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Constipation in Kids
Constipation is a condition that everyone has experiences at least once in their lifetime. A study conducted showed that as many as 1 in every 3 children in the United Kingdom has suffered from it. Unfortunately, there are many myths about it such as “it can cause death” or “it will make the body toxic”. The article will help you gain proper knowledge on the subject and hopefully put the falsehoods to rest.
What is Constipation?
Ever had the feeling where you go do your morning ritual only to find that the business is “unfinished”? When the body has a hard time removing the faeces from the system, it is termed constipation. During the digestive process, the colon absorbs water from the food passing through it. When the colon absorbs too much water due to the slow movement of the food, it turns hard making it difficult to pass it out.
Types of Constipation
Below are some of the classifications:
1. Acute constipation
Acute constipation can last for a couple of days without any long-term implications. This could be a result of medication, dehydration or poor bowel habits.
2. Chronic Constipation
Chronic constipation can last for more than a month at a time. It is often a symptom of an underlying health condition. This could range from an underactive thyroid, diabetes or even emotional problems like anxiety or depression.
3. Idiopathic Constipation
This terminology is used when doctors are unable to accurately pinpoint the cause of chronic constipation. Some of the prime suspects include poor muscle contractions of the colon or reduced sensitivity of the nerves near the bowels.
4. Pseudo-Obstruction
This happens when the muscular contractions in the intestines become inefficient. It is named as pseudo-obstruction as it mimics the symptoms of a physical obstruction even though none exists.
Causes of Child Constipation
Here are some of the common causes:
1. Formula Food
Babies that are on a formula diet may be allergic to ingredients in the formula such as cow’s milk. One can change the brand, shift to soy milk or switch to breastfeeding for a better bowel movement.
2. Anxiety
Some children can be anxious about using public bathrooms or going to the bathroom in a new place. This causes them to hold out when it makes sense for them to go and eventually lead to the hardening of stool.
3. Poor Fibre Consumption
Insoluble fibre helps the food move through the digestive system with ease, and low fibre in your child’s diet can lead to a difficult bowel movement.
4. Flawed Potty Training Approach
Some children can be difficult to deal with when it comes to potty training. If the approach used is too harsh, the child may withhold their bowel movement in an act of defiance. Consistent behaviour like this would make the act involuntary, and they may develop constipation as a result.
5. Dehydration
Children who play for long hours and refuse to drink water have very little water in their bodies. When the intestines absorb what little water there is in the digestive tract, it causes the stool to harden.
6. Haemorrhoids
Some children withhold their bowel movement to avoid the pain caused by a haemorrhoid. Others end up scratching the itchy surface of the haemorrhoid which can lead to scarring. This leads to the narrowing of the rectal cavity.
7. Solid Food
Infants who have switched from breastmilk to solid food can get constipated at times. This happens as some common baby foods often contain rice cereals which have poor fibre content. This can easily be rectified by giving some fibre-rich foods such as apricots, apples or pears.
8. Iron Supplements
Children are often given iron supplements to combat anaemia. Unfortunately, iron helps in the growth of “bad” bacteria present in the gut at the expense of the “good” bacteria present. This can cause a host of issues such as constipation and other forms of intestinal distress. The remedy to this is increasing the intake of Vitamin C in the diet of your children to help them absorb the iron efficiently.
Signs and Symptoms of Constipation in Children
While one symptom alone does not guarantee that your child has constipation, multiple symptoms are a good indicator that your child may suffer from it. These include:
Infrequent bowel movement
Strained bowel movement
Blood in stool caused due to tears on the anal surface
Refusal to eat
Obsession to go to the toilet without success in bowel movement
Marked reduction in going to the bathroom due to fear of pain
Your child feels as though his/her bowels are still full
Pain in the abdomen
Your child complains of a blockage inside their tummy
Stool that is hard and small
Bloated feeling in the stomach
Pain in the rectum while applying pressure due to tears and scarring
Diagnosis
Firstly, the doctor will find out about the medical history of your child. This will help the doctor verify if your child is suffering from constipation. Secondly, the doctor will do a physical examination where he/she will try to determine the extent of the problem.
Finally, some doctors will also run some diagnostic tests depending on the severity of the condition.
1. Colonoscopy
A camera is inserted into the rectum and used to do a full inspection of the colon.
2. Blood Test
This may be used if your doctor suspects that the constipation is due to anaemia or hypothyroidism.
3. Balloon Expulsion Test
This test is used to test the ability of your rectum to remove stool from your child’s body. A balloon is inserted by a medical professional with 150 ml of water or less and your child will be asked to go to the washroom. A timer is used to see how long it takes to be removed from the system.
4. Defecography
An X-ray will be taken of the region around the anus and rectum.
5. Colonic Transit
Some gastroenterologists use technology to track the intestinal muscular activity. Your child may be asked to swallow a small device with a camera to track how your food passes through the intestine.
Risk Factors
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Also known as IBS, it is a chronic disease that affects the large intestine. When the muscles of the intestinal walls are weak, they are unable to contract efficiently which slows the food passage.
2. Inactivity
Studies have shown that physical activity helps in bowel movement. Children who have a sedentary lifestyle have a stronger likelihood of suffering from constipation.
3. Change in the Environment
Sometimes children are unable to have a proper bowel movement as they are unfamiliar with the environment. This can cause children to withhold their bowel movement.
4. Hirschsprung’s Disease
Some newborns do not have the requisite nerve cells for making the muscles contract in the intestines causing the failure of bowel movement.
5. Premature Babies
Premature babies do not have fully developed digestive systems and have a higher likelihood of having digestive problems.
6. Cystic Fibrosis
It is a genetic disease that is life-threatening, affecting the lungs and digestive system. Studies have shown that the low-fat absorption by the intestines leads to constipation in children with cystic fibrosis.
Complications
1. Anal Fissures
Prolonged straining can lead to tears along the rectal cavity known as anal fissures. They may cause pain or bleeding in some instances but normally heal by themselves in a few weeks.
2. Haemorrhoids
They are inflamed veins that exist near the anal cavity. Constipation often aggravates it as it applies pressure to these veins and results in itching, burning sensation and sometimes bleeding.
3. Rectal Prolapse
Chronic constipation would lead to straining of the bowels for proper evacuation. Sustained straining over a few years can lead to the rectum protruding out of the anus.
4. Faecal Impaction
Hardening of the stool sometimes lead to it getting stuck and prevents it from getting evacuated from the bowels.
Treatment
1. Lubricants
As the stool is already hardened, it becomes difficult for it to pass through the anus. Consuming coconut oil and olive oil do a great job in lubricating the surface of the stool for an easy bowel movement.
2. Stimulants
One of the causes of constipation is the slow movement of the food leading to excess absorption of water. Stimulants help in increasing the pace of the muscle contractions within the intestines to help speed up the process.
3. Therapy
Also known as biofeedback training, the focus of the therapy is to optimize your pelvic muscles on when to contract and relax while passing stool.
4. Surgery
In very severe cases, part of the colon may be removed. The shorter length of the colon would reduce the chances of constipation.
Home Remedies
Below are some tips that you can use to help alleviate your child’s condition with the help of readily available items such as:
1. Drinking Water
As constipation is primarily caused due to the dryness of stool, adequate water would help in the prevention of stool hardening.
2. Laxatives
Many over the counter laxatives are available that help increase the frequency of passing stool. However, they are best for mild cases, and severe cases should always be shown to the doctor.
3. Fruit Juice
Studies have shown that a substance called sorbitol, found in apple and pear juice helps to alleviate constipation.
4. Probiotics
Though further research needs to be done, one study suggested that probiotics helped increase bowel movement as well as soften stools.
5. Stool Softeners
Stool softeners reduce the water absorption capacity of the intestines making the stool soft enough to pass through the rectum.
6. Massage
A non-invasive technique, massaging different areas of the colon helps strengthen the walls of the colon as well as loosens up the stool.
Prevention Tips
Prevention is always better than cure and the below three are the golden rules when it comes to preventing constipation. If these three rules are followed in letter and spirit, your child is unlikely to have problems in the future.
1. High-fibre Diet
You can increase the amount of dietary fibre in your child’s food as it helps in easy bowel movement. Bananas, apples, mashed potatoes, etc. are some of the foods that can be incorporated into your child’s diet.
2. Good Toilet Habits
When your child goes to the toilet frequently, the chances of constipation reduce as it lowers the chance of your child holding it in. You can devise a routine where your child would have to go to the toilet when they get up or at a pre-decided time during the day. Over time, their body will learn the routine and they