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15 Steps of Newborn Baby Care Immediately after Birth
The first 24 hours of a newborn baby are the most overwhelming. Your hormones are having a ride of their own, and your emotions are all over the place. Taking care of a tiny human that looks so fragile and beautiful is a big responsibility.
Video: Newborn Baby Care Immediately after Birth - 12 Important Steps to Follow
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Newborn Care Immediately After Birth
Immediate care of a newborn following delivery is a must. There are a lot of things that go into the care of the child when just born the breathing of the child, sleeping, baby's first breath and more. Here are some of the most immediate requirements that you need to take care of as soon as your baby is born.
Umbilical Cord Care
Through the nine months of your pregnancy, the umbilical cord was a lifeline that connected you to your baby, providing your loved one with all the oxygen and nourishment that was needed. Once the baby is all set to face the world, the umbilical cord is cut, as it isn't required anymore. Cutting the umbilical cord looks and sounds painful, but it isn't. You'll see that a stump of the umbilical cord remains in the navel of your child. This stump usually falls off anywhere between a week to a month. Once it falls, the belly button of the child might look sore - this takes a few more to heal. If you see traces of blood - calm down, it's normal. You might also see some yellow fluid, that’s normal too. As far as care for the umbilical cord is concerned, make sure you keep the area dry and clean at all times. Don't try to pull out or remove the stump off; it must fall off on its own.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding your child is a necessary, but challenging milestone; it can sometimes leave you frustrate, sore, and even angry. Your milk is the best, most nutritious food that you can give to your infant, and breastfeeding your child is great for your health as well. You can start breastfeeding your baby about an hour or two after birth. At first, you'll see that the milk is thick and yellowish - that's some extremely rich, healthy milk called colostrum. Filled with antioxidants and protein, colostrum is extremely beneficial for your baby. Make sure you have good back support and position yourself comfortably. Most mothers bring the breast to their baby - don't do that. Instead, bring the baby to your breasts, so that he or she knows how to attach. A lot of women suffer from cracked nipples and hardening of breasts, for which there are ointments available that can provide relief.
Baby's First Breath
Your baby, in the womb, didn't have to worry about breathing. However, post birth, the baby's lungs which were previously filled with fluid, are now filled with air. This sudden shift is bound to be difficult for a newborn baby, so the first few breaths of your infant are usually hard, laboured, shallow and irregular. This isn't a cause for concern as long as the baby's breathing steadies up and becomes normal.
A newborn baby's breathing is usually irregular. While this is not a cause for alarm, do monitor the baby; if you think the breathing is too noisy, consult a doctor.
APGAR Test
The APGAR test is the first test that the doctor will perform on your child to make sure that your baby is normal. APGAR stands for appearance, pulse, grimace, activity and respiration. All of this is tested, and the child is given a score accordingly. This score, which is called the APGAR score, will tell you if everything is normal with the child or if there is a cause for concern. A score of 7 and above is considered normal, a score of 4 to 6 is considered relatively low, while anything below 3 is claimed critically low.
If the doctor determines that the score is too low at the 5-minute mark, he/she may need to provide medical attention immediately.
Weighing Your Baby
Most newborns weigh between 2 kgs to 4 kgs. The weight of your child is an indicator of how your baby is doing, so it is imperative that you keep a tab on it. A newborn baby is bound to lose weight during the first week post birth, as a lot of body fluid is lost during this time. However, you will see an increase in the weight of your child after a week or so.
Adequate weight gain is important for a baby's physical and mental development. If you feel the required gain is not taking place, do consult a paediatrician and plan a diet which provides all the nutrients with which the baby needs to thrive.
Baby's First Poop
Your baby's first poop is called meconium. This looks very different from faeces, but that is completely normal. You baby, when in your womb, has ingested a lot of fluids, so the first few faecal discharges might look different. Give it a week or two, and you'll see that the baby's poop is relatively normal.
If you do not see meconium pass in 24 hours, it may be because of an intestinal obstruction, and you must consult a doctor immediately.
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact is very important for your child. Throughout the pregnancy, the baby is in the comfort of your womb, but all of a sudden during birth, this isn't the case, and this is why skin to skin contact is necessary. Your baby is placed naked, against your naked skin, and a blanket is wrapped around the both you and your child. You'll see the baby relax almost instantly. This also makes the baby familiar with you.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is administered to newborn to prevent any bleeding. Vitamin K helps in clotting of blood, so should there be any bleeding, Vitamin K can help clot this and prevent bleeding.
Eye Care
Your baby's eyes are extremely delicate and sensitive. Almost within an hour after birth, the doctor will put some eye drops to ensure that the baby's eyes are free from any infection. Make sure you keep the baby's eyes clean at all times. Use a damp cloth and some clean water to wipe your baby's eyes.
Hepatitis B Vaccination
Every vaccination is important for your child, so mark the dates and make sure you get your child vaccinated. The Hepatitis B vaccination is extremely important, as the disease is fatal.
Sleeping
Say goodbye to sleep after the birth of your newborn. You'll see that newborn babies never sleep when you want them to, and always sleep when you don't want them to. Most of the time, their sleeping cycle will leave you vexed and annoyed, but that is part of what motherhood is. Be patient; your child will sleep as and when he feels like it. If your child isn't getting enough sleep, your child is probably in distress. Check the diapers, and see if he is hungry. Swaddling the baby and ensuring the house is calm are ways of helping your little one sleep well.
Bathing
It is recommended that for the first week and a half, you give your child a sponge bath. Use a soft cloth and some warm water and wipe your baby clean. However, you can wash your baby's face, hands and genital area thoroughly with warm water, especially after a change of diapers.
The reason it is recommended that you wait for a week or so before bathing your baby is for the umbilical cord to dry. Once this has dried, it usually falls off. This is your cue to start giving your newborn baby a nice warm bath in a tub.
A lot of people bathe their babies on a daily basis, which is alright, but three days a week is more than enough as well. Keep in mind that your baby's skin is extremely sensitive, and it is prone to dryness. So, excessive bathing can dry the baby's skin.
Make sure the water is lukewarm, warm enough to soothe your baby, but cool enough not to burn. You can use a gentle soap that is mild enough, without the fear of causing an allergy or a negative reaction. You can ask your doctor for a recommendation on this one.
Make sure you keep an eye on your baby at all times, as your baby can slip in the bathtub. It is extremely easy for a baby to drown in a bathtub - less than sixty seconds is all it takes.
You don't have to wash your baby's hair every day; twice or thrice a week should suffice. Make sure you use a mild shampoo.
Physical Examination
Like APGAR, a physical examination after birth is necessary. The doctor will examine the child, to see if your baby is healthy.
Providing Warmth to Baby
Swaddling your baby is more important than you think. Keeping your baby warm helps in regulating the body temperature. A newborn child does not have as much fat as an adult or a grown-up kid has, and this is the case especially with premature kids as well as kids who are underweight. Make sure you wrap your child in warm clothes, especially if the climate in your area and the environment is cold. Wipe your child dry immediately after a bath, and make sure the baby is kept warm after this as well.
Circulatory & Physiological Respiratory Changes at Birth
While the baby is in the mother's womb, the respiratory, as well as the circulatory systems, operate in a way which is very different from the way they will function after birth. The baby is dependent on the umbilical cord for the supply of oxygen. Circulatory modification and respiratory gas exchange take place rapidly during the process of labour and birth so that the baby can breathe outside the womb, and the heart functions normally.
The doctor slaps the baby's bottom at birth to help clear the airways and encourage breathing. It is important to monitor the baby for 6 - 10 hours after birth, as several changes take place in the major organ systems in this period.
Motherhood is beautiful, but there is no denying the fact that it is tiresome, frustrating, and sometimes scary. Just give your baby all the love and care, and make sure you take good care of yourself too, and you are sure to have a memorable journey.
Also Read: How to Take Care of Newborn Twins
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Best Soil for Plants for Your Home Garden
If you love gardening and planting various kinds of plants in your lawn or garden, you absolutely must know about the types of soil that are best for your plants. In this article, we shall be discussing why it is important to choose the right soil, how you can choose it, and we shall also be discussing the various kinds of soil!
Importance of Soil for Plant Growth
Soil is the foundation on which various plants such as shrubs, grass, vegetables, fruits, trees, etc. grow. Soil not only holds the plants firmly on the ground, but also provides all the essential nutrients to the plants to grow and thrive. The health of the plant is directly related to the quality of the soil. Therefore, it is crucial and important to choose the right kind of soil for the plants that you wish to grow.
How to Choose the Best Soil for Your Plants?
Here are some ways in which you choose the best soil for your plants:
1. According to the Plant
The kind of soil you pick for your plant should be in accordance with the plant you wish to grow. For example, if you are planning on planting a vegetable garden then it is important that the soil you choose is moist and loose, which will provide the flexibility to the roots to expand and grow and get maximum nutrients from the soil.
2. According To Quality
Make sure you pay heed to the quality of the soil. The soil with too much clay or sand may not be ideal for the plants to grow. It just has to the ideal mix of soils for the plants to grow optimally. Make sure you identify the soil in your garden and then make alterations according to the type of plants you wish to grow.
3. According To The Place Of Planting
The type of soil you choose for your plants will also depend on where you plan to grow the plants. For example, big potted plants in your patio or large pots require more nutrient-rich soil than the plants that are planted in your lawn. The potting soil contains special components that prevent under-watering or over-watering in the plants. Make sure you invest in good quality soil as sometimes the cheaper options may not be able to provide ample nutrients to the soil.
4. Preparing The Soil
Once you have narrowed down on the soil according to the plant requirements, another important step in the process is to prepare the soil. It is important to determine the kind of soil that is available with you so that you can make required changes in it by adding organic material and other additives to make it ideal for growing various kinds of plants.
Types of Soil that You Must Select for Different Plant Requirements
Following are various kinds of soil that you should select as your plant requirements:
1. Sandy Soil
This kind of soil requires mulching for holding moisture in it and requires various kinds of organic blends to make it ideal for growing plants.
Features
This kind of soil usually gets washed away during heavy rains.
Often carry fewer nutrients for the plants because it warms up faster.
It is easier to cultivate this soil and it drains and dries out fast.
Suitable For
Vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, lettuce, zucchini, etc, blubs and shrubs such as Sun roses, Tulips, Hibiscus, etc. Grow well in this soil.
2. Clay Soil
This kind of soil is loaded with nutrients and if the drainage is taken care of, this soil can offer optimum benefits to the plants to grow.
Features
It is heavier to cultivate and gets warmed up slowly during the spring season.
This soil is poor at water-drainage and allows fewer air spaces.
This soil is hard and rocky when dry and gets sticky and lumpy when it is wet.
Suitable For
Ornamental plants and fruit trees usually grow well on this soil. Shrubs and perennials such as Aster, Helen’s flower, Flowering quince, etc thrive on this soil.
3. Peaty Soil
This soil is acidic in nature and thus when it is combined with organic matter, lime and compost; it offers umpteen benefits for the plants to grow.
Features
High amounts of peat lend spongy and damp qualities to this dark soil.
This soil offers fewer nutrients because the acidic nature of the soil slows the decomposition process.
This soil heats up easily and can retain water.
Suitable For
Vegetable plants such as legumes, salad crops, root crops, etc, shrubs such as Witch hazel, Lantern trees, Heather, etc.
4. Silty Soil
Organic matter is added to this soil to make it more fertile and for improving the drainage capacity of the soil.
Features
This offers great benefits to the plants if the drainage system is channelized properly.
This soil is comparatively easier to cultivate.
It tends to hold moisture and has a soapy and soft texture to it.
Suitable For
Almost all kinds of fruits and vegetable crops can thrive on this soil is the drainage is proper. Grasses, perennials, climbers, shrubs, etc grow well on this soil.
5. Loamy Soil
This soil is acidic in nature and thus requires regular mixing with organic matter. However, this soil is the best soil for potted plants or garden plants.
Features
This soil is a mix of silt, clay, and sand.
This soil can be easily cultivated and warms up easily but does not become too dry during summer months. This is an ideal soil for outdoor plants.
It is damp and fine-textured soil.
Suitable For
Almost all kinds of berry crops and vegetable crops grow in this soil. Bamboos, climbers, perennials, tubers, and shrubs such as Dog’s tooth violets, Wisteria, Rubus, etc grow nicely in this soil.
6. Chalky Soil
In order to improve and enhance the workability of this soil, hummus is added.
Features
This kind of soil in stonier and grainier than other soils.
This soil is usually found on a limestone or chalk bedrock.
The alkaline nature of this soil may sometimes lead to yellowish leaves or stunted growth of the plants.
Suitable For
Vegetables such as cabbage, sweet corn, spinach, beets, etc, Blubs, trees, shrubs such as Pinks, Lilac, Mock oranges, Weigala, Madonna Lillie, etc.
How to Create Your Own Potting Soil?
If you wish to accentuate the indoor beauty of your house by placing some potted plants and thinking that you can use the garden soil to pot the plants, well that is not a great idea, to begin with. This is because garden soil is not ideal for potted plants. You can procure readymade potting soil from the market or you can opt for the other two options if you do not wish to procure soil or loam for growing plants. The first option is sterilizing the outside oil or creating your own soil mix. Well, if you wish to learn how to prepare the soil for planting various kinds of plants or learn to make the best garden mix, the following are some steps that you need to take.
1. Sterilization of the Outside Soil
If you plan to use outside soil for indoor plants for potted plants, it is important that you sterilize it first. This is because it will not only help in getting rid of weeds and insects but it also makes the soil bacteria-free. It is very easy to sterilize the soil as all you need is a cookie sheet and an oven. Just take a cookie sheet and spread the soil nicely on it, which needs to be sterilized. Bake the soil in an oven at 180 degrees for approximately half an hour.
2. Creating Own Soil Mix
You can also make your own soil mix and the first and foremost step in that would be to sterilize the soil by baking it. Once the soil gets sterilized, you will be required to amend its composition by adding sand and peat moss. This is going to help you to maintain the quality of the soil that you wish to use for the plants.
What You Will Need
Here are some ingredients that you will be required while making the best soil for flowers, soil for growing vegetables or for growing other kinds of potted plants:
½ cubic yard perlite
½ cubic yard peat moss
5 pounds limestone
5 pounds blood meal
10 pounds bone meal
Procedure
Take all the ingredients in a large container and give a thorough mix.
Make sure you store the soil mix in an airtight container until it is required.
Gardening is a hobby that is not only therapeutic but also incredibly rewarding. We hope the above article helped you in understanding more about various kinds of soil for growing plants. Happy gardening!!
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Amazing Facts About Germany for Kids
The most populous country in Central Europe is Germany; it is also the second-most populous country in Europe where many immigrants live and study. Germany is famous for a lot of things, free-tuition colleges, along with great cultural diversity. However, do note that Germany has more interesting facts than you can ever imagine, many of which are listed here.
