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Saffron During Pregnancy: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & More
Pregnancy has the potential to transform your physical and mental well-being to a great extent. Saffron is great during pregnancy, as it promotes positive emotions and possesses certain medicinal qualities that help deal with the symptoms of pregnancy. Saffron helps cope with feelings of anxiety, stress and stomach pain and is often recommended to pregnant women for its many qualities. However, like most things, saffron too may pose problems if it is not taken in moderation. Read on to discover the benefits, uses, and side-effects of saffron during pregnancy.
What is Saffron?
Saffron is the dried stigma of the crocus sativus flower. It is a thread-like structure that contains pollen, located at the centre of the flower. The saffron plant bears four flowers, from which the styles and crimson-coloured stigmata are collected and dried. A single flower contributes only three strands of saffron, and it takes approximately 14,000 saffron strands to produce one pound of saffron. A lot of effort and labour goes into harvesting these saffron threads, thus, making it one of the most expensive spices in the world.
It is cultivated mostly in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, and in India, this flower is only grown in Jammu & Kashmir. This exotic spice is referred to by different names based on the languages used in India, like saffron, kesar, koung, zaffran or kumkumapoovu.
Saffron is regarded as ‘The Golden Spice’ because it not just adds a unique aroma and flavour to food but also aids in health issues like digestion by forming a protective coating in the digestive tract. The yellow-orange colour imparted to the food containing saffron is a result of the carotenoid pigment crocetin present in it.
It is used in many beauty treatment creams, as it has certain medicinal properties and soothing effects on the skin. It helps the skin regain radiance and glow and helps maintain an even texture. Also, because of its antioxidant properties, it effectively slows down the ageing process. A commonly believed myth is that consuming saffron during pregnancy helps the baby have a fairer complexion.
Is it Safe to Consume Saffron During Pregnancy?
Yes, consuming saffron in pregnancy is safe because it has numerous medicinal properties. It helps to relieve stress, aches and pains, mood swings, and pregnancy discomforts. However, saffron also has certain adverse effects if taken in large amounts. It can trigger contractions and cause premature delivery. Here are a few precautions to keep in mind when adding saffron to your diet:
• Consume saffron only at the onset of the fifth month of gestation, as the pregnancy is stable at this time, and the risk of endangering the baby due to premature contractions is reduced.
• Use only two to three (mention only 1-2) strands, at most, in any preparation, as excessive saffron may adversely affect your health.
• Saffron for pregnant women should be sourced only from a high-quality vendor to eliminate any risk of artificial colouring or impurities.
Benefits of Saffron For Pregnant Women
Saffron is essential and highly recommended during your pregnancy because of its medicinal nature. Its primary advantage is that it helps in digestion by forming a protective coating in the digestive tract. When consumed in moderation, the benefits of saffron during pregnancy include the following:
1. Reduces Mood Swings
Pregnancy triggers several hormonal changes in your body, and that has a profound effect on your feelings. You may go from being cranky at one moment to being impulsive or emotional in another. For such times, saffron can come to your rescue. It acts as an anti-depressant and boosts the blood flow to your brain. Consuming saffron results in the production of the hormone serotonin that elevates your mood. It also reduces the stress hormone, cortisol.
2. Manages Blood Pressure
A woman’s heart rate can speed up by 25% during pregnancy, causing fluctuations in blood pressure. Saffron possesses potassium and crocetin that help in lowering your blood pressure. This feature can be beneficial during pregnancy.
3. Calms Morning Sickness
Morning sickness often leaves you feeling dull and lethargic. Anecdotal evidence proves that saffron-infused tea often helps combat nausea and dizziness.
4. Aids In Digestion
Majority of women suffer from stomach aches during pregnancy. Digestion slows down during pregnancy and an expectant mother may require some stimulating agents to ease the process. Saffron is known to boost the blood flow to your digestive system, and thus, helps to enhance your metabolism. This, in turn, aids in better digestion. Saffron causes the formation of a protective coating in the digestive tract. This extra layer helps to soothe the gastrointestinal acidity and also lessens bloating.
5. Gets Rid of Cramps
A pregnant woman experiences cramps ranging from mild in the beginning to near severe before delivery. Throughout the pregnancy, the bones and muscles stretch and shift to accommodate the growing baby, and this can cause pains and cramps in the stomach and pelvic joints. Saffron is a natural painkiller. It relaxes the muscles, which helps to relieve stomach pain and soothe cramps.
6. Protects Against Heart Disease
Saffron has a magical property of protecting you against heart diseases. During pregnancy, women tend to consume more than the required amount of fatty foods to satisfy their increased appetite. This can have a detrimental effect on their cardiovascular system. The antioxidants, crocetin and potassium present in saffron help reduce triglyceride and cholesterol levels in your body.
7. Cures Respiratory Illness
Saffron possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help dilate the nasal airways. It also reduces the swelling and inflammation in the lungs. As a result, you can breathe clearly. Saffron can also aid pregnant women suffering from asthma by removing any blockage that is present in their lungs and trachea.
8. Reduces Hair-Fall
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy often result in increased hair fall. A widespread practice among many pregnant women is applying a paste of milk, saffron and liquorice to reduce hair fall. The antioxidants in saffron nourish the hair, making it stronger.
9. Aids in Better Sleep
As the pregnancy progresses, sleeping becomes a challenge, with the mother tossing and turning all night to comfortably accommodate the growing belly, deal with the effects of hormonal surges, and reduce the discomfort of stretching bones. All these factors together cause cramps, pain and discomfort. During such times, you can have saffron-infused milk. Saffron contains mild sedative properties that help promote sleep and enable you to feel relaxed. Drinking saffron with milk is known to improve your quality of sleep.
10. Heals Skin Problems
Many women claim that consuming saffron helps them fight common skin problems. These include pimple breakouts, melasma, and acne that arise during pregnancy. Saffron is a blood purifier, and an effective solution to skin problems caused by impurities in the blood.
11. Helps Avoid Congestion Due to Allergies
Often, your immune system is compromised during pregnancy. You become vulnerable to infections and allergies, as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Saffron helps in easing your cough, asthma, allergies and nasal congestion. Besides, applying a paste of saffron and sandalwood helps to bring down fever.
12. Helps Experience Movement of the Baby
As per ayurvedic scriptures, saffron tends to increase your body heat, causing a rise in your body temperature. This, in turn, results in the movement of the baby inside you. It's always a pleasure to feel your baby move in your womb.
When to Consume Saffron During Pregnancy
Saffron is believed to be an appetite booster and helps in digestion. Yet, it is advisable that you consult your ob-gyn and dietitian before consuming saffron during pregnancy.
It is recommended and considered safe to consume saffron during the second trimester, mostly from the fifth month onwards. Healthcare providers should instruct expecting mothers on when to consume saffron during pregnancy so that they consume it in the right amounts.
Eating saffron during pregnancy increases the body heat, which in turn raises the frequency of uterine contractions, so having it during the night time is ill-advised as your body will be running a lot of processes during this time.
Saffron is believed to induce contractions, and in extreme cases, may cause spontaneous miscarriage. Doctors recommended that a dose of not more than 1 strand per day, as any more than that may prove to be risky and affect your baby causing preterm labour or even miscarriage. Although it has high nutritional value, it is advisable to be aware of when to eat saffron during pregnancy to avoid any harm or adverse reaction.
How to Consume Saffron During Pregnancy?
You now know that saffron is safe to be used in pregnancy, but in a limited amount. It is important that expectant mothers are well informed about how to use saffron during pregnancy. Saffron is primarily consumed in two forms:
Soaked Saffron
This is the most common way of using saffron at home or by commercial cooks. The saffron threads are gently crushed and transferred into water, milk, or broth. It is left to infuse for about 10 to 15 minutes before being consumed or added to a recipe.
Crumbled Saffron
This form of saffron is best suitable for use in nutritious soups and salad dressings. You can crumble the saffron strands with your fingers and use them directly in different preparations.
Once you have prepared the saffron, the next step is to utilise them in dishes. If you’re wondering how to eat saffron during pregnancy, worry not, as there are plenty of ways to consume it. Saffron forms an important part of the Indian cuisine as it is used in dishes like kheer, lassi, biryani and many other traditional sweets. Here's how to use saffron during pregnancy:
Saffron With Milk
Calcium is a highly important mineral for the growth and development of your baby. On entering the fifth month of pregnancy, you may add saffron strands to your milk. Else, you may grind the almonds, pistachios and saffron strands and add the paste to your milk. You can drink the saffron milk in the morning.
Saffron in Rice Preparations/ Soup
Saffron may be added to soups and rice dishes to enhance the flavour. 1-2 strands will be sufficient to impart colour and flavour
Saffron With Water
You can simply put a strand of saffron in your glass of water and drink it. It will help in your digestion
Side Effects of Saffron
Saffron has massive benefits for pregnant women, but it comes with its share of side effects. Consumption of saffron in high doses can be hazardous for expectant mothers, as it leads to uterine contractions and can cause the following issues:
Miscarriage
Saffron tends to increase body heat and temperature, leading to increased uterine contractions. This can result in miscarriage during the early weeks of pregnancy. It is recommended that you start consuming saffron only in your second trimester, and after consulting your gynaecologist.
Hypersensitivity
In many cases, pregnant women complain of experiencing anxiety, dry mouth, nausea and headaches on having saffron. If you are facing such problems, it is best that you avoid saffron.
Vomiting
Saffron can also lead to vomiting in some women. Vomiting doesn't just make you feel miserable, but deprives you and your baby of essential nutrients. So, ensure that you do not have such an adverse reaction to saffron. If you do, you must avoid consuming it.
Saffron Poisoning
Saffron poisoning may occur when a person consumes high doses of saffron, that are equal to or more than 12g. This is characterised by yellowness of skin, eyes and mucus membranes, numbness, bloody diarrhoea, nose bleeds, bleeding lips and more.
Contractions
Increased intake of saffron stimulates the uterus, increasing the frequency of contractions. This can lead to premature labour.
• Dizziness
Owing to the sedative property of saffron, consuming it in higher doses can result in a feeling of dizziness.
• Allergies
Women who are sensitive to certain foods and have a history of being allergic to Olea, Lolium, Sasola plants are at risk of further allergies on eating saffron.
• Bleeding From Eyelids, Nose or Lips
Depending on the stage of pregnancy you are in, and your experience of allergies and saffron consumption, there are possibilities of complications like bleeding from the nose, lips or eyelids.
• Numbness
The high amount of saffron intake may also cause numbness in some women. Numbness is a tingling sensation in hands and feet and can occur in eyelids and lips too.
• Jaundice / Diarrhoea / Haemorrhaging
Taking in a large amount of saffron often causes toxic reactions in the body, resulting in conditions like jaundice, haemorrhage and diarrhoea.
• Blood in Urine or Stool
Discharge of blood in urine or stools can be a frightening sight for a pregnant woman. However, it could be a possible side effect of high saffron intake.
Other Things to Remember
Saffron is often sold in adulterated forms and can be harmful to pregnant women and their babies. It is important to get original saffron and only from trusted sources. Some precautions or things to remember for consuming saffron safely during pregnancy are:
Buy Packaged Saffron
Local shops may sell these saffron strands in loose form. But for precautionary measures during pregnancy, it is best to buy only the packaged ones.
Go Through the Label
Before buying the saffron, make it a point to check the expiry date of the packet and ensure that it is a certified brand.
Check for Originality
You can differentiate between pure and adulterated saffron by the colour itself. Pure saffron is crimson red and has a soft orange-red tip. Whereas, if you find the saffron completely crimson, it is most probably fake or adulterated.
Saffron Grades
Grading of saffron is done based on their colour. The highest graded saffron has the deepest tone and is the costliest. Also, the higher grade of saffron has the best aroma. You may enquire about the grade of saffron to select the best available one.
Artificial Colouring
Ensure that the saffron you buy does not possess any yellow or white threads. If it does, it means that the pack is an adulterated one, made up by mixing it with other parts of the flower.
Choose saffron strands over powder form
Buy fresh saffron strands rather than in powdered form, as they may lose their antioxidant properties to a certain extent on being powdered. Also, it becomes easier to check their genuineness. You may immerse a few saffron strands in warm water to check for authenticity. Original saffron takes about 10 to 15 minutes before its colour bleeds, whereas the fake ones bleed colour the moment you immerse them in any liquid or food.
Storing saffron properly is essential to maintain its nutritional properties for a longer time. You will certainly want to store the saffron in a way that it retains its properties because it is expensive. It needs to be stored in an airtight container in a cool place, hidden from sunlight. This helps the saffron to preserve its flavour for minimum of six months. You may wrap the saffron in foil to ensure further protection. It is best to keep this airtight container in the refrigerator. To prevent saffron from absorbing atmospheric moisture, you can add a ground sugar cube to it. You can use the saffron strands for up to a minimum three years if stored properly as described above.
Packed with multiple benefits, saffron is a beneficial addition to your pregnancy diet. Consulting a dietitian or doctor will help in determining the optimum quantity of consumption and guard against any side-effect. Give in to your love for saffron in moderation, and reap the benefits it has to offer! Read more
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Consuming Carrots in Pregnancy
If you’re pregnant, it’s obvious that you would wish to do everything in the right manner for the sake of your unborn baby’s health and well-being. The first and foremost thing you should pay heed to is your pregnancy diet and nutrition. If you are wondering whether including carrots in your daily pregnancy diet is a good option, then read the following article. We shall discuss the various benefits and risks of consuming carrots during pregnancy.
Nutritional Value of Carrot
Carrots are wondrous root vegetables that are loaded with various vital vitamins and minerals. The following table will acquaint you with the nutritional value of carrots.
Nutritional Value
Per 100 grams
Energy
41 kcal
Carbohydrates
9.58 g
Sugar
4.5 g
Protein
0.93 g
Fat
0.24 g
Fibre (dietary fibre)
2.8 g
Vitamin C
6 mg
Vitamin A
5 mg
Vitamin B-6
0.135 g
Vitamin K
13. 2 ug
Calcium
33 mg
Sodium
69 mg
Phosphorus
35 mg
Potassium
320 mg
Magnesium
12 mg
Copper
0.045 mg
Iron
0.30 mg
Zinc
0.24 mg
Manganese
0.143 mg
Selenium
0.1 ug
The above-mentioned values are approximate values present in 100 grams of carrots.
Benefits of Eating Carrots During Pregnancy
Carrots are a powerhouse of various vitamins and minerals. These root vegetables can be eaten both in raw and cooked form. Carrots have immense health benefits for you in your pregnancy.
1. Good For Eyesight
Being a rich source of Vitamin A, carrots are very good for your eye health during pregnancy. It not only takes care of your eyes and vision in pregnancy, but is also beneficial for foetal eye development.
2. Strengthens Immune System
Carrots contain good amounts of Vitamin C, which is extremely beneficial in strengthening your immune system. Immunity tends to become low during pregnancy and consuming carrots regularly helps in strengthening your immunity.
3. Helps In Foetal Development
Consumption of carrots is very effective for foetal growth and development because carrots contain ample amounts of calcium, which is very important for foetal bone and teeth formation. The calcium content in carrots is also good to keep the mother’s bones healthy.
4. Helps In Preventing Anaemia
Including carrots in your daily pregnancy diet may help in warding off anaemia in pregnancy. This is because carrots are not only rich in iron, but also contain Vitamin C, which helps in absorption of iron by the body.
5. Relieves Constipation
Constipation is one of the most common problems faced by pregnant women. Carrots have an adequate amount of fibre in them and consuming carrots on a regular basis may help you overcome your constipation woes. Carrots also help in keeping other digestive problems at bay.
6. Prevents Cramping During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women may experience cramping and muscle stiffness during pregnancy. Though these are very common pregnancy problems, they can be very uncomfortable. Carrots contain phosphorus in them, which aids proper muscle functioning in pregnancy and prevents any kind of cramping.
7. Effective in Managing Gestational Hypertension
Some would-be-mommies may experience gestational hypertension, which can lead to various complications in pregnancy. However, if carrots are consumed on a daily basis, then it may reduce the risk of gestational hypertension.
8. Helps in Formation of Foetal Bone and Cartilage
Carrots contain manganese in them, which is a vital mineral required for better bone and cartilage formation in your unborn baby. You can pep up your manganese intake by including carrot juice in your pregnancy diet.
9. Helps In Development Of Foetal Nervous System
The adequate amounts of Vitamin B and folic acid in carrots are beneficial for the development of your unborn baby’s nervous system and brain. Consuming carrots on a daily basis may also reduce your baby’s risk of having neural birth defects such as spina bifida.
10. Helps In Prevention Of Cancer
Carrots contain beta-carotene, which is beneficial in reducing the risk of cancer. Beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant for a pregnant woman and reduces the impact of free radicals in your body, thus, saving you and your baby from the potential threat of cancer.
There are many benefits of consuming carrots that you can enjoy during pregnancy, for yourself, as well as your baby’s health and well-being.
Tips to Consume Carrots in Pregnancy
If you are thinking how you can effectively add this miraculous root vegetable in your diet, we have some tips for you that may help you to know how to consume and add this vegetable in your diet:
Choose smaller carrots if you like a sweeter taste, else you can choose longer carrots, too.
You should choose fresh carrots for consumption, as they are not only crunchier, but taste better too. Break the tip of the carrot, and if it breaks easily, then it is fresh.
Carrot is a root vegetable, therefore, it is very important to wash it nicely to get rid of any traces of soil.
Ideally, you can scrape a carrot, but do not scrape the skin completely, as most of the vital nutrients are present in the skin.
Carrots are versatile vegetables, and thus, you can not only eat them raw or in a cooked form but also use them in pureed, shredded or chopped form to cook various kinds of dishes.
Risks of Having Carrots or Carrot Juice While Pregnant
Though eating raw carrots during pregnancy is considered safe, and does not pose any threat to you or your unborn baby, there are some risks associated with consuming carrots or carrot juice in pregnancy.
Let us discuss what may possibly go wrong:
The excessive amounts of beta-carotene in your system may prove to be fatal. If you eat more than required amounts of carrots during pregnancy then you may put yourself at the risk of having cancer.
Carrots are orange or red in colour, and thus, when you consume them in higher amounts your skin colour may turn pale or yellow. This is because carrots contain a substance called carotene and excessive amounts may cause a skin condition called carotenemia.
More than required amounts of Vitamin A may not be good for your baby’s health. When you consume high amounts of carrots, your body loads up on more Vitamin A than required, which can hamper or interfere with foetal growth and development.
Consumption of carrots may sometimes cause allergic reactions. It may lead to severe headaches, nausea, etc. You may need to exercise caution before adding carrots to your pregnancy diet.
If you are suffering from biliary tract infection in pregnancy, then it will be a good idea to keep from excessive consumption of carrots.
Drinking excessive amounts of carrot juice is also not good in pregnancy. Carrot juice in more than required amounts may cause headaches and lethargy.
Delicious Carrot Soup Recipe
This easy carrot soup is scrumptious, healthy, and perfect in the cold weather.
Ingredients:
garlic- 2 cloves (finely chopped)
ginger- 1-2 inches (finely chopped)
onion- 1 (finely sliced)
oil- 2 tbsp
carrots- 5 (chopped)
water- 2 cups
pepper- 1 tsp
salt- to taste
fresh cream- 1 tbsp
How to Cook:
Heat oil in a pressure cooker and add the ginger and garlic. Saute for two minutes.
Add the onion and further saute for a minute or until light brown.
Add the carrot and salt, top it up with water, and pressure cook for 4 whistles.
Wait for the pressure to release, open, and wait until completely cool.
Transfer only the cooked veggies to a blender, leaving out the water, and blend to a smooth paste.
Transfer the paste to a vessel on the stove top.
Add the remaining water from the pressure cooker, little by little, till you reach the consistency you desire.
Bring the soup to a boil and add the pepper.
Serve with a dash of fresh cream.
There is no denying the fact that carrots have immense health benefits for a pregnant woman but the probable risks cannot be undermined. If you plan to include carrots in your pregnancy diet, it is suggested that you consult your doctor about the same. Once your doctor approves and signals you to include it in your diet, you can go ahead and reap many health benefits of carrots in pregnancy. However, make sure you do not go overboard with its consumption, as it may cause various complications and side- effects.
Also Read: Eating Radish during Pregnancy Read more
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Should Parents Take Parenting Classes - Its Pros and Cons
I’m sure all you parents would agree with one thing: parenting is one of the most complex jobs and nowadays looking for a little help is accepted. To keep with the times, as parents, you’re always keen to try different techniques, classes and even methods to make communication seamless with your child.
What are Parenting Classes
Parenting classes are developed around how you can cope with your child’s development, different types of parenting and discipline styles, how to use effective communication with your child and how to deal with constantly changing feelings within you and your child as well. These classes provide you with the right resources and help to evolve and better your skills and educate you on different techniques to use at home when communicating with your child.
These classes cover a variety of topics to discuss and will give you parents valuable lessons and tips on how you can raise your children. Since there are different kinds of parenting classes depending on your situation. For example, in baby parenting classes, most of the subjects discussed revolve around basic baby care issues such as bathing, changing and breastfeeding your baby to emergency care and first aid.
Attending these classes often present you with the opportunity to learn basic parenting skills, how to use positive guidance with your child and also allow you to ask questions in a safe setting about raising your child. These classes are also a place to befriend parents who share similar parenting dilemmas.
Why Should Parents Take Parenting Classes
These days, parenting classes like to incorporate research, philosophy and existing experience knowledge to bring about a more holistic approach to parenting. This has proved to bring about substantial results, and we believe that there are benefits of taking parenting classes such as:
1. Utilizing the research for the best outcome
Parenting classes and workshops will help you stay updated on the different studies and research on different parenting methods; it’s outcomes, and how it could affect your relationship with your child. Scientific data on how your child is developing with the changing world can prove to be significant, especially when it comes to an understanding of your child’s psychology. Why not use it to better your parenting skills and avoid making errors.
2. Mastering the basics of parenting skills
If you’ve done your share of babysitting or handling a younger sibling, then basics such as changing diapers or feeding a baby are something you’ve mastered. But, if you’re lacking experience in taking care of a baby or a toddler, it can be overwhelming to even think about an infant that will be dependent on you. Parenting classes will help you overcome all those fears and anxiety of dealing with a child and develop the skills that will help you take care of your infant.
3. Understanding how to breastfeed
Breastfeeding isn’t an easy task, especially if you’ve never done it before. It’s considered to be the best bonding connection between the mother and child. It’s the best nutrition for your baby and a great way to lose the weight put on during pregnancy. You will get this and feel the confidence of handling your baby from a breastfeeding expert at a parenting class. New mommies, you don’t have to worry, be confused or get frustrated at the idea of breastfeeding anymore.
4. Prepped and ready for emergencies
Always be prepared for any emergency situations. As parents, the scariest thing can be if your child is choking or is having breathing issues. As a first-time mom, it is essential you know how to perform CPR on your baby or toddler. CPR classes for parents will help you deal with your child in a calm and composed manner if the situation ever occurs.
5. Create a new support system
If you’re new and young parents, it is likely that your network of friends might not have children on any insights on how to parent. It would be equally tricky for them to give you the support you would need as a new parent. Parenting classes will help you interact with parents just like you or even experienced parents to help you deal with any issues. This will build your confidence and help you relate to many situations and find solutions to them.
6. Build your confidence
Planning and prepping always help when you’re venturing out to take on big roles or responsibilities. That can be applied to when you become parents as well. Parenting classes will help you get ready to welcome your little one, and every step you need to take going forward. Making errors are part of the learning, but these classes will help minimize those and have a confident approach and a clear understanding of how to be a better parent for your child.
7. Choose the right parenting style for you
There are many well researched and developed parenting style promoted by psychologists and experts. The different style of parenting equips you to align a style that is perfect for you and your child. Depending on your beliefs and how you would like to raise your child, you can choose and work on the style best suited for you and your child.
8. Teamwork with your partner
It’s important for you and your partner to agree on how you both would like to raise your child. Parenting classes not only let you explore different parenting styles and methods but also discuss important questions on parenting techniques and methods. Communication is key, and these classes will help you unlock the many mysteries of the relationships.
9. Classes on managing your emotions
As a new parent, many things are new to you, and they can be overwhelming and frustrating. Your child might not always understand you and may not cooperate with you on many things, and this could drain you emotionally. Don’t worry! Parenting classes teach you how to deal with such situations and helps you get the hang of how to handle your child while keeping your stress levels down. This enables your child to grow up in a non-abusive and stress-free happy environment.
10. The art of discipline
The disciplined style you deem right for your child is a very personal choice. It has to align with what your beliefs and values are. Parenting classes will help you identify the methods you can implement in a positive manner so as to create and maintain a healthy relationship with your child. These choices will also instil a sense of confidence in your child rather than fear.
11. Vaccination education
Your views on vaccination don’t have to be the same as every other parent. It is important that as parents, you are well informed about vaccinations and its effects on your child. Some parents are all right with the standard vaccine schedules, and some avoid vaccines. Parenting classes can discuss the laws on the subject and even help you with the rules and requirements of the schools and child care centres near you.
12. Communicating with your child
Communication is key to any relationship! Communicating with your child is essential as they grow up. Parenting classes will focus a lot of different communication styles with your child that is best suited for different situations. It helps maintain a healthy, positive and happy relation between parents and kids. It also helps keep the line of communication open between you and child on all matters.
Types of Parenting Classes
The core of any parenting class is to establish a better relationship with your child through different methods. Irrespective of your family situation, your child’s age, these classes guide you to be more confident and help raise your child to be more productive and to spread positivity in the community.
If you’re worried that you may not find a class most suited to you and your situation, don’t worry. Every class is designed to guide you on the right path and will address every concern you have about parenting and your child through each stage in life. Here’s a little insight into the different classes you can choose from.
1. Soon-to-Be-Parents Classes
As you’re about to become new parents, you will have many questions, doubts and concerns regarding your child and parenting methods that you wish to implement, Right from childbirth classes, appropriate medical procedures, post-birth recovery methods, infant-care classes and safety classes. Should parents take parenting classes before having a child? Well, these classes will guides you through the nine months of pregnancy to when your baby is born and how to care for your child and for yourself.
2. Beginners and Baby Care Classes
Parents looking for expert advice on how to change diapers, feeding your baby, how to deal with your emotions and what methods to incorporate to support infant development, well, this is the class for you! That’s right, newborn parenting classes for folks looking to address all of this, you will be provided with expert advice on everything. Right from how to care for your child to what you can do to implement early cognitive development for your child.
3. Infant Development Classes
As your child grows, there are situations you as parents would love some insight on how to deal with. Tantrums, potty training or even the development of social skills are some of the issues your child will face as they grow up. There are classes that will help you tackle behavioural changes, psychological and physical development. These classes are not just for how to deal you’re your child, but also to help you condition yourself as your child grows up. These classes will help you deal with your child right up to to the teenage years. These classes aren’t just for mommies; there are parenting classes for dad’s that guide you with how you can contribute to your child’s upbringing as well.
4. Specific Requirement Classes
Parents, when we say that there are classes for all of your, we mean each and every one of you. If your child requires special attention, we have experts who will guide you in such a case. Classes are specially designed for parents whose children are gifted or have developmental or medical challenges. There are classes, support, strategies, and resources provided to parents who wish to co-parent after a split, going through with adoption or even fostering children. These classes, such as co-parenting classes, help in enforcing a positive approach for the children whose parents are going through a divorce. Keeping your child’s need as the primary concern is what these classes will help you deal with.
How to Find Good Parenting Classes
There are numerous parenting classes that are mushrooming across the country and it may be difficult given the choices are many. However, finding a good class is imperative as it can help in the long-term improvement of your child. Some of the things to look out for are:
Go for a demo class to see if the classes are interactive. Are you being involved and engaged by the faculty or are you made to listen to some boring lecture? Pick the class which prioritises engagement as the learning curve is faster.
Make sure you ask for the credentials of the instructor or trainer before enrolling. Are they adequately qualified or do they have enough experience? These are questions that need to be asked.
The parenting issues that you face may need not necessarily be covered by the classes that you opt for. Have a thorough look at the curriculum and proceed only if you feel that you and your child can significantly benefit from the class.
Disadvantages of Parenting Classes
There are always people telling how you should raise your child, but as parents, you are always faced with the dilemma of what should be done. Turning to parent classes may not always be your answer.
Do these classes actually help out parents facing difficulties in raising their children? Is it a recommended course of action that parents should rely on? Let’s look at what can happen if parenting classes are not made compulsory
There is no set method of raising children. Every family is different, and so are the situations in which the child grows up. Thus, one rule is not applicable across the board.
Parents are aware of what is good for their children and what is bad. Instinctively, every parent will always strive to do what to do their best and provide for their children.
Parents need to spend time with their children. Getting to know your children by talking and doing activities with them is always more wholesome than spending time at these classes.
It’s true that only you can understand your child. Experts will only know of the situations and analyse your child, but will never truly grasp your child’s state.
Parenting classes have cultivated a herd mentality. To follow something that is turning you and your child’s relationship into a business model is not worth it.
Parents, if you ever need help with any situation, there are relative, friends and even professional counsellors you can turn to. Reading a book on parenting is also helpful.
Parenting classes have its benefits but being made compulsory is not fair! Parents can learn some constructive methods they can implement, but not every family needs it!
One of the main issues why parents turn to these classes is because they feel they don’t’ get enough quality time with their children to implement any parenting methods, well the answer is right in front of you. Spend time talking with your child and engage in positive and healthy activities. Discuss issues with other parents or counsellors if you can’t seem to handle it, but it is important to communicate with your partner about what can be done.
Parenthood is definitely no game, and a child does not come with an instruction manual! It is a challenge, and you need to spend time on figuring it out.
Also Read: Bad Parenting Signs and How It Can Affect Your Child Read more
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Pooja Atul Dabholkar
Mom of a 1 yr 11 m old boy
6 mins ago
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Parenting an Overly Talkative Child - Tips to Deal With a Chatterbox
Children take a massive leap from being able to speak simple sentences when they are toddlers to having full-fledged conversations with you as they grow older and touch three or four years of age. This phase can be both daunting and exciting for parents. You might be bombarded with tough questions about life, yet, you will take pleasure in the fact that your child can express herself. However, sometimes, children do not know where to draw the line concerning communication, and they do not understand the concept of privacy. If you have an extremely talkative child, you will need to pay attention to what she says and help her correct it gradually.
What are the Pros and Cons of Having a Talkative Kid?
Having a talkative kid is not all bad. There are certain pros to it too.
Pros
Here are some of the advantages of having a talkative child:
They Can Communicate: You will not have to worry about what your child is thinking or feeling; she will tell you readily. This way, it is very easy for you to parent as you don’t have to assume or guess what your child is going through. She will be like an open book to you.
You Have Entertainment: There is never a dull day with a talkative child around. You can count on her to ask questions and bring up conversations to keep you engaged for the entire day. You’ll find plenty of creative imagination popping up during your conversations.
They’re Great Company: Rest assured, your child will be great company every single day at home or anywhere you go. You don’t even need to bear the burden of the conversation; it’ll all be dealt with single-handed by your little one.
They’re Opinionated: One major pro of being outspoken or talkative is that children learn, early on, how to voice out their opinions. Do you want to know how you really look in that dress? Ask your child – an honest answer is what you’ll get.
They’ll be Prepared for Success – With plenty of questions answers, interactive nature and plenty of engagement, talkative kids are bound to be more social and have better verbal communication. They tend to participate readily in activities and events, getting a head-start towards success.
Cons
Despite all the pros, a talkative child’s behaviour is not a piece of cake to handle at all times. It can really test your patience. Here are some cons of having a talkative child:
Silence is Sparse: If you’re craving a quiet moment in the house, it is unlikely that you’ll find it with a talkative child around. Chances are, you will be bombarded with questions that can kill every ounce of silence around. The only quiet moment you can find is when she is asleep.
You’ll be Fired with Questions: Children come up with the weirdest questions, and talkative kids, more so. You’ll have questions coming at you faster than you can register them, let alone answer them.
It’s Usually a One-Person Show: If you are hoping to get a few words in, sincerely, you may have to wait a long time for your chance. You are likely to get cut off quicker than you can get in the first syllable.
They’ll Hardly Listen: Your child is so engrossed in putting across her opinions that she will barely give a moment to listen to what you have to say and understand it. This can be a big problem, as she will not cultivate the habit of listening to people.
Random Chain of Thoughts: With a talkative child, no conversation gets completed. The train of thoughts will lead you in a direction that is dimensionally different from where you began.
How to Handle a Hyper-talkative Child
If you’ve ever had to worry about teacher’s complaining about your child’s talkativeness and wondering why my child talks too much in class, you’ll like these tips on how to deal with a child that talks a lot.
1. Don’t Cast Labels
Labelling your child talkative can be a serious blow to her self-esteem. Instead, appreciate her for who she is and be grateful that she is comfortable sharing her thoughts; because the alternative is not good anyway.
2. Give them the Chance to Talk
Give your child enough time every day to voice out what she has to say. Look into her eyes and have a conversation with her. She needs to know that it’s okay to talk. Do not inhibit her communication, as this may lead to issues later on.
3. Set Boundaries
Teach her that it is not okay to share everything. Certain things are private, certain places, like the library, for example, are out of bounds. This will help her pick up social cues, expressions and body languages of others. Set a signal in place that you can use when she picks up the wrong topic. You can also tell her if she’s unsure of what she can and cannot say, she is welcome to come and check with you.
4. The Quiet Game
To inculcate the habit of listening in your child, the quiet game is a great idea. In this game, the person who breaks the silence first loses. This will give her enough time to get used to the concept of staying quiet and listening to others.
5. Take a Time Out
It can be exhausting dealing with a hyper-talkative child, so, you are entitled to a time out. Listen to some music, make it a habit, read a book, or engage in some activity where your child is likely to join you.
Most talkative children can be handled well with similar methods to those mentioned above. On certain occasions, hyper talkativeness could also be due to medical conditions like Asperger’s Syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, etc. You can check with your doctor to rule out these possibilities.
Also Read:
Tips for Coping with a Hyperactive Child
Ways to Manage Your Child's Anger
Effective Tips to Handle Your Highly Sensitive Kid
Discipline Strategies to Manage Aggression in Children Read more
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Kunal Kemmu's Sweet Message for His Biker Baby Inaaya Is A+ Parenting!
Inaaya Naumi Kemmu, the daughter of actor duo Soha Ali Khan and Kunal Kemmu, is not a new face on the internet. She, along with her cousin Taimur Ali Khan are regular features on social media and we absolutely adore these two cuties of tinseltown. But this time, she is also giving us some major #bikergoals! Kunal Kemmu, Inaaya’s proud dad, took to Instagram to share a picture of him and his daughter sitting on a yellow bike, with the hashtag #bikerbaby. Inaaya can be seen sitting on the tank of the bike and is a sweet little sight to behold. Take a look at the cute picture for yourself.
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Doesn’t she look adorable sitting atop the bike in that grey frock and pink helmet? The dad-daughter duo share a beautiful bond, and their picture is just a(ww)dorable! But what we love more is the caption underneath the picture; Kunal Kemmu penned down some inspiring advice for his darling daughter - “Soon we shall ride together and soon you shall have your own. Let no one tell you what you can or can't do. Make your own road and make your own journey.”
Inaaya’s curiosity to try out new things can be seen in her beautiful eyes. Who knows, we may see her grow up to be an excellent biker someday!
Last year, Kunal shared a picture on his Instagram handle, where he was seen reading the morning newspaper with little Inaaya. Of course, the little tot was too young back then (and even now) to read or understand anything, but her parents sure know how to instil good habits in her from a young age.
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Babies learn by observing their surroundings but mostly by watching their parents. They also imitate their parents' actions and take their advice as the last word, especially when they’re really young and impressionable. If you want your children to reach heights and be happy in the future, the time to develop good habits in them and encourage them to follow the right path is now. Habits developed early on die hard and what we teach our children today, is what they will become tomorrow.
It is also essential that you instil a sense of independence and confidence in your children right from a young age. Your motivating words and the thought that you are always there for them can make your children face the world fearlessly. When kids know that they have got their parents’ support to follow the paths they’ve chosen for themselves, no words from outsiders can put them down. It’s the little things you teach your tots today that will make you an example of an excellent parent. And we know you must be doting parents to your children just like Soha and Kunal are!
Kunal Kemmu tied the knot with Soha Ali Khan in the year 2015 and they welcomed their baby girl in 2017. On the work front, he was last seen in Kalank, a multi-starrer movie directed by Abhishek Varman and produced by Karan Johar. His upcoming project includes Malang, a horror-romantic movie slated for release in 2020. In spite of his busy schedule, however, Kunal sure knows how to make time for his daughter. And we can’t stop gushing over the picture and the sweet caption he shared! Little Inaaya is sure to be a big success someday in whatever she chooses to do - her daddy has got her back after all! Read more
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Are You Ready for a New Perspective in Relationship Goals?
When we talk of parenthood, the role of a mother has always been given an edge over the role of a father. None of us can really deny the fact that mothers are the ones to devote more amounts of time and energy in raising a baby than the fathers too. Over the years there has been much written about how contradistinction a mother’s life changes after coming of the baby as compared to how it was before the baby. But, not many of us talk about how a father’s life changes after a baby come into the picture. So here’s a Husband and New Dad’s perspective on relationships.
How a Husband and New Dad Looks into This New Role
When we first planned on starting a family, we had a pretty clear picture that the baby was going to change the present dynamics of our marriage. But just when the romantic flirty messages changed into the grocery list, the intellectual chat changed into pee & poop talk and the birthday & anniversary reminders changed into vaccination reminders, I am still clueless. Nobody warned us about the plummeting our relationship had taken and the chaos the rest of out lives had follen into.
During the initial months everything seemed so exciting and gala, but soon after I found myself lamenting how our love for the baby had usurped our very own love story. Despite the fact that our happiness knew no bounds – she was happy and I was happy, but together our happy “we” times went missing from the picture.
And as determined as I was not to save our “us” for some day in the future, or pause our romance for tomorrow or even wait for the weekly off to hold a kiss for that matter, I also didn’t want to rush her into it either. I understood she needed time to recover & heal. But I also couldn’t shy away from the fact that her drive kept on taking a reverse gear whenever I tried to reconnect. I had been trying very badly to be the people who once met, married, fell in love and had a miraculous baby. But, our love story seemed to be lost somewhere underneath those soiled diapers and laundry piles.
How Sex and Intimacy Went Down the Drain
Who wouldn’t agree when I say that intimacy is like the glue in a marriage? So exactly how was I supposed to react if she chose sleep over sex? And even when, after a long, challenging day she tried to pry her tired and sleepy eyes open to tend to “us” because that might be our only chance during the entire day, I felt it was selfish of me to make her go through this. I did understand that “us” time would be the last thing on her mind with all the tiredness & exhaustion and over-touching from those tiny hands and feet climbing and clinging to her all day. And as much as I would hate to admit – it did feel like I was not wanted, I was not cared for, when all I had wanted was a sense of belongingness, even if the thought crossed my mind just for the millionth of a second.
How Reality Struck Hard
Did they tell you before having the baby that life will be more beautiful and lovely with the baby?
Reality check!
They sure forgot to tell you how different that love and life you probably imagined before having the baby could be when you are sleep-deprived parents to a highly active toddler. I knew beforehand, life couldn’t be the same and I was definitely geared up for this, but I so wanted more of her, I so wanted more of “us”. Reality struck me hard when one day, on hearing my wife calling, “Hey handsome” I jumped in all excited only to find that it was for the baby and not me (sigh)! He sure is my baby too and he’s handsome. But ouch! That hurt, and so much.
How I Started Looking at Our Relationship in a New Light
But amidst all that chaos we still tried to laugh while cooking or cleaning, appreciate each other, exchanged gifts, even when they didn’t seem to be enough. And just when I was beginning to think our relationship had lost its lustre, our marriage was far from being over, not even close. In all the drama going on in my life, I somehow missed seeing the bigger picture. This time around, she was the one to reach out. I’m glad I had the patience to wait and I didn’t rush her into it.
It was then I was able to witness how with each one of these challenging days passing by, we had been inching closer to each other gaining in trust, establishing mutual respect and building on faith. I had missed seeing how we kept fuelling on hope, en kindling belongingness and growing even deeper a love, all along the way, silently.
It just took me a little while to see how our relationship had metamorphosed and transformed into a more beautiful form, just as a butterfly does from a caterpillar, giving more meaning and depth to the relationship that we already had. Only my eyes were long clouded to realise how a whole new dimension of my psyche was born, as we lovers had morphed into something more. We were morphed into parents.
Our “us” today is definitely different than what it used to be, and not always a “good different,” but I love this life we’ve created and how we’ve grown as a family. And I have never been this sure how this phase of my life has shaped my personality and given me a deeper perspective on love and sacrifice.
Our relationship is definitely the most cherished aspects of my life, but the look of unconditional love that I see in those tiny eyes of my one-year-old who calls me “Papa“, and how my heart fills up with gratitude, love, and pride is beyond any word can describe and I wouldn’t change a thing about it.
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
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
5 hours ago
Q. Dr meri baby 12 month running hai uska weight 6 kg hai uska growth nahi ho pa Raha hai to kya kare or over active hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. ok see c. if the baby is not having proper height and weight it means that baby is having failure to thrive baby needs investigations like TSH and other related test to find out the reason
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby hai boy nd girl one month 8 days when I check eye and ear which month
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken jjand the expert will give you the proper answer .
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. is white discharge in 8th month normal?
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. hi
yes
but if it is too thick or clear like water,if there other symptoms like itching, irritation, redness,foul smell from vagina, please visit your gynecologist
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. My son is 5 months old is suffering from cough..what to do?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. give nasal saline drops every few hourly to the child in the nasal cavity.
try to prevent temperature variations around the child
you can go for indirect steam inhalation which will again help in decreasing both cough and cold
continue the regular diet of the child
if there is no improvement in few days then meet your doctoru
for fever and pain give paracetamol.u
anti-cold medicines at this age have got side effects so can be given only after medical consultation.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
2 hours ago
Q. hi. in Feb my period was last and I did pregnancy test in March its positive results but my belly is not being bigger
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Typically, your bump becomes noticeable during your second trimester. Between 16-20 weeks, your body will start showing your baby's growth. For some women, their bump may not be noticeable until the end of the second trimester and even into the third trimester. The second trimester starts in the fourth month.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
22 mins ago
Q. I am 7 weeks pregnant. Before pregnancy I used to take medicine named Cyra 20 mg for acidity. Now since the day when I got to know that I am pregnant I am not taking any medicine for acidity but daily I am suffering from it. After having breakfast it starts. I am not eating any spicy food , oily food etc. Please help on this
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
17 mins ago
A. Start having chilled milk directly from the refrigerator that usually helps a lot in reducing down acidity and anyways when you take so much of medicine in the body gets addicted to it to check with your doctor if you need to do anything or any other medication would be friendly in cases of emergency
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