to try and move around on his own. This moving around will help in building his muscle strength in the arms, neck, back, and shoulders. These very muscles will enhance his ability required to roll, crawl, sit upright, and walk in the coming months. This is one of the important 5-month-old baby play activities.
What is Required – A blanket or carpet and toys.
How to Do it - Lay a soft blanket or carpet on the floor and place your baby on it. He can be placed either on his back or his tummy. Now spread an assortment of toys around the baby and encourage him to reach out and play with those toys.
Which Skills are Developed – Muscle strength and flexibility.
2. Follow the Object
This is one of the most important 5-month-old baby play activities, as it helps improve eye movement. This simple activity which encourages a child to focus on an object and track its motion will enhance his visual tracking skills.
What is Required - Objects and toys that make a sound or have lights such as rattles, bells, etc.
How to Do it – Lay your baby on his back. Hold a toy or an object that makes sound and can hold your baby’s attention. Now move the object from side to side ensuring that the movement is slow enough for your baby eyes to follow. You could move the object up and down to get the full spectrum of visual tracking. Ensure that the object is at an approximate distance of one foot. If your baby is distracted, bring the object back to the centre to grab his attention again.
Which Skills are Developed - Visual perception, sound perception, and visual tracking.
3. Baby’s Day Out
It may seem of no importance, but just carrying your baby and going out for a stroll is in itself an activity that is good for a baby’s sensory development.
What is Required – A baby sling, pram, or similar equipment to carry a baby.
How to Do it – Place the baby in a baby sling or pram; you could even simply carry your baby in arms and head out for a stroll. Choose places to walk that are not noisy and crowded. A park or a garden are some good places where you can try this. Allow your baby to explore…let him touch the plants, flowers, and feel the grass or soil. However, keep a watch as he still does not have much control and could hurt himself.
Which Skills are Developed – Overall sensory perception.
4. The Sound of Music
Music can be very soothing for babies; they enjoy soft and melodious music, so play some music and have fun.
What is Required – Calm atmosphere, a music system.
How to Do it – Hold your baby by putting your hands under his arms, switch on the music and observe if he reacts. If your baby tries to move, help him to do so in rhythm with the music. Do note to avoid playing loud music and stick to playing only soft melodious music. Note that music should be played at intervals; if the music is played all day long, he will soon start ignoring it.
Which Skills are Developed - Sound perception, social play, and motor skills.
5. Up and Above
Up and above in the air can be a really fun activity for kids as they feel a sense of freedom when they are in the air.
What is Required – Some free playtime and attention.
How to Do it – Hold the baby from under his arms and lift him up in the air. Now gently move him up and down, side to side and go around while holding him in the air. Take a break every 5 minutes. These movements help develop the vestibular system which helps a baby understand his body in relation to the things around him.
Which Skills are Developed – Social play and vestibular system.
6. Treasure Chest
Babies need to interact with toys and objects. The basic skills such as holding, pulling, pushing, releasing, moving from one hand to the other and throwing have to be learned. This activity will strengthen his muscles.
What is Required – A cardboard box or carton, toys, and a few random objects.
How to Do it – Fill the cardboard box with toys and random objects. Now, bring the baby close to the box and encourage him to explore the contents of the box. Let the baby’s curiosity get the better of him, encourage him to pick, hold and play with various objects. You can even name the objects and tell him what they are when he picks them out of the box. However, be cautious and do not place sharp pointy objects near him. Avoid using small objects as your baby can swallow them.
Which Skills are Developed – Motor skills and reasoning skills.
7. Now You See Me, Now You Don’t
Curiosity may have killed the cat, but it is a basic human trait. Our ability to reason and ask questions is what sets us apart from other mammals. This inquisitive nature of ours is a necessary trait that should be encouraged; this activity will do just that.
What is Required – A bed sheet and the baby’s favourite toy.