Germany History Facts
German history originated from the forests and then flourished into aristocracy and modern life, keeping German culture preserved. Let’s go through some of the historical facts about Germany:
Germany is officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany and consists of 16 states.
Germany achieved independent status in the year 1871 when the German Empire was declared. However, some historians argue that Germany became a modern country only in 1990 when East and West Germany were reunited.
The German nation in its present form came into being only in the 19th century, when Otto von Bismarck, who was a Prussian Prime Minister, brought together loads of German-speaking kingdoms, territories, free cities, districts, and dukedoms to create the German Empire in the year 1871.
This so-called empire became one of Europe’s foremost and influential powers and acquired colonies in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific.
The German empire, which was once the leading power of Europe, was dismantled after Germany’s defeat in World War I and the renunciation of Emperor William II. What followed the war was widespread unemployment, economic depression, and political strife. This, in turn, led to the fall of the progressive republic and the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party.
Germany has long been described not as a particular place but as the loose, fluid institution of Germanic-speaking people that held ground over western Europe for decades.
Once Adolf Hitler was bought down by the allied armies of the USA, the UK, the Soviet Union, France, and other countries, Germany was divided into four zones of occupation and then later into two separate countries: the German Democratic Republic (East Germany), and the Federal Republic of Germany (West Germany).
Geography of Germany Facts
Geographical facts are also interesting, providing insight into the land boundaries of the country. Here are a few geography facts about Germany:
Germany is located in Central Europe and stretches from the Alps, across the North European Plain to the Baltic Sea and the North Sea.
The Rhine River Germany is one of the major European rivers.
The northern third of Germany is located in the North European Plain, with a flat terrain crossed by northward-flowing watercourses (Ems, Elbe, Oder, Weser). Marshy conditions and wetlands are found close to the Frisian coast and also the Dutch border.
The south mainly consists of Central Germany and features a rough, patternless, mountainous, and hilly countryside formed by ancient volcanic activities. The Rhine valley passes through the western part of this area.
The central uplands continue north and east as far as the Saale and combine with the Ore Mountains at the border and the Czech Republic. The Upland regions comprise the Hunsrück, Eifel, and Palatine Forest at the west of the Rhine, the Taunus hills at the north of Frankfurt, the Rhön, the Vogelsberg massif, and the Thüringer Wald.
South of Berlin, which is the east-central part of the country, is like the low northern areas, with river wetlands and sandy soil. An example of this is the Spreewald region.
Germany shares borders with nine countries – Luxembourg, France, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Czech Republic, the Netherlands, and Poland.
Germany comprises the largest wooded area in the world in the southwest near the Swiss border. This area is called the Black Forest Germany - a mountainous region full of fir and pine trees.
The Black Forest comprises the source of the Danube, which is one of Europe’s longest rivers.
Several linear hills and mountain ranges define Southern Germany’s landforms. Examples of these are the Bavarian Forest along the border between Bavaria and the Czech Republic and the two adjacent ranges of the Franconian and Swabian Alb. It reaches roughly from the source of the Danube in the southwest of Baden-Württemberg, south of Stuttgart, across Swabia into Central Franconia and to the valley of the Main River.
The Alps that are present on the southern border are the highest mountains. However, a relatively little Alpine terrain is located within Germany (in Upper Bavaria and southeastern Swabia) compared to Austria and Switzerland. On the southwestern border with France, the Black Forest splits the Rhine from the headwaters of the Danube that is located on its eastern slopes.
Facts About Germany’s Population
Following are some interesting facts about Germany’s population:
The German population has achieved a brand-new record. In the year 2018, the population increased by almost 227,000 people, or 0.3 percent, based on the statement made by Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) in Wiesbaden. This, in fact, was the first time in history that more than 83 million people have ever lived in Germany.
The average population density is close to 230 people each square kilometer. However, the population distribution is quite uneven.
In former West Germany, the population density is close to 267 people per square kilometer, in comparison to 140 people per square kilometer in East Germany. The industrialized Ruhr Valley and Berlin are hugely populated, while much of the Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania areas and the Brandenburg in the East are sparsely populated.
About 61 percent of the German lives in towns with close to 2,000 to 100,000 inhabitants; 30%, in cities with more than 100,000 inhabitants; and the remaining, in villages with lesser than 2,000 inhabitants.
The population of Germany comprises 7.3 million foreigners, which includes 2 million Turks and several refugees who have migrated from the developing world. Many Turks also moved to Germany as guest workers during the period of economic boom observed in the 1950s.
Important Places And Attractions in Germany
While in Germany, there are various attractions and destinations that are a must-visit. Lets us go through some of the top favorite destinations in Germany:
Berlin: The most popular destination in Germany is Berlin - one of the most charming and attractive capitals in Europe.
Volkerschlachtdenkmal in Leipzig: Leipzig is a huge city in Saxony, and it is also home to one of the most significant monuments in Europe. The Monument of the Battle of the Nations or Volkerschlachtdenkmal was constructed to reminisce the Battle of Leipzig in the Napoleonic Wars.
Old Town Hall in Bamberg: Bamberg is a famous city in Bavaria, and it comprises a number of captivating architectural landmarks. However, the most famous monument is the Altes Rathaus, also known as the Old Town Hall.
Harz Mountains: These are some of the highest mountain ranges in Germany.
Aachen Cathedral: Present near the border with the Netherlands and Belgium, the Aachen Cathedral is, in fact, the oldest cathedral in Northern Europe.
Sylt: Sylt is one of the most famous islands, although its northern location does indicate that it is not as reachable for travelers as other German tourist attractions.
Germany Culture Facts
Germany has a beautiful culture. Let’s go through some of its unique facts:
English speakers refer to Germany as Germany; however, Germans themselves refer to Germany as Deutschland. Germany is known as the country of thinkers and poets.
The culture of Germany has been shaped and influenced throughout Germany’s rich history, once as a crucial part of The Holy Roman Empire and later on as one of the steadiest economies in the world.
Berlin is the capital of Germany, but Munich, Hamburg, and Cologne are also amongst the main cities of Germany.
Germans are punctual and hardworking, and that the rate of unemployment in Germany is indeed very low.
Christmas in Germany is a grand event and one of the most beautiful times to visit the country.
Germany Animal and Wildlife Facts
Germany is home to some of the best wildlife in the world. Here are some interesting facts on the animal and wildlife in Germany:
In the forests of Germany, one can find European wildcats, badgers, bats, lynxes, deer, red foxes, and red squirrels.
Germany’s native birds comprise the bean goose, boreal owl, carrion crow, and also the mistle thrush.
Perhaps the most famous of all the German celebrity animals are indeed the polar bear Knut.
So far, close to 28,000 fungi and plant species are present in Germany, amongst which close to 3,242 are flowering plants. Insects are, with 33,305 species, the largest group, roughly around 48,000 animal species that presently thrive in Germany.
The eagle is the emblem of the Federal Republic of Germany.
German Food Facts
German food is, most probably, the only way to get to know all about German culture. Some amazing German Food Facts are:
Germany has a diverse and rich food culture that changes from region to region.
German food is indeed very tasty. No one can complain about getting to know a culture and its people while enjoying eating Weißwurst Frühstück or a Spätzle.
One can tell the time of the year by just looking at what vegetables and fruits are available in supermarkets. From goose, asparagus, and strawberries to cookies, there is, in fact, a season for all things.
Germans are also really proud of their bread. They have a beautiful baking culture, and there are a lot of different variations of bread to select from.
One can also find that most German foods may be simple but are actually quite heavy and filling. They focus a lot on garden vegetables, meat, beer, and bread. These days, lighter versions of all of these foods are available, but the food is still quite filling.
Germans also eat quite early. Conventionally, the main meal of the day was lunchtime, with a light meal in the evening (though some Germans may argue that breakfast is the main meal, and the remaining meals of the day getting lighter).
Other Interesting Facts About Germany for Children
Some interesting German facts for children are:
Woodlands and forests still cover almost one-third of Germany.
Berlin has the biggest train station in Europe, and also this city is nine times larger than Paris and includes more bridges than Venice.
The first country in the world that adopted Daylight saving time – DST, also known as summer time was, in fact, Germany. This occurred in 1916, during World War 1.
German is the most famous third language throughout the world.
There are more football fan clubs in Germany than in any other place in the whole world.
Germany solar panels are the best in the world.
One of the facts about life in Germany during WW2 is that Germans did not really thrive at the time of Hitler’s rule as opposed to what we hear.
Germany is one of the best places to be and live at present. This country has been an important player through all the crucial stages of humankind’s history. With this article, we have helped you learn a lot more about Germany as a country.
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Occupational Therapy for Children
When a child grows up, he undergoes a lot of physical, mental, a sociological development that helps him navigate the real world and interact with others. The initial years are the crux of brain development since a lot of growth occurs during this time. Certain kids, unfortunately, do not reach these development stages as needed, and their maturity does not match the level of other kids of their same age. In such a dilemma, occupational therapy comes to their rescue.
What is Occupational Therapy (OT)?
Occupational therapy is a set of exercises, techniques and activities that assist children in developing the skills and forms required to start living their lives independently. Many kids need a lot of help with basic daily routines such as brushing teeth, wearing clothes, or schooling related activities such as noting down what’s written on the blackboard or making use of simple tools. Their motor responses and sensory nodes do not respond and process at the level as that of other children. This causes them to be slower, to make more mistakes than others, and can affect the child quite a lot.
With occupational therapy, your child will begin to carry out most of the activities by himself gradually over time.
When Does a Child Need OT?
You might wonder 'Does my child need occupational therapy to live his life?'. Some kids might bloom later than others and they may not require any therapy as such. However, there are certain cases when occupational therapy might be considered for a child:
Suffering from birth-related defects
Problems processing sensory receptions
Have faced injuries immediately after birth
Failing to learn new things easily
Having arthritis, bone-related disorders or so
Developmental disorders such as autism or behavioural issues
Has suffered extreme level burns
Kids suffering from cancer, palsy, or other debilitating illnesses
Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Kids
Introducing your kid to occupational therapy can have the following benefits.
1. Handling the Daily Routine of Life
Certain kids face issues in carrying out activities that are essential in the daily routine of life. These include brushing their teeth, going to the toilet, holding a pencil to write or draw something, wearing their own clothes, buttoning a shirt, and so on. These are activities kids should start doing by themselves independently. Occupational therapy helps them achieve that independence.
2. Resolving Issues of Sensory Perception and Processes
When children have issues with their sensory organs, they encounter trouble in seeing things correctly, finding sounds to be too quiet or too loud, not understanding touch, failing to recognize smells, having different taste perceptions and so on. These could result in an extreme behaviour at school or lethargy and apathy too. With occupational therapy, these kids can be taught to bring back control over their senses and assess them accordingly.
3. Bringing Better Movement Possibilities to Kids with Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a condition that pretty much restricts any physical movement, depending on the severity of the condition. Most kids also suffer from dystrophy in the muscles, rendering them unable to move and resorting to using a wheelchair. Since their lives revolve around it, occupational therapy helps them cultivate their activities by teaching them to use it properly, and make the necessary adjustments to turn it into an integral part of their life.
4. Helping Kids with Autism Communicate and Interact Better
Although kids suffering from Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) might be clubbed with autism, the problems both suffer are different. Autistic kids do show tendencies similar to that of kids with SPD but not vice versa. These kids have trouble conversing with people, do not engage in play, and stay aloof from any activities. Each child’s behaviour needs to be handled separately and occupational therapy for children with autism helps out a lot in that regard. By addressing only those problems that are necessary, it does not become a generalized solution and helps kids overcome their issues sooner.
5. Stabilising the Lives of Kids with Motor Skill Issues
Some children have issues with the muscles in their limbs as well as fingers or so. This can cause trouble while learning to walk, or ride a bicycle and so on. Occupational therapy works on this problems individually and either helps them adapt to it, or even remove the condition altogether.
6. Relearning What They Know Already for Kids with Injuries and Burns
These kids might have led normal lives right from the beginning until an incident rendered them unable to do so. For such kids, the problem is forgetting what they already knew and doing it differently. Occupational therapy helps them get perspective in understanding different ways of carrying out previously known activities and get good at it.
Difference Between Occupational & Physical Therapy
Occupational therapy for children with special needs and physical therapy for children with disabilities might seem like the same thing. However, physical therapy primarily focuses on reducing pain, improving physical movement and strength, and deals with limbs and joints. Occupational therapy includes that along with a focus on cognitive and perception skills, behavioural disorders, and relearning abilities.
Occupational Therapy Activities for Children
Here are some occupational therapy activities that are suggested for kids.
1. Activities that Improve Quality of Sleep
Certain children face trouble sleeping properly through the night. By making use of activities like pre-sleep baths, body massages, therapies involving connecting with sand and water, special objects that reduce the effect of sounds and lights, making use of certain smells to induce sleep, are all used in a combination to tackle the problem.
2. Activities that Help Integrate Various Senses
Children may face problem responding to all the stimulation and triggers of the environment. These can be combated by making use of techniques that create a deep calming pressure in the presence of the child. Even use of a bean bag creates a softness in the environment that immediately calms everything down. Making use of stress balls, chewy toys, soft blankets, is good occupational therapy for ADHD child, too.
3. Activities that Improve Limb Coordination
Some kids might not be able to judge their limb movements with eyes or fail to use a particular side. With hand-eye coordination activities, children are encouraged to use bats and balls to try and hit it successfully, or catch a ball by judging it well. For kids that cannot use either left or right side of the body in a decent manner, bilateral activities like rope pulling, dough kneading, using a rolling pin and so on can be quite helpful.
4. Activities that Help Improve Visual Perception
Many children have trouble perceiving shapes of three-dimensional spaces. This can be handled by making clay shaped objects and letting them examine it. Baking cakes in various alphabet shapes, using moulds to match them, can help further. Jigsaw puzzles of a simpler level can work wonders in that regard.
5. Activities that Build on Motor Skills
If a child has a problem using his hands or feet properly, many exercises are focused on twisting the wrists, bending the fingers, and so on. Special scissors can be used to help him cut paper properly. For movement related problems, undertaking supervised swimming, or balancing while walking on a thin platform, can be useful as well.
6. Activities that Encourage Cognitive Thinking
These kids need encouragement in trying out things in a different way. This could be attained by letting them paint something with a cloth instead of a brush, or flipping coins in a box from a distance, or undertaking craft related activities that help with visual as well as limb improvement skills.
Occupational therapy exercises for children are a dime a dozen. But their application needs a proper understanding of your child and his issues. Moreover, maintaining your kid’s self-esteem as he resolves these issues is extremely important and plays a vital role in turning him into a successful individual ahead. Read more
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10 True Romantic Love Stories By Real Moms
Everyone has a love story. Love leaves no one untouched! This Valentine's Day, we bring you 10 true love stories to read that will reaffirm your faith in the power of love!
We asked WOM Moms about their real life love stories. And guess what, everyone had one! Love has the uncanny ability of piercing through the thickest of souls and the strictest of settings. Our hearts are warmed reading these beautiful love stories of couples who are now happily married, many of them also parents.
Go grab a cup of coffee and snuggle up on your bed to read these amazing real life love stories of passion, longing, separation and finally, togetherness.
Most Beautiful Real Life Love Stories
1. Love At First Day
If you thought love at first sight happens only in the movies, prepare to be proved very wrong! Love can take you completely by surprise and happen even during one very special day.
2. That First Dance
“I asked you to wait. I thought you left me”. “No. I couldn’t leave you”.
Ballroom dances, old school courtship and chivalrous young men – find out how Sonia found them all very much relevant even in this age and time!
3. Blissfully Married
There are many who think romantic love is for the young and unmarried. But is love only about giving roses, chocolates or saying “I love you”? One incident gave Poonam all the answers and made her fall in love with her husband like she didn't know was even possible.
4. Two States All Over
College romances are for the silverscreen. Or are they? Shubhra had a love story that is a delicious and thoroughly enjoyable rehash of some of the best Bollywood campus capers!
5. To Those Who Love Animals
"Do you love animals?” How is that for an arranged-marriage conversation starter? Read Aliya's fantastic love story where turtles, birds and dogs had a big part to play.
6. Childhood Sweethearts
Growing up together to be best friends and eventually lovers – classic cinema material, right? Except it isn't. Sheetal's fairy-tale like romance of marrying her childhood companion is sure to make you go weak in the knees.
7. Love Marriage or Arranged?
This beautiful romance started in the Brahma Temple – just one in the whole world! We have no idea which category Varsha's marriage falls under – do you?
8. Cupid Candy
Rama travelled with her to-be-husband everyday in the same office transport – in complete silence. Check out how this glorious Candy played Cupid to bring Rama and her husband together.
9. Love Over Bhindi
The next time you look at your everyday bhindi sabji in distaste, let this love story where bhindi was one of the protagonists change your mind!
10. DDLJ In the Hospital
What on earth does DDLJ have to do with the hospital? Quite a lot for Joylene! This is one of those really cute love stories that's the stuff dreams are made of.
Read more
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ससुराल में पहला दिन और रस्मों की कुछ खट्टी-मीठी यादों का सफर
जी हाँ दोस्तों, आज बहुत दिनों के बाद इस मंच पर यह लेख लिख रही हूँ, आशा है आज आप अवश्य ही पसंद करेंगे ।
“शीर्षक पढ़कर ही मुझे एक परीक्षा का अहसास हुआ” और शायद शादी के बाद हर बहू के लिए एक परीक्षा से कम नहीं होता है।
मुझे लगता है कि वर्तमान में ज़माना बदल गया है और इस बदलते हुए ज़माने की सोच ने हर लड़के और लड़की को शादी से पूर्व मिलने, एक दूसरे से व्यक्तिगत रूप से बात करने की छूट देना शुरू कर दी है, जो काफी तारीफे काबिल है। यह वैसे देखा जाए, तो सही भी है, आखिरकार पति-पत्नी बनना ही है, साथ में जिंदगी बिताना ही है, "उम्रभर के लिए तो जी हाँ दोस्तों पहले से जब जान-पहचान रहेगी", तो नई-नवेली बहू को ससुराल में पहले दिन कदम रखते ही किसी भी प्रकार की झिझक नहीं होगी, "जैसे कि मुझे हुई थी"। मैं जब ससुराल आई थी, बहुत ही सहमी-सहमी सी आई थी और परिवार में सबका स्वभाव समझने में भी समय लग गया था। मैं ठहरी कामकाजी, तो घर और कार्यालय के बीच में तारतम्य बैठाना भी ज़रूरी था क्योंकि "सभी के सहयोग से ही तो ग्रहस्थी चलती है न"।
मन ही मन सोच रही थी कि अभी तो परम्परागत शादी की रस्मों से कहीं निजात पाई थी, कि ससुराल में आकर दूसरी रस्में शुरू हो गई थी। इन्ही रस्मों के दौरान एक रस्म होती है, जिसमें दुल्हा-दुल्हन को छलनी सिर के ऊपर रखकर नहलाया जाता है और फिर दूसरी रस्में होती हैं । मैं एकदम नई-नई इस घर में आई थी, ज़्यादा जानती नहीं थी किसी को और ना ही स्वभाव पहचानती थी । "सास-ससुर, शादी-शुदा ननंद, बीच वाले देवर-देवरानी और एक छोटा देवर, जिसकी शादी होनी थी, इन सबके बीच मेरे पति सबसे बड़े बेटे और मैं घर की बड़ी बहू"। ननंद से मेरी मुलाकात पहली बार होने के कारण बात करने में भी झिझक होती थी, ऊपर से उम्र और ओहदे में बड़ी थी।
आप यह सोच रहे होंगे कि मैं यह सब क्यों बता कर रही हूँ, क्योंकि हर नई-नवेली बहू अपने ससुराल में कदम रखते ही थोड़ी सहमी-सहमी ही रहती है और मन में संकोच रहता है कि अपना निर्वाह यहॉं हो पाएगा या नहीं, मेरा स्वभाव घर के सदस्य समझ पाएंगे या नहीं । "मेरा सोचना है कि हर बहू का हाल ऐसा ही होता होगा, जैसा कि मेरा हुआ था" । इन सब रस्मों के बीच आफत यह होती है कि अपनी पेटी में से ज़रूरत का सामान निकालकर देगा कौन भला? "इसलिए यदि शादी से पहले बहू की घर के सदस्यों से जान-पहचान रहे तो शायद यह परेशानी नहीं होगी" । वो तो "इनकी ममेरी बहन यानि मेरी ननंद से मेरी अच्छी पहचान हो गई थी" सो उसने मेरी ससुराल में काफी सहायता कर दी थी।
शादी के बाद हमारे यहाँ मायके और ससुराल में सत्यनारायण की पूजा बहुत ही अहम् मानी जाती है । जब ससुराल में पूजा संपन्न हुई, घर में पधारे हुए सभी मेहमानों को केले के पत्तल पर खाना परोसा गया, "साथ ही सास द्वारा मुझे भी आदेशित किया गया" कि मैं भी जो मीठे व्यंजन बने हैं, उन्हें घर आए मेहमानों को आग्रह के साथ परोसूं, तो साहब शुरू हो गई यहाँ से "शादी के बाद बड़ी बहू के नाम से मेरी जीवन-यात्रा" । एक बात यहाँ विशेष हुई कि मेरा शुरू से स्वभाव रहा है कि कहीं भी नई जगह पर जाती हूँ तो सब अच्छी तरह जाँच परख लेती हूँ, नौकरी जो करती थी तो आदत थी । मैने देखा नंदोई जी को पालक की सब्जी पर तेल की बघार पिसी लाल मिर्च डालकर ऊपर से डाली गई, फिर समझ में आया कि ससुराल में सभी तीखा-चटपटा खाना पसंद करते हैं । "मैने यह पहली बार ही देखा, फिर जब मायके में पूजा हुई और नंदोई जी की फरमाईश पर वही पालक की सब्जी मेरी मॉं ने बनवाई, तो खाना परोसते वक्त मैने अपने परीक्षण के अनुसार मॉं को चुपचाप ही बताया वही बघार बनाने के लिए और सब्जी पर परोसने के लिए तो सभी मेहमान मेरी तारीफ करने लगे कि आते ही बहू ने सब समझ लिया है, आपका घर-संसार अच्छा ही चलेगा । "वो दिन एक यादगार बन गया और आज भी सब याद करते हैंं "।
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
Manali K Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
33 mins ago
Q. Mera 8 month start hua white discharge normal h hona
Manali K Mehta
Mom of 2 children
32 mins ago
A. hi parent
I suggest you please consult with your gynecologist because physical examination is important for proper diagnosis and treatment
please maintain hygiene properly with Babyhug instant sanitizer
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
30 mins ago
Q. My baby is 2 months old now. She is suffering with very bad constipation. for a week she is not passing stool.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
29 mins ago
A. That’s completely only not worry about it even if your child doesn’t part with motion for another total 10 days basically then also it wouldn’t be a problem still if you see the child is discounted then in that case you should consult your doctor for some laxative
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Father due in 2 months
29 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert Sudden Back ache and abdominal side aches.. 8 th month first week.. What to do
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
17 mins ago
A. hi
you must visit your gynecologist
it is important
please don't sit or stand for long period
take support while sitting and place pillow between your legs while sleeping
prefer to sleep on your left side
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
23 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert .
hai mam , my wife 8 month 2days pregnancy, she have more leg pain'
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 mins ago
A. Sometimes leg pain can be commonly seen but if it is increasing or your wife is also facing any kind of a discharge your stomach hardness or pain coming and going then it can sometimes be assigned for an early labour or could be a false labour so better to check with your gynaecologist
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
20 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert Ma'am I am two months pregnant now....can I continue breastfeeding my 17 month old baby ?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
18 mins ago
A. No I’m afraid you’ll have to quit breastfeeding your child because it is not advisable to feed your child when you’re pregnant with the second child is not healthy for you neither for your coming child so you’ll have to skip and quit onto your breastfeeding
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
7 mins ago
Q. #asktheexpert is continuous urinary irritation is normal in summer during pregnency
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
6 mins ago
A. in this case it is important to rule out urinary tract infection for which urine report as well as urine culture needs to be done.
in the report if it is found that there is positive urine culture then dr gives antibiotics for around 14 days after which culture report is repeated to see if the infecdtion is gone.
kindly take plenty of fluids to drink to and maintain hygiene of the urinary area and contact your doctor for relevant examination and investigation
at the earliest d
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