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Lump in Breast during Breastfeeding
A lump in the breast is quite common in nursing mothers but it should not be ignored in any case. After a few days of giving birth to your little baby, your breasts may feel hard as they are engorged with breastmilk. You may also feel lumps in your breasts, but these are mostly plugged milk ducts, which will go in a few days. However, if a lump does not go away in a week or two, you will need to see a doctor. There are many possible reasons for getting a lump in the breast and of course, it will worry you, but if it is diagnosed at the right time, your life will be saved.
Is a Lump in Breast Normal while Breastfeeding?
As mentioned above, a lump in the breast is quite normal when you are nursing. It may be caused due to different reasons which can be treated or require no treatment at all. However, if you have a lump in your breast and it does not pain then it could be a sign of cancer. Therefore, if your symptoms are that of mastitis and they persist for more than 3 days, consulting a doctor to root it out is ideal.
Types of Lumps in the Breast
Listed below are some of the types of breast lumps.
1. Plugged Ducts
If the milk gets blocked in one area of the breast, then you may have plugged milk ducts. It may be caused due to milk stasis (milk stays in the ducts) or because of improper latching due to incorrect feeding position. Wearing a tight bra or tight clothes can also cause plugged ducts.
2. Engorged Breasts
At some point, most mothers may feel painful lumps in the breasts. This may be because of breast engorgement. It may lead to hard and swollen breasts and the engorged breasts may develop lumps. These lumps ease out once the milk is drained out manually or by a pump. This occurs when the baby is unable to suckle properly and as a result, the milk does not come.
3. Mastitis
Mastitis is basically a lump or swelling in the breast accompanied by pain, redness, and tenderness. It is caused when a plugged duct goes untreated and the milk builds up behind the ducts and causes inflammation due to infection. It is usually accompanied by a fever.
4. Breast Abscess
An abscess is formed due to pus in the breast. It usually occurs due to untreated or badly treated mastitis. It is necessary to drain out an abscess either by a needle or catheter aspiration along with antibiotics or it can lead to extreme pain and fever.
5. Galactoceles (Lacteal cyst or Milk cyst)
It is a cyst located near the mammary gland which retains milk or milk substance due to obstruction in the milk ducts. Usually, it does not cause any infection and goes away on its own once the mother stops nursing.
6. Fibroadenoma
It is a benign breast tumour and is more common in females between the ages of 15 and 30. It is a tumour of the gland and fibrous tissues. Unlike some breast lumps which come and go according to the monthly cycle, fibroadenoma does not disappear after the cycle. It rarely occurs in women in their postmenopausal stage.
7. Lipomas
Lipomas are fatty lumps that grow slowly in breasts or any other region. They do not grow more than 2 cms in diameter. They are round or oval in shape, rubbery to feel, and may move easily with a slight pressure. Such lumps can be more than one in number at one place.
8. Intraductal Papillomas
Intraductal papillomas are non-cancerous growth in the milk ducts of the breast. A solitary intraductal papilloma is a single tumour that grows in the large milk duct near the nipple. Some women have more than one and some may even experience bloody discharge from the growths.
9. Fat Necrosis
These lumps are a result of an injury to the fatty tissues in the breasts and require treatment if the condition persists for a long time. However, it is not dangerous and can be cured with the right treatment.
10. Breast Cancer
It is usually a hard or a firm lump usually causing no pain. It can originate either in the nipple or in the breast. However, it usually originates in the upper outer quadrant. Some large malignant tumours may compress the other parts of the breast or grow through the skin and can be very painful.
Tips to Follow If You Find a Breast Lump
It is important for women to self-examine their breasts for any lump, and if they find any, follow these tips to treat it as much as possible:
If you are a nursing mother, the lump could be due to engorgement or plugged ducts. To treat it, you can take a warm bath or opt for a warm compress, with a towel dipped in warm water to unclog the lump just before nursing.
After a warm bath or compress, massage the area of the lump and express the milk with your hands or pump it out.
Nurse your baby frequently as this will unclog your milk ducts and drain out the milk.
Take painkillers like Ibuprofen if you experience pain in the lump.
Stay hydrated; drink lots of water, juices, and soups, especially if you have a temperature.
Many times, lumps may occur due to tight bras. Therefore, wear a bra which provides good support but is not too tight. Also, avoid wearing underwire bras as they put pressure on the milk ducts.
If the lump does not subside in 3-4 days; if you see pus and blood in the milk; if there is discharge from the nipple, see a doctor at earliest.
Get all the right tests done to rule out the malignancy of the lump.
Figure out if the lump is a cyst or a tumour.
In case it is a cyst, you do not require further investigation and in case it is a tumour, have an autopsy done to find out whether it is benign or malignant.
In case you learn it to be cancerous, do a bit of research to educate yourself on the treatment process. Talk to various people to know about the best doctor who could take your case.
When you visit an oncologist, feel free to ask all the questions you have.
The last and the most important of all, relax and stay positive.
How Is a Breast Lump Diagnosed in Breastfeeding Mothers?
Listed below are the tests which are performed to diagnose lumps in the breast in breastfeeding mothers:
1. X-Ray
Doctors suggest an X-Ray to see through the breast tissue and other tissues like bones, lungs, etc., for any abnormality.
2. Ultrasound and CT Scan
A computed tomography scan (CT scan) is done to see if it is cancerous growth and to check whether cancer has moved to the chest walls or to other parts of the body.
3. Mammograms
It is the most effective test to detect breast cancer. This test can detect cancer even before the symptoms appear. A mammogram is done to check whether the breast lump is benign or cancerous.
4. MRI
The test tells you whether the treatment is working on you or not by showing the progress of a tumour.
5. Fine Needle Aspiration
If earlier tests indicate breast cancer, then the doctor may ask for fine needle aspiration biopsy in which some fluid is taken out from the affected area to look for cancer cells.
6. Stereotactic Core Biopsy
It is an alternative method of surgical biopsy and a less intrusive way to get the tissues required to detect cancer.
7. Surgical Biopsy
A surgical biopsy is done when the result of a needle biopsy is not clear. Under local anaesthesia, a part of the lump or the entire lump is removed through a small opening.
Treatment for Breast Lumps while Breastfeeding
Not all breast lumps need treatment. Benign lumps like fibroadenoma do not need any remedy and cause no harm. Lumps caused due to injuries also subside when given time to heal.
Treatment options for lumps in the breast include:
1. Fine Needle Draining
Fine needle draining is a simple procedure and does not take much time. If there is an abscess or a cyst it will be drained with a fine needle.
2. Antibiotics
Lumps caused due to breast infections can be treated using antibiotics.
3. Lumpectomy
This is a treatment procedure to remove lumps surgically when they are cancerous.
4. Mastectomy
Mastectomy is performed in order to remove the cancerous breast tissue as a way to prevent breast cancer.
5. Chemotherapy
If the lump has been diagnosed as cancerous, then the doctor may suggest chemotherapy for the same. Depending on the stage of cancer, your doctor will suggest if you should go for chemotherapy or not.
6. Radiation
If the lump is cancerous, it can also be treated with radiation therapy where the patient has to undergo doses of radiation in accordance with the stage of cancer.
How to Prevent Lumps in Breasts while Nursing
Here are some ways to prevent lumps in the breast:
Try to breastfeed your baby at regular intervals.
Always clean your nipples and areola with the help of cotton dipped in warm water.
Massage your breasts in a circular motion to prevent the milk to accumulate in one place.
Lumps in the breast while breastfeeding can be due to a number of reasons and not just breast cancer. Therefore, it is imperative to educate people that there is nothing to fear as soon as a person comes across a lump in her breast.
Also Read: Breast Pain during Breastfeeding Read more
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Taking Vitamin B12 in Pregnancy
Proper nutrition throughout the pregnancy is important for the optimum well-being of the mother and the baby. Pregnancy is a time of bigger metabolic demands owing to the bodily changes of a pregnant woman and the needs of the growing foetus. Inadequate supply of essential vitamins during pregnancy can be detrimental to the health of both the mother and her unborn baby.
One such lesser-known but crucial nutrient is Vitamin B12. During pregnancy, this nutrient is vital as it may promote the normal development of the nervous system and the brain in unborn babies. A study conducted found that unsatisfactory dietary intake of the same during pregnancy can cause sleeplessness and extreme crying behaviour in babies during their initial months after birth. A new study reveals that its deficiency during pregnancy can also result in possible neural tube defects in babies.
What is Vitamin B12?
This is nothing but a bacterium produced by microorganisms mainly found in the human body and animals. It comprises of cobalt which confers it with its chemical name cobalamin. It may occur in many forms like hydroxocobalamin which our body can process in the forms of methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Our liver can store it for a certain period. However, malabsorption by the human body due to gastric issues may lead to its deficiency.
How Much Vitamin B12 is Recommended in Pregnancy?
The dietary requirement of this nutrient can increase manifold during pregnancy as the growing unborn baby may require it for it optimal development. The likely question a pregnant woman may ask is can I take Vitamin B12 while pregnant or how much b12 is safe during pregnancy? Doctors generally recommend a supply of 3.5 ugs per day when pregnant to prevent a deficiency. Therefore, a pregnant woman may need a dosage of 250 to 500 ug per day to meet her daily requirement. It is sensible to keep the dosage level on a slightly higher side to cater for the rate of absorption by the human body.
Vitamin B12 Supplements During Pregnancy
There are primarily two ways of obtaining vitamin B12. One is by consuming food items rich in the vitamin and the second is by taking additional supplements.
Are they Safe?
Many women may want to know if is it ok to take vitamin b12 while pregnant? The answer is it may be necessary to take supplements during pregnancy if a deficiency is assumed to avoid any probable harm to the mother and the growing foetus. But avoiding extremes and maintaining a balance is important during pregnancy. Therefore before taking any supplements, it is wise to consult a doctor who can ascertain the right dosage for you. Your doctor may suggest injections or nasal gels for treatment of b12 deficiency in pregnancy.
In any case, being careful while pregnant should be the norm. Overdosage may not be a desirable thing. A study indicates that undue measures of vitamin B12 during pregnancy can intensify the chance of autism spectrum disorders in a baby after birth.
Being a water-soluble nutrient may get excreted out the body by way of urine in case of excess. It may be safe to state that suitable supplementation is protective and negative side-effects of taking vitamin B12 supplements is highly unlikely.
When to Take?
Most pregnant women may get their required supply from a nutritious diet and their prenatal vitamins. However, pregnant women following restrictive diets like vegan or vegetarians may need supplements. Also, if a deficiency already exists vitamin b12 injections during pregnancy may be suggested by a doctor.
Benefits of Vitamin B12 During Pregnancy
Some important reasins why you need this nutrient include:
It may help in food absorption, digestion and proper metabolism thereby preventing gastric troubles during pregnancy.
It may aid in the good running of the nervous system and healthy brain function of a pregnant woman.
It may promote healthy nerve, spine and brain development in the growing foetus.
It may help in the blood formation which can prevent the risk of anaemia in pregnant women.
The importance of vitamin B 12 during pregnancy can be understood by the fact that it is beneficial for boosting the immune system thus safeguarding pregnant women from falling prey to diseases.
It can help effectively combat the various pregnancy symptoms like fatigue, weakness, mood swings, constipation.
It also helps in the production of DNA (the molecule that holds the genetic code for every cell in our body).
Vitamin B12 Deficiency during Pregnancy
It is important to treat this deficiency when pregnant.
How to Check for Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
In case a pregnant woman experiences extreme weakness, rapid breathing and heart rate, pale skin during pregnancy she should check with a doctor who may want to test her for vitamin B 12 deficiency. The doctor may recommend some blood test to determine the count of red blood cells and the presence of methylmalonic acid. The higher levels of methylmalonic acid may indicate lower levels of vitamin B12 in the body. In case the blood tests expose a deficiency, the doctor may conduct additional tests to establish the type and cause like antibodies test, Schilling test.
Risks and Complications
Vitamin B12 deficiency during pregnancy can pose many risks and complications for both the mom and her baby.
For Mom
Some of the likely risks for the mom can be:
Deficiency can cause megaloblastic anaemia which can result in greater weakness or tiredness in pregnant women.
Insufficient levels during pregnancy can trigger gastric troubles like constipation, acidity.
Deficiency when pregnant may increase the risk of premature delivery.
Low levels during pregnancy can lead to the development of diabetes later on.
For Foetus
Some of the probable negative effects of vitamin B12 deficiency on the foetus can be:
Neural Tube Defects
Deficiency during pregnancy can trigger neural tube defects in the unborn baby affecting his spinal cord and brain. Neural tube defects involve partial paralysis and anencephaly (skull and brain are underdeveloped) which is a fatal condition.
Effects the DNA Process
Low vitamin b12 in pregnancy can negatively impact the DNA synthesis process for the unborn baby.
Low Birth Weight
Unsatisfactory levels during pregnancy can result in the baby being born with a low birth weight which may give rise to complications like requiring incubation.
Diabetes
Deficiency during pregnancy may prompt certain metabolic disorders in the baby like type 2 diabetes.
Foods Rich in Vitamin B12
Here are foods that are rich in vitamin B12:
Milk
Cottage cheese
Swiss/Emmental cheese
Yoghurt
Eggs
Meat
Lamb
Pork
Turkey
Poultry
Beef
Fish like salmon
Shellfish
Fortified breakfast cereals
Nutritional yeast
Fortified soy milk
Fortified foods made of soybeans or wheat gluten
Rice beverages
Fortified oat or almond beverage
Feta, gruyere, gouda, brie cheese
Soy burger
Pregnant women must ensure that their pregnancy diet consists of foods high in vitamin B12 content. Vegan pregnant women who consume no animal products may opt for supplements upon consultation with their doctor to lower the risks of deficiency related complications.
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Breakfast Food Ideas and Recipes for Weight Loss
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and having a wholesome breakfast can help you lose weight the healthy way. Eating the right foods at the right time can curb your cravings and keep you full until lunchtime. If you are looking for some breakfast ideas, then look no further. Here are some foods that you can have in your breakfast. These foods are healthy and can help you lose weight.
Foods That Can Help You Lose Weight
Listed below are few breakfast ideas that will fill your stomach as well as aid in weight loss.
1. Brown Bread Cucumber Sandwich
Brown bread is considered to be a healthier option in comparison to other varieties of bread. Toast two slices of bread. Place cucumber slices on one slice of the toasted bread. Sprinkle some black pepper on it and cover it with another slice on it. You will have a wholesome breakfast in a matter of minutes.
2. Oats
Nothing can surpass the goodness of oats and if you are trying to lose weight you must include oats in your breakfast. Oats are low in calories and contain nutrients like complex carbohydrates and protein. These two nutrients can keep you full for longer and prevent you from binge eating.
3. Poha
Other than being a great way to fill your stomach in the morning, flattened rice with which poha is made is a rich source of Vitamin B, iron, protein, carbohydrate and amino acids. It is considered to be a metabolism booster which helps in burning down fat and helping one lose weight.
4. Corn Flakes with Milk
Corn flakes with skimmed milk is a nutritious breakfast for those who have no time to cook up a meal in the morning. It is low in calories and therefore an ideal option for people looking for ways to lose weight.
5. Egg Sandwich
Boiled egg sans the yolk is the healthiest non-vegetarian breakfast one can think of. Season the egg whites with a little salt and black pepper powder and use it as a sandwich filling. Eating eggs can meet your protein requirements which can make you feel full thereby making you eat less.
6. Yoghurt
If you wish to have a healthy breakfast which will be light on your stomach try yoghurt. You can add fruits, muesli, or cornflakes to it. Yoghurt is a good source of protein which can make you feel full for a longer time since it takes a longer time to digest.
7. Fruit Salad
Eating fresh fruits in the morning can make your day. Eating fresh fruit salad in breakfast can be very healthy for you, as it is low in calories. You should avoid adding sugar to it if you want to keep it healthy!
8. Rawa Upma
Rawa (semolina) is low on fat and is a good source of protein which makes it ideal for weight loss. Add in some vegetables for extra nutrition and cook it in less oil and see the difference in your weight in a few months time.
9. Chilla
Moong dal chilla is a healthy mix of nutrition and taste. The main ingredient in this dish moong dal is rich in protein which helps in weight loss. When on your weight loss mission, use very little oil to cook it.
10. Paratha
Paratha is prepared with wheat which is healthy, and when pure ghee goes into it, it becomes super healthy. Yes, people believe that one should not consume ghee when trying to lose weight, but that's not entirely true. Nowadays, many dieticians recommend eating ghee. Although the quantity should be less. You can eat paratha with a simple sabzi or curd.
Healthy Breakfast Recipes for Weight Loss
Starting your day with a good, healthy breakfast is very important on any given day; more so when you are trying to lose weight. Here are some breakfast recipes that will help you lose weight. These breakfast foods are healthy and nutritious and also taste delicious.
1. Oats Upma
Including oats upma in your weight loss breakfast menu is a must since oats help in weight loss. Oats are high in fibre and low in calories. When you make upma, we know you will add vegetables, which will make it all the more nutritious.
What You Need
Oats - 2 cups
Onion (chopped) - 1/4th cup
Ginger (finely minced) - 2-3 tbsp
A carrot (small cubes) - 1/4th cup
Green peas - 1/4th cup
French beans (chopped) - 1/4th cup
Cauliflower (cut into small florets) - 1/4th cup
Tomatoes (chopped) - ½ cup
Green chilli (finely chopped) - 2-3 tbsp
Coriander leaves (finely chopped) - 1/4th cup
Ghee - 2-3 tbsp
Turmeric powder - 1 tsp
Chilli powder - 1 tsp
Curry leaves - 4-5
Channa dal - 2 tbsp
Mustard seeds - 1 tsp
Salt to taste
How to Make
Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in a non-stick pan. Once the ghee is hot, sauté the oats until they turn light brown in colour.
Transfer the oats to a bowl and pour 2-3 tbsp of ghee in the same pan.
Add the mustard seeds, curry leaves, chopped onions, and ginger and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
Add all the vegetables and cook them. Don't add tomatoes.
Once they are almost cooked, add the tomatoes and a little salt.
Then add the turmeric powder and chilli powder, and give it a nice stir.
Add 2 cups of hot water in it then add the oats.
Stir it a bit, put a lid and let it cook for 4-5 minutes on a low flame.
Once cooked, turn off the flame and garnish it with the coriander leaves.
2. Dalia
Dalia is basically broken wheat and it is one of the best Indian breakfasts for weight loss. Since it is a good source of fibre and protein, it can keep you full for longer and prevent you from eating more. Eating dalia can also help in increasing your metabolic rate.
What You Need
Dalia - ½ cup
Moong dal - 1/4th cup
Ginger (finely minced) - 1 tbsp
Carrots (diced) - 2 tbsp
Green peas - 1/4th cup
French beans (chopped) - 2-3 tbsp
Onion (chopped) - 1/4th cup
A tomato (chopped) - 1/4th cup
Cumin seeds - 1 tsp
Tumeric powder - 1 tbsp
Ghee - 2 tbsp
1 bay leaf
1 dried red chilli
Salt to taste
Water
How to Make
Wash and soak the dalia in water for half an hour.
Wash the moong dal and soak it in water.
Heat some ghee in a pressure cooker; once the ghee is hot, add the cumin seeds, bay leaf, and dried red chilli to it.
Then add the chopped onions and ginger, and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
Then add the vegetables one by one.
Mix the vegetables well then add the turmeric powder and chopped tomatoes.
Strain the water from the dal and dalia.
Add both to the pressure cooker and add 1 ½ cup of hot water.
Add salt and let it cook for three whistles.
3. Paneer Paratha
Surprised to know that paneer parathas help in weight loss? This is because paneer is low on sugar and cholesterol and rich in calcium and protein. Paneer helps in keeping the stomach full for a longer period, therefore, curbing your chances of eating unhealthy foods.
What You Need
Multigrain flour - 1 cup
Paneer (grated) - 1 cup
Onion (diced) - 1/4th cup
Green chilli (finely chopped) - 1-2 tbsp
Ginger (finely minced) - 1-2 tbsp
Chilli powder - 2 tsp
Coriander leaves (finely chopped) - 2-3 tbsp
Salt to taste
Ghee - 4-5 tbsp
Water as required
How to Make
Take the multigrain flour in a large bowl and add water to it to knead a dough. Keep it aside.
In another bowl, mix the paneer, chopped onions, chilli, chilli powder, ginger, coriander leaves, and salt.
Take a small ball from the dough, make a depression in the middle, and keep some paneer filling on it.
Seal it and roll it out.
Place the rolled out paratha on a hot tawa.
Cook the paratha from one side then flip it and add some ghee on top. Let it cook from the other side.
Let it cook well from both the sides on a low flame until golden brown.
4. Ragi Dosa
South Indian cuisine has several weight loss breakfast recipes for vegetarians out of which the ragi dosa is one of the best. Ragi is a healthy grain. It is low on the glycemic index and rich in calcium and protein.
What You Need
Ragi grains - 1 cup
Urad dal - 1/4th cup
An onion cut into half
Salt to taste
Ghee
How to Make
Soak ragi and urad dal in two separate vessels overnight.
In the morning, grind both of them separately.
Mix them in a bowl and some salt to it.
Let it ferment for 6-8 hours.
Heat a non-stick tawa and pour a teaspoon of ghee on it, and spread it with the onion.
Take some batter, pour it on the hot tawa and spread it evenly all over.
Lower the flame and let it cook.
After sometime flip it to the other side and cook it.
Serve it with tomato and green chilli chutney.
5. Egg Bhurji
Egg bhurji is one of the healthiest breakfast options. It can be eaten as an accompaniment with chapati, paratha, or bread. For weight loss, make egg bhurji with only the white of egg and ghee instead of the usual vegetable oil.
What You Need
Egg whites - 2
Onion (diced) - 1/4th cup
Green chilli (chopped) - 1 tbsp
Capsicum (diced) - 2-3 tbsp
Carrots (diced): 2-3 tbsp
Tomatoes (diced) - 1/4th cup
Ginger (finely minced) - 1 tsp
Coriander leaves (finely chopped) - 2-3 tbsp
Garam masala powder - 1/4th tsp
Salt to taste
Ghee for frying
How to Make
Heat 2-3 tbsp of ghee in a non-stick tawa.
Once the ghee is hot, add the chopped onions, green chilli, and ginger.
Once the onions turn golden brown, add the vegetables and fry them for 2-3 minutes on low flame.
Whisk the egg whites and add them to the fried vegetables.
Add the salt and garam masala powder to it and scramble the eggs.
Garnish with coriander leaves.
So, there are some of the healthy breakfast options that you can include in your weight loss diet plan. Losing weight can seem tough, but by eating healthy foods and exercising daily, it won't seem that hard.
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The Art of Toy Rotation - Your Step By Step Guide
Even if you give your child a truck-full of toys to play with every day, eventually, she will get bored. After a point, she will stop playing with them, and look for new ventures. This is when the importance of toy rotation slips in.
The system of toy rotation helps the child discover something new in an old toy, every time she plays with it. It enhances the child’s intellect, by giving her an opportunity to experience something new each time. It keeps the child engaged for a longer time, as it increases her interest in the toy. This method enhances the child’s intellect as well as her creative faculties. It will do a world of good to your child, and give you an opportunity to sneak in some valuable free time. Still wondering what the art of toy rotation is all about? Read on to find out how it benefits your child.
What Are the Benefits of Toy Rotation?
Toy rotation is a way to organise your children's toys into specific groups and giving your children access to only one or two groups of toys at a time. This has several advantages - it makes cleaning up much easier, reduces the clutter in your home, and makes children appreciate and play with all of the toys in the group that you give them.
The system of rotating toys for babies is a fantastic way to keep your child engaged by rotating sets of old toys on a daily basis. This system ensures that your child uses what she already has. Some of its benefits are listed below:
Your child’s creative and intellectual faculties are enhanced when she finds new ways to play with an old toy.
Even though your child plays with her old toys in this system, she remains engrossed and occupied. This eventually results in increased playtime.
Rotating toys and having only a set of few toys to play with every day keeps clutter at bay. This means less cleaning for the parent. The house will also look tidier and not like a toy shop.
Parents are spared from spending money on buying new toys every now and then, and children from being spoilt of choice.
While stacking away the day’s toys, you will have a better idea and accountability of the toys that are fine and can be played with, and toys which need to be disposed of.
Too many toys to choose from not only spoil your child but can also stress her out. The very thought of what to choose and what to leave can put your child under pressure. Through the toy rotation method, a child has less number of toys to choose from which eases off the pressure.
Allowing your child to play with a certain toy once a week or in 10 days makes her value the toy more. If your child is given the same toys to play with every day, she will lose interest in the toy and may refuse to play with it.
This method makes your child’s playroom more organised now that all the toys are neatly stacked away in boxes. It also makes it easy for you to keep a tab on all her toys while cleaning them up. You need not go treasure hunting for the toy parts all around the house.
It also teaches a child how to be independent and play on her own. This gives the mother some time for herself or time to spend with the other baby in case of a second child.
Toy rotation encourages a child to help mommy clean up and keep the playroom more organized. Since there are separate boxes for a separate set of toys, it becomes easy for the child to keep her toy back in the correct box. This way, the mother also gets some help in cleaning the play area, and it inculcates a sense of responsibility in the child from a tender age.
Simple Steps for Rotating Toys
Having too many toys to choose from and play overwhelms children and makes playtime stressful for them. Therefore, if you want your child’s playtime to be joyful, full of fun, new experiences and learning, introduce the system of toy rotation. Here is the stepwise guide to help you with toy rotation.
1. Observing
After the idea of toy rotation hits you, and you make up your mind to implement it, monitor your child closely. Keep an eye on the toys in which she shows more interest or disinterest. Pay attention to the time span of each toy play.
2. Select
Now that you have observed your child for a few days, select the toys that you feel she may be interested in. You can also dispose of the toys which are broken or beyond repair. Giving away toys which your child is not fond of or too old to play with is a good way to de-clutter the space.
3. Segregate
After selecting toys, you should segregate toys in the following criteria:
Cognitive and fine motor development - puzzles
Gross motor development – balls, vehicles, trains
Socio-emotional and language development – dolls, toy utensils
4. Organize
According to your child’s requirement, you can organize toys in different categories.
Daily - In this type of rotation, you need to have seven sets of toys; one for each day of the week.
Weekly - Here, you require 4 sets of toys for each week of the month. The child will get one set of toys to play with. Since you know your child well, it is solely up to you to decide how many toys should go in each set.
Monthly - This rotation requires you to rotate toys only once a month. 3 to 6 boxes of toys are enough. However, if you wish to have a new set every month, then you could have 12 sets.
Random - In this type of rotation, you can have several boxes with toys in them. You may give a new set of toys whenever you see your child getting bored of one set. This system of rotation is helpful for children with a short attention span.
5. Naming
Write down names on each box according to their categories or function. This will make it easy for you to select boxes while giving them to your child.
Keep a notebook and use a separate page for each category of toys.
Leave space for notes and note down which toys your kids play with and which ones they barely touch.
Having these remarks will help you when you go shopping for toys the next time. You will know what kind of toys your kids are into at the moment.
6. Arrange
Arrange each category into subcategories having a set of toys for each. For instance:
Puzzles and board games: These toys target the development of fine motor skills and cognitive skills in children.
Balls, pull-alongs, and vehicles: These toys target the development of gross motor skills in your kids.
Building blocks, soft toys, and dolls: These target fine motor skill development as well as emotional and social development skills in your kids.
7. Putting them in boxes
Put each category or subcategory of toys in each box. Remember never mix up categories/subcategories.
Have a group of toys for each category of toys.
Make 3-4 groups in each category such that your children are fully engaged with those toys.
Take help from family members like grandparents or aunts to organise this.
8. Stock Up
Stock up toys for future use. However, remember to keep them in places where your little one may not be able to reach.
Keep 2-3 boxes of toys hidden away.
When your kids are bored of the current box, you can swap it with a new one.
9. Exhibit
Place the boxes of toys on the shelf or some extra toys on display and see your little one light up.
Display the toys that you are giving them access to.
Note down which ones they play with and put the unused ones back into storage.
10. Change
According to the needs of your child and the way you have planned, rotate and change the set of toys.
Every 15 days to one month, swap the toys with a different box which the kids did not have access to previously.
Remember to put away the old toys before bringing out the new ones.
Now that you know what toy rotation is and how it works, implement this system at home. It may not work for you or your child initially; however, after a point of time, you will witness its benefits. Go ahead and give it a try.
Also Read:
Functional Play Importance in Kid's Growth and Development
Benefits of Activity Boxes for Children
Effects of Violent Toys on Kids Read more
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World Toilet Day 2021 - History, Significance, and Facts
Do you know that 40% of the world’s population, i.e. 4.2 billion people, do not have access to proper sanitation facilities? Yes, you read it right! Even though we humans have achieved a significant milestone in technology, agriculture, space research, and bioscience, we still haven’t crossed one hurdle of hygiene and sanitization. Poor sanitation increases the risk of diseases and malnutrition, primarily in women and children. To shed light on the great importance of toilets and hygiene, the United Nations had established World Toilet Day in 2013.
What Is World Toilet Day?
World Toilet Day is dedicated to raising awareness of sanitation and health crisis across the globe. The United Nations Water, along with the governments across the world, focus on building sustainable initiatives that will tackle climate change and global sanitation plight. Global communities, big and small, profit and non-profit, have come up with thousands of innovations that have the potential of wiping out this crisis in the coming years.
By 2030 Sustainable Development goals, the United Nations hopes that it will ensure the availability and management of proper sanitation facilities and water in all countries.
When It Is Observed
The United Nations General Assembly has declared November 19 as World Toilet Day. World Toilet Day date is a reminder about the people who live in severe poverty and poor sanitation circumstances.
History of World Toilet Day
A dedicated philanthropist from Singapore, Jack Sim, established the World Sanitation Organization on November 19, 2001, to stress sanitation systems, processes and public awareness. Later, this day was renamed World Toilet Day by the United Nations to ease public understanding since toilets are considered the first and foremost subject of sanitation.
Soon after, the WTO started to raise awareness globally and established World Toilet Day as a global health crisis. Following active support for this day by many institutions, the United Nations declared the right to sanitation and water a human right.
In 2013, the Government of Singapore and the World Toilet Organisation participated in a joint initiative, and the UN’s first resolution was passed - Sanitation for All, to diminish the sanitation crisis around the world. The resolution was adopted by around 122 countries at the UN General Assembly held in New York.
Another resolution passed by the United Nations Secretary Ban Ki-Moon, named Call to Action on Sanitation, aims to end open defecation by 2025.
The Importance of World Toilet Day
Did you know that Diarrhea is the second leading disease causing the death of children below the age of five? The fact that this disease is entirely preventable with access to clean water and basic sanitation facilities is a reminder of the milestone we still haven’t achieved. India, the second-largest populated country, tops the chart of having the worst sanitation facilities in the world.
Why do we need the World Toilet Day celebration? Here are the following reasons:
1. Raise Awareness
World Toilet Day needs to be celebrated in every country as it is a subject many people consider inappropriate to discuss. With a massive leap in technological advancements, we need to broaden our mindsets and welcome this day. Posting awareness on social media platforms, at public places, and educational and work institutions is necessary.
2. Climate Crisis
Since climate crisis is another emergency we are facing today, it is imperative that we focus on innovations that are not just solutions, but sustainable solutions. Sanitation and water go hand in hand. We have to create such solutions that reduce the sanitation problem and sustainably manage procurement and wastage management of water for all.
3. Urgency
The sanitation crisis is increasing at an alarming rate, which cannot be ignored anymore. Every year around 3 million children die of poor sanitation facilities and exposed water. This leads to a decline in the GDPs of poorer countries, due to which poor countries remain in a vicious circle of poverty and hygiene.
How One Can Observe World Toilet Day
The official convener of World Toilet Day, UN-Water, choose a new theme every year for this day. ‘Leaving no one behind’ was the official theme of World Toilet Day for 2019. Prior to 2019, other themes included ‘toilets and nutrition’, ‘wastewater’, ‘nature-based solutions’, etc. This year’s theme is ‘valuing toilets’.
There are many ways you can observe International Toilet Day with friends, classmates, and teachers. Several educational institutions and companies, and public places also celebrate this day.
1. Gain knowledge
The first and foremost thing to do is gather knowledge of the crisis, historical circumstances, and current statistics. You can start by learning about the history of toilets, from ancient Greeks and Romans to brilliant Indus valley civilizations. Then, you can do some research on the current sanitation situation in your home country and compare it with global richer and poorer countries. This comparison will give a clear picture of your country’s improved sanitation situation.
2. Visit museums and institutions dedicated to the subject of awareness
Do you know that there is a museum in the capital city of India, Delhi, dedicated entirely to toilets? The Sulabh International Museum of Delhi by an India-based NGO Sulabh International displays various kinds of toilets from 2500 BC to the modern date. The museum is constructed to promote the awareness of proper sanitation across the country and shed light on the global history of toilets and sanitation.
3. Improvise it
As it is rightly said that the change starts from within. To perfectly understand the crisis at hand, we need to start the change with ourselves first. You can start by posting a picture of your clean toilet to raise awareness of sanitation and World Toilet Day. Benefit from the power of hashtags and spread your message on social media platforms.
4. Time to take action
Educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, participate in every way to raise awareness. As a responsible citizen, you can take part in events and competitions like slogan making, poster making, wall art, etc. Several theatre groups create plays that boost public awareness. Suppose you want to collaborate and make changes globally. In that case, you can visit the official website of World Toilet Day, partake in international events, and connect to people globally who are fighting for the same cause.
How to Toilet Train Your Child
Toilet training is an essential part of parenting during the development of kids. Some kids learn to use toilets early, while some take time, which can be frustrating for parents.
We have some simple guidelines that can make potty training stress-free.
Plan a routine
Start the training when your child is old enough to sit. You don’t have to rush things. You can set them on the toilet after their meal and play with them until they do their business.
Look out for physical and facial signs
Children tend to show signs and make facial gestures that indicate that they are going to do their business.
The right equipment
Buying the right equipment, like a potty or a toilet training seat for your child is important. They should neither be small or big, but a right fit.
Communication
As your child starts to talk, you need to teach them the words associated with the toilet. Use hand gestures, bright facial expressions, and praises to teach them. Ask them now and then whether they want to visit the washroom or not.
Advanced skills
Now that your toddler can sit, walk, and talk, teach them some actions like how to pull down and pull up their underwear when they want to visit the toilet. Also, teach them about the regular use of flush and hand wash every time after using the bathroom.
Good Toilet Habits for Kids
Children are at a learning stage when toilet training. Since they are only learning new words and things, don’t hurry. They will learn at their pace.
Teach them the rules of toilet training when they are playing.
Practice hand-washing with them after very toilet use. Children learn by copying their parents. So, if you follow hygiene habits, they too will follow the same.
Teach them how to sit properly.
Clean the toilet facilities after every use.
World Toilet Day Facts
Around 297,000 children (more than 800 every day) under the age of five die yearly from diarrhoeal diseases because of poor hygiene, unsafe drinking water, and poor sanitation.
40% of the global population lives without basic hand-washing facilities like soap and water available at home.
Globally, 80% of the wastewater generated by human consumption flows back into the natural ecosystem without being treated or reused.
By 2050, there will be a crisis of water that up to 5.7 billion people could be residing in areas where water is scarce for at least one month a year.
For every dollar spent on water and sanitation, there is a $4.30 return in the form of lessened health care costs around the world.
People across the globe have access to more mobile phones than toilets.
Toilets have added up to twenty years to the human lifespan over the past 200 years.
Strong Quotes for World Toilet Day
“May your life be like toilet paper, long and useful.” - Anonymous
“You don’t know what you have until it’s gone. For example, toilet paper.” - Anonymous
“Don’t hurry, don’t worry. Do your best. An flush the rest. In the toilet!” - Anonymous
“This day reminds us of the fact of how important sanitation and hygiene is in our lives.” - Anonymous
“The lack of a proper supply of water, proper sanitation systems, and sewage systems are causing infections to an uncountable number of people and are creating a very unhealthy lifestyle for them.” - Anonymous
Sustainable sanitation is a concerning problem across the world. It is essential to employ safe sanitation practices in every household as it sheds light on the development of the country as a whole; because toilets are the way to avert several public health crises. As World Toilet Day approaches, we should make sure to communicate with people among us about the best practices of healthy hygiene.
Also Read:
Diarrhoea in Children
Potty Training for Girls Read more
Dr. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
6 hours ago
Q. Hii...., Is it safe to eat jackfruit in 4th month of pregnancy, daily 2 ...
Dr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
6 hours ago
A. dear mam, you can eat jackfruit during the 4th month of pregnancy. there is no problem in having it. you can eat all types of seasonal vegetables and fruits even green leafy vegetables.
shahin has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
5 hours ago
Q. is that positive result??? my Due date is tommoro I am having vomitting and nausea and back pain etc please reply asap
shahin
Mom of a 6 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. yes
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. Hi I'm in 23weeks pregnancy
my afi is 26 I have no diabetes or any other issues
is that risky ? what to do for making normal delivery possible
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
4 hours ago
A. yes AFI level is very high and yes you need to be very careful to have regular follow up with your doctor take the precautions advised by your doctor and regularly keep a watch on baby movements
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. nasal congestion during 9th week pregnancy is normal or something serious?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
4 hours ago
A. it's ok . take steam twice daily or you can use nasal drops
You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
2 hours ago
Q. Is there any issue with this test
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. You have not given any details about us to what test are you talking about or anything associated with that for that matter can you please repost your question with all the necessary details required to understand your question as accordingly I can assist you on that
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
30 mins ago
Q. my baby is 8years old and she wets bed can anyone suggest me what to do??
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
29 mins ago
A. normally bedwetting is very common during the night time and the child is able to tell you regarding urination during the daytime.
usually this problems improves with increasing age of the child and usually no medicines are given until and unless recommended by the doctor( you can easily wait for ten years of age of the child)
usually treatment of medicines (if started) gives only symptomatic relief and the problem goes away only with increasing age with the strengthening of the muscles of the bladder which control the urination.
steps
decrease the amount of water intake just before going to bed and make the child pass urinex before going to sleep.
also you can wake up the child at around 2 o'clock 3 o'clock and make the child pass urine.
never criticizex the child for this act because this will again aggravate the problem due to stress.
meet your doctor who will tell you more regarding this .
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