How to Do it – Place the baby on the bed, now get his favourite toy, and place it partially hidden under a blanket. Draw your baby’s attention to the toy and encourage him to reach for it. When he does, pull the toy completely below the blanket. Your baby will be surprised and wonder where it went. Bring it out of the blanket in another place and pull it inside when the baby reaches for it.
What Skills Developed – Curiosity and motor skills.
8. Story Fun
Storytelling would be a frequent activity in the months to come. But at five months this activity can and should be initiated particularly as a bedtime activity.
What is Required - An illustrated storybook with bright and lively images.
How to Do it – Make your baby sit on your lap, open a children’s book and start reading from it. Point at the illustrations and teach the baby to focus on the book. If he wants to touch the book or flip a page, let him do it. This activity will in time get him familiar with some basic words, and he will develop the ability to listen.
Which Skills are Developed – Language skills, visual skills, and cognitive skills.
9. Puppeteer
A baby needs to learn interaction. This will help him to communicate freely with people around him in his later years. This next activity, being interactive in nature will achieve just that.
What is Required – A hand puppet.
How to Do it – Place a puppet on your hand and bring it close to the baby while speaking in the voice of a cartoon. Allow the baby to reach out to touch the puppet and respond accordingly.
Which Skills are Developed – Imagination, creativity, humour and motor skills.
10. Bubbles
A quick and easy way to grab your baby’s attention and stimulate his curiosity.
What is Required – Something to blow soap bubbles.
How to Do it – Start blowing bubbles in your baby’s direction and let him observe. If he feels excited, feel free to increase the rate of blowing bubbles.
Which Skills are Developed – Visual perception and curiosity.
11. Fruits and Vegetable Intro
The sense of smell is very important for us. This wonderful little activity can help your little one appreciate some healthy food options.
What is Required – A variety of fruits and vegetables.
How to Do it – Cut different fruits and vegetables and bring them about 4 inches near your baby’s nose. Encourage him to smell the food and mention the name of the fruit or vegetable the moment you notice him responding to its smell. Ideally, use the fruits and vegetables with pleasant fragrances like cucumber, banana, pumpkin, and mango.
Which Skills are Developed - Olfactory and recognition of food by scent.
12. Bounce
A bouncy ball is a great way to stimulate a baby’s natural curiosity.
What is Required – A soft, bouncy ball.
How to Do it – Sit your baby upright with his back against the wall. Now, start bouncing the ball to catch the baby’s attention and when he is looking, gently roll the ball towards him. Let him reach for the ball and move it around.
Which Skills are Developed – Motor skills and curiosity.
13. Cradle Soccer
It is important for a baby to learn to focus on an object as it can help in concentration in his later years. Most playing and even learning activities in the coming years will require his undivided attention and this game can help him do just that.
What is Required – A soft toy and string.
How to Do it – Place your baby on the floor, close to a chair or stool and hang a soft toy from the chair. Do it in such a way that the baby can reach it with his feet. Now prompt him to kick and make a happy sound every time he kicks it.
Which Skills are Developed – Motor skills and play skills.
14. Follow the Toy
This activity will improve his visual tracking skills and muscle coordination.
What is Required – A soft toy and string.
How to Do it – Sit on the floor with your baby upright on your lap. Now, tie a soft toy to a string and drag it on the floor in front of him from side to side. Let him track the toy with his eyes and head. Feel free to increase the speed if required. If he reaches out to grab it, let him and then repeat.
Which Skills are Developed – Visual tracking.
15. Sound Source
It is not only important for the baby to learn how to track an object by sight but also by sound. This exercise will improve both the audio and visual perception of a baby.
What is Required – A rattle and hand towel.
How to Do it – Place the baby on the bed and bring a rattle close to him. Make it rattle and once your baby is looking at it, hide the same behind the hand towel. Continue to make the sound keeping it behind the hand towel while moving both of them around. This will help your baby increase his sense of hearing as well as track the source of the sound.
Which Skills are Developed – Audio-visual perception and cognitive ability.
16. Baby Sit-Ups
Any activity that involves movement for babies exercises their muscles. This one is not just an exercise but also a way to bond with them.
What is Required - A comfortable place for you to stretch your legs and lie down.
How to Do it - Sit with your legs stretched on a floor or a bed and make your baby sit on your lap. Bend your knees to create back support for the baby. Hold him under his arms and slowly stretch your legs as you lay the baby on the lap. Keep talking to him all the while or sing the nursery rhyme “Jack and Jill” as you bring the baby up or gently take him down.
Which Skills are Developed - Neck and head muscles, and bonding skills.
17. Bathing Time
Bathing time is not just required to maintain cleanliness. It can also be used to bond with babies and develop certain skills.
What is Required - A baby bathtub, bath toys that make squeaky noises.
How to Do it - When you put the baby in the bathtub, introduce toys like a rubber duck, his rattler, etc. Then, as you bath him, make soft noises to can grab his attention, let him hold the toys and play with them also. At times, gently sprinkle some water on his face to continue playing with him and then move back to the toys. You may also tell him cute little stories as you bathe him.
Which Skills are Developed - Association between object and sound, sense of touch, visual perception, improves his grip.
Tips for Parents of a 5-month-old Infant
At five months of age, a baby enters the phase where his learning curve is speeding up. From this point on, your baby will be learning fast and his skills will be developing at a rapid pace. Here are some tips to keep pace with your baby’s growth.
At five months of age, your baby will have become very energetic. He will be moving faster and with increased frequency. It is advisable to remove all toys hanging over his crib or elsewhere within his reach as they are now hazardous.
The time has come for your baby to crawl around the house and explore things for himself. Lock all cupboards and cabinets that are within his reach. All sharp corners of the house should be cushioned and taped.
At this stage, babies are particularly prone to choking hazards as they try to examine and understand things with their mouth. Keep all small objects that can be swallowed by them out of their reach.
Never force your baby to do things he does not wish to do.
Babies differ from one another and can also display a unique personality. If your baby is slow in learning a form of play or other activity, it is not a cause of concern.
Learning to speak is an important milestone. Babies learn by imitation, so talk to your baby as frequently as you can even if he does not understand what you say.
Babies love to be touched, kissed, and caressed particularly by the mother. This display of affection is important for them to be calm and composed.
The joy of spending time and playing with a baby cannot be expressed in words. It is, however, prudent to understand that play is not only about having fun and passing the time, it is also an important component of a baby’s growth and development. Activities that improve a baby’s essential skills should be pursued.
Also Read: How To Make Baby Walk – Milestones, Tips and Activities Read more
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
How to Clean a Washing Machine Inside and Out at Home
Most of us don't remember to clean our washing machines, do you? You might think how can a machine that cleans something get dirty? However, soap scum, bacteria, and other germs grow over time inside the machine if it is not washed properly. These could damage the machine and also cut down the life span of your machine. Moreover, it could also pose a safety hazard as the machine is used to clean our daily use items like clothing, bags, and even shoes.
Cleaning your washing machine may seem like a tiresome, but it should not be ignored. While some tips could be used from time to time to clean the washing machine, there are elaborate processes that should be used at regular intervals to clean every part of your washing machine thoroughly. This article gives you an understanding of the importance of cleaning the washing machine and the tips to carry out the process.
Why Is It Important to Clean a Washing Machine?
This would be the first question that would come to your mind if someone told you to clean your washing machine. The answer is simple. Many undesirable things like moss, lime scale, and germs can build up inside your machine with regular use. Front loading machines and High Efficiency (HE) washers are most prone to mould and mildew growth around the door seal due to moisture. Not only does it create an unpleasant odour, but it also proves to be a health hazard.
Many parents use cloth diapers for their babies. While most of the icky stuff on cloth diapers can be washed off, the residue finds its way into the machine. In addition to this, the accumulation of dirt particles from other clothing, like dusting cloths and wipes also cause the inside of the washing machine to become filthy. This is the reason why your washing machine needs care, too.
Even if you do not wash cloth diapers or dusting cloths in your machine, it still stands the risk of mould and bacterial growth because its interior is dark, moist, and closed.
How to Clean a Washing Machine Naturally at Home
When was the last time you cleaned your washing machine? Ideally, if the machine is being used on a regular basis, it needs to be cleaned once in a week or bi-weekly. Cleaning your washing machine might sound like a tedious task, but fret not. Here are a few useful tips to show that extra care your machine needs:
1. A Top Loading Washing Machine
Follow these simple directions to clean the top load of your washing machine.
What You Require
White Vinegar or bleach
Baking soda
Toothbrush
Microfibre cloth
Directions
Set the washer on the hottest water setting and the longest wash setting, and fill the water to the highest level the machine allows.
As the washer tub fills, pour a quart of vinegar or bleach into it as these act as disinfectants.
Now, close the lid of the machine and allow it to process it for a minute. After a minute, open the lid and let it stay for an hour.
While the water and vinegar are set to soak in the washer tub, remove any parts that you can and rinse them and clean the nook and corners under the lid. Use a toothbrush to access difficult areas like under the lid and the periphery of the tub and also the upper portion of the agitator. Don’t forget to clean the front and the side body of the machine.
After an hour, close the washing machine lid and let the cycle finish. Simultaneously, you could use this time to clean the dials and the top of the machine with the vinegar solution.
Once this cycle finishes, run another cycle with baking soda instead of vinegar or bleach. This will neutralise the vinegar or bleach and also help remove any residues from the previous cycle.
Once the second cycle is finished and the washer is drained, clean the washing machine with a vinegar solution and wipe down the sides and the bottom of the tub. Let the lid remain open after the cleaning process to dry out thoroughly and to prevent the development of mildew.
2. A Front Load Washing Machine
Following these easy steps will help you keep your front load washing machine super-clean.
What You Require
Vinegar
Bleach
Bucket
Sponger or cleaning rag
A clean cloth
Directions
Firstly, make sure the washing machine drum is empty. Then select the clean cycle or tub cleaner setting. If not available, set the washer on the hottest water setting and the longest wash setting, and fill the water to the level the machine is capable of holding. Following this, add two cups of vinegar into the detergent tray. The vinegar will help in eliminating any odour causing substances and residues. Let the entire wash and rinse cycle complete.
Once the first cycle is done and the washer is drained, repeat the cycle but add two cups of bleach to the detergent tray instead of vinegar. Cleaning with bleach helps remove stains and germs that have been accumulated in the tub, and cleans any leftover residues from the previous wash cycle.
Next, if all the stains have disappeared, run an additional cycle without adding anything to remove any residues completely.
Get a bucket full of warm water and liquid soap. Remove the parts of the detergent tray and soak it in the warm water for a few minutes. Once they are soaked, pick each piece and wipe them with a sponge. Let them dry thoroughly before you place them back again on the tray.
Next, pull back the rubber seal around the door to inspect for any icky stuff or residues. To clean it, pour a gallon of warm water containing one cup of chlorine bleach. Soak the cloth in the solution and wipe down the seal. Following this, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe off the seal of any residues and remaining moisture.
Lastly, use a damp cloth to clean the outsides of the machine just as nicely as the inside.
It is also important to clean the washing machine filter at regular intervals as clogged filters can damage the machine. Follow the instructions mentioned in the manufacturer’s manual to complete the process.
Another tip is to leave the door or the lid of the washing machine open between uses. Also, wipe down the seal at least once a month to avoid residue and the formation of odour-causing substances.
Best Practices for Maintaining Clean-smelling Washing Machine
You could also use the following everyday hacks to keep your clothes and the machine smelling clean always:
Take out the clothes from the washing machine after the wash cycle as soon as you can.
Leave the door or the lid of the washing machine open for some time to let the washer dry thoroughly and to prevent moist areas within the machine.
Wipe down the rubber seal with a cloth.
Pull the detergent tray out, scrub it clean, and leave it to dry after use.
Make sure you clean out the lint filter after each use. Remove all the lint and wash out the filter.
Run an empty hot wash cycle with 3 to 4 cups of white vinegar at least once a week. The hot water and vinegar will remove bacteria and mould.
FAQs
Below are the answers to a couple of frequently asked questions about cleaning the inside of a washing machine:
1. How Much Vinegar Should I Put in My Washing Machine to Clean It?
Around 900 ml to 1 litre of vinegar should be used to clean the washing machine.
2. Can I Clean the Washer with Baking Soda and Vinegar Using Cold Water Instead of Hot?
Yes, you can use, but it will not be as effective as hot water since hot water not only cleans but also sanitises.
These simple steps would help run the machine for longer and prevent the accumulation of lint and dirt. This will deter the development of bacteria and odour causing substances within the machine. Based on your usage, you should clean your washing machine once or twice a week. Top load washing machines run a higher risk of mould or mildew formations due to the remaining moisture inside the washer drum after every use. Front load washing machines also run the risk of damage due to clogged filters, residues, or stains and lack of attention to the rubber seal around the door of the machine while cleaning.
Hence, it is important to thoroughly clean every part of the washing machine such as a detergent tray, washer tub, the dials on the surface, agitator, washing machine filter, rubber seal, and the outside of the machine body as well! So, this weekend, clean your washing machine.
Also Read:
Things You Can Clean in Washing Machine
How to Clean a Smelly Washing Machine
Ways to Clean Kitchen Appliances Read more
Suggested for you
Protein Intake During Pregnancy
Proteins are the building blocks of health in your body. Adding protein to your diet is a necessity and a daily intake of protein is even more important for pregnant women in order to help provide for the growth and development of the foetus. In order to incorporate protein into your diet, you will first need to understand the benefits it has to offer, along with the quantity of protein that you need to consume for a healthy pregnancy.
Why Is Protein Needed When Pregnant?
Every cell in your body has protein in it. Protein contains amino acids which provide these cells the structure and the ability to function effectively and also help repair the cells. During pregnancy, protein is essential to aid the normal growth and development of the baby as it promotes
The growth as well as repair of new and damaged tissues
The production of antibodies for the immune system
Creation of hormones and enzymes
Proper functioning of muscles
Movement of oxygen through the blood
Healthy birth weight in babies
A high protein diet during pregnancy is especially important during the second and the third trimesters of pregnancy as this is the time when your baby will grow at a faster pace. During this time, your organs, breasts, and body are also growing in order to accommodate and provide for the baby. A good quantity of protein can help facilitate these changes as well.
What Is The Amount Of Protein Essential For Pregnant Women?
Most women require about 70 to 80 grams of protein during pregnancy, which is about 25 grams more than what you would need normally. Protein requirement in pregnancy varies based on your level of activity as well. If you are very active and engage in regular exercises, you may want to increase your protein intake to 80 to 100 grams each day.
The amount of protein required may also vary by weight. Adults usually need around 0.75 grams of protein for every kilogram that they weigh. Pregnant women will need an additional 6 grams of protein on top of this. Some women may need as little as 45 grams of protein each day, based on their body weight. You can always discuss with your gynaecologist about the exact quantity of protein that you will need based on your level of activity and body weight.
While the quantity of protein is important, the quality matters too. Most doctors agree that animal protein is the best quality protein. However, if you are a vegan or vegetarian, you can get your recommended amount of amino acids from a good serving of legumes and grains.
Don’t stress about hitting the mark of protein intake each day. As long as you can manage to eat an average amount over the course of a few days, your protein intake should be sufficient.
Protein Rich Foods During Pregnancy
There are several acceptable food sources that are recommended for pregnant women.
Food source
Protein content (per 100 gram)
Chicken breast without skin
32 g
Chicken eggs
12.5 g
Salmon
24.2 g
Mackerel
20.8 g
Cheddar cheese
25.4 g
Whole milk
3.3 g
Semi-skimmed milk
3.4 g
Cottage cheese
12.5 g
Peanut butter
23 g
Almonds
21.1 g
Walnuts
14.7 g
Chickpeas
8.4 g
Red lentils
7.6 g
Cooked beans
7.5 g
Oats porridge
12 g
Avocado
10 g
Yogurt
10 g
Plain soy milk
6 g
Roasted peanuts
25 g
Tofu
8 g
Wheat germ
31 g
Quinoa
13 g
Algae (Seaweed)
1.7 g
It is important to remember that not all fishes are safe during pregnancy. Some contain high quantity of mercury in them and are best avoided as mercury may cause developmental delays in babies. Fishes like sardines and salmon have a good amount of omega 3 fatty acids in them which are ideal for neurological development in children. Small portions of fish once or twice a week are sufficient for pregnant women.
Many people also consume whey protein or protein powder for the intake of protein. While there are no studies that have been conducted to warn against their use, you will not have to rely on them for pregnancy protein intake, if you are consuming a healthy amount of protein through food sources. In case you want to make it a part of your diet, however, you can discuss the same with your doctor.
Protein is not only a great addition to your baby’s nutritional needs, it is also equally important for you. Your body is working hard to provide for your baby and is going through a myriad of changes that require an adequate supply of energy. Proteins provide you with this energy and help you gain strength while helping promote growth in your baby. If you do not consume the required quantity of protein, you may face problems like weight loss, severe fatigue, excess water retention and infections during pregnancy. Babies that haven’t received the right amount of protein are at a higher risk of having low birth weight or developmental issues as well.
Also read: Eating Chicken During Pregnancy Read more
Suggested for you
5 Yummy Recipes to Make This Gudi Padwa Special
Gudi Padwa marks the beginning of the cultural new year for Maharashtrians. Every family celebrates by making Gudi Padwa special dishes. As they very easy to prepare, you can put together these mouth-watering recipes in a matter of hours.
Traditional Gudi Padwa Recipes
As with any other festive occasion, you would be looking forward to gorging on some great food items this Gudi Padwa. We’ve put together the top 5 recipes that define the very crux of this festival, are easy to prepare and would leave you wanting for more.
1. Kairi Panhe
Stalls and shops have begun offering this refreshing drink, in time for Gudi Padwa. The festival and this concoction literally go hand-in-hand.
[caption id="attachment_236075" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Source: Pinterest[/caption]
Total Cook Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 glasses
Ingredients:
Sugar - 3 cups
Salt
Black salt - 2 tsp
Cumin powder - 4 tsp, roasted
Kairi - 1 kg
Method:
Begin by boiling the raw mangoes properly. Once done, allow them to cool down a bit and peel them. Mash the mangoes together in a bowl. Take the pulp and strain it completely.
In a large cooking bowl, add about 5 cups of water and add the strained mango pulp to it. Mix it properly. Allow it to cook on a medium flame until it begins to thicken and becomes consistent.
Put sugar, salt, black salt and cumin powder and mix it all together. Let it cook for some more time and then turn off the flame.
Once it reaches room temperature, place it in the refrigerator, in the freezer if possible. While serving, you can dilute it to a consistency of your choice.
2. Goad Sheera
This popular Gudi Padwa food has multiple names. It is called Kesari Bhaat in the south, Sheera in Maharashtra, and Sooji Halwa in the north. With multiple variants to it, this continues to be a favourite every Gudi Padwa.
[caption id="attachment_236076" align="aligncenter" width="533"] Source: Pinterest[/caption]
Total Cook Time: 1 1/2 hours
Servings: 4-6 plates
Ingredients:
Sugar - ½ cup
Ghee - 1 tbsp
Raisins - 1 tbsp
Cashews - 1 tbsp
Cardamom powder - ½ tsp, green
Big sugar crystals - 25g
Saffron strands
Basmati rice - 1 cup
Method:
Allow the rice to soak in water for a good hour or so. Similarly, place some saffron strands in warm water as well.
Meanwhile, take the raisins and cashews in a pan and fry them properly with ghee. Place these aside.
In the pan with the ghee, add the rice and let it roast properly. Once the rice begins to separate, add water to the pan following up with water and saffron. Let this mixture cook for a while.
Put the sugar crystals or khadi saakhar and cook it on medium heat till the water is completely absorbed.
Take the sheera out in a serving bowl and sprinkle some more khadi saakhar and dry fruits on it. Serve warm.
3. Sabudana Wada
A popular item for people who usually fast, this also is a preferred choice for breakfast or snacks on Gudi Padwa day. When paired with some great mango chutney, the taste and flavour are incomparable.
Total Cook Time: 1/2 hour
Servings: 4-5 plates
Ingredients:
Oil
Salt
Lemon juice - 1 tbsp
Coriander leaves - 2 tbsp
Green chillies - 3
Peanuts - 1 cup, roasted
Potatoes - 3
Sabudana - 1.5 cups
Method:
For the initial prep, soak the sabudana in a good amount of water overnight or for at least 3 hours.
Boil the potatoes properly and mash them together.
Strain the water away from the sabudana and mix them together with the potatoes. Follow up with salt, coriander leaves, lemon juice, green chillies, and crushed peanuts; mix them together to form a nice dough.
Take small portions of this dough and pat them together to form flat patties. Make as many as required.
In a pan, add a little oil and let it heat up. Place the patties one by one and fry each side properly until it is brown and a nice aroma starts emanating.
Pair these sabudana wadas with some curd or green chutney and serve warm.
4. Shrikhand
When talking about Gudi Padwa festival food, the very recipe that defines it is none other than the popular dessert, Shrikhand. You can always get a box of Shrikhand from a shop, but preparing it at home in a special way brings a unique taste to it.
Total Cook Time: 1 1/2 hours
Servings: 4 plates
Ingredients:
Pista - 10
Almonds - 6
Cardamom powder - ¼ tsp, green
Nutmeg powder - 1/8 tsp
Milk - 2 tbsp, warm
Sugar - ½ cup
Yoghurt - 1 kg
Saffron strands
Method:
The preparation needs to begin a day in advance. This involves taking fresh yoghurt and tying it in a muslin cloth to drain the water out of it. Make sure you adjust the muslin cloth every few hours until all the water has been drained.
Once done, take this yoghurt in a bowl and mix sugar with it properly. Add a few strands of saffron to the warm milk and some to the yoghurt mix too. Follow up with cardamom and nutmeg powder and mix all this together.
Keep this mixture in the fridge and let it chill completely. Before serving, garnish with some dry fruits.
5. Puran Poli
Whether it is Holi or Gudi Padwa, Puran Poli is a traditional recipe made in every household. It is a sweet delicacy and allows you to welcome the new year with zest and sweetness.
Total Cook Time: 2 hours
Servings: 4 Puran Polis
Ingredients:
Ghee - ½ cup
Salt
Maida - 1.5 cups
Nutmeg powder - 1/8 tsp
Green cardamom powder - ¼ tsp
Saffron strands
Jaggery - 1.5 cups
Chana dal - 1.5 cups
Method:
Begin by boiling the washed chana dal and then grinding it.
Mix the ground dal with nutmeg and cardamom powder, along with saffron strands and jaggery.
Add the mixture to a pan and cook on a medium flame until it begins to soften. Allow it to cool down and keep it aside. This becomes your puran.
In a separate bowl, mix together ghee, salt and maida to form the dough. Knead this and wrap a damp cloth over it; allow it to sit for an hour or so.
Once done, take a portion of the dough and pat it down. Fill it with the puran and roll into a large thick roti.
On a large pan, cook the Puran Poli on both sides until it begins to get a brownish colour. Repeat with the remaining dough and puran.
Pair the poli with milk or ghee when serving.
Gudi Padwa sweets and meal recipes bring everyone together. By making these at home, you can bring a sense of homeliness and togetherness to the celebrations, and make them memorable.
Also Read:
Why Gudi Padwa is Celebrated?
How to Celebrate Gudi Padwa With Your Family
Best Gudi Padwa Wishes, Messages and Quotes Read more
Suggested for you
Breast feeding importance , advantages to baby ,tips for new Mother
Pregnancy is an important phase in every woman's life ofcourse marriage too but pregnancy is rebirth of woman.
Although we have been upgrading with technology , inventions, medicine advanced treatments the thing that doesn't changed which is natural process the beauty of motherhood - Breast feeding.
The good thing is many are aware of breast feeding advantages and are choosing breast feeding these days rather bottle feeding.
Advantages of Breast feeding
* Contains all minerals and nutrients
* Improves immunity power
* Brain development elements
* Soothes baby,jaw exercise
* Controls mother's weight
* Mother and baby Bonding
* Relives from post partum stress.
* Avoid chances of breast cancer in women.
For lactating mother have to prepare while Pregnancy doing regular nipple massages and after delivery clean nipples including lactating foods in diet , following hygiene (cleaning nipples, hands before and after feeding).
$ Garlic milk
$ Garlic cloves in Curries
$ Poppy seeds
$ Papaya (raw papaya curry)
$ Chikoo (Sapota)
$ Rusk
$ Bread toast/roasted bread
$ Milk and diary products
$ Having more water, giving frequent feeds will increase milk supply.
Until 1.5 - 2 years doctors suggesting breast feeding if mother having no health issues .
But breast feeding to toddlers is difficult task when compared to infants as we women face a lot of issues while feeding in public,we think of going outside mostly the dressing,comfort and essentials and all bla bla bla.. Though we have feeding rooms/blocks in many public places for feeding mothers we feel bit awkward to feed a toddler because their tantrums, to carry feeding essentials, hurry burry we mostly prefer not to go out right !!!

If you are one of them then let's break this Breastfeed your toddler ,plan trips enjoy your day /trip with BELLA MAMA Maternity and feeding kurtas👗 and essentials now offer is going on... If you are a pregnant 🤰or Breastfeeding Mom 🤱or planning for pregnancy 👣then why late grab soon🛍️🛍️💃...
Read more
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
11 hours ago
Q. Hi, for May 1st they will check AFI fluid... should I need to be on empty bladder for that scan... which is around 37 weeks
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 hours ago
A. It’s completely normal this kind of an ultrasound is different it is not necessary that your stomach should be full or you should go empty stomach you can have your basic breakfast and all whatever you would want to eat before you go ahead with getting a scan and there is no need to go empty stomach for the scan
Rayan has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. hi everyone..the position of my baby is still in breech position from first trimester till now as I entered in my third trimester position is still breech is it normal..
Rayan
Mom of 2 children
2 hours ago
A. Check your scan report
Manali K Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. Mera Mera 7th month end pe hai ab scan Karate doctor please tell me
Manali K Mehta
Mom of 2 children
36 mins ago
A. hi parent
I suggest you please consult with your gynecologist and follow their instructions
please maintain hygiene properly with Babyhug instant sanitizer
Rayan has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
10 hours ago
Q. what types of clothes are good for a new born baby during summers
Rayan
Mom of 2 children
2 hours ago
A. Cotton, Muslin clothes can be used. Prefer white or light coloured clothes since it absorb less heat.
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 10 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexperts please suggest diet plan for wait gain of my 2 years old baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. normal traditional food rich in protein ok. 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
1 hour ago
Q. My due date is 5/5/24 but doctor was saying that baby head didn't get down.is it possible normal delivery for me
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
49 mins ago
A. depends on many factors your doctor can explain you after ultrasound examination. 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
Check out this new Memory
Nilima
Mom of a 9 m old boy
New Milestone
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Poonam singh
Mom of a 7 m old girl
1 min ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Pradeep panday Panday
Father of a 2 yr 4 m old girl
1 min ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
madhu
Mom of a 4 m old girl
2 mins ago
#lilsuperstar
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Chandni Sonigra
Mom of a 9 m old boy
2 mins ago
#happybaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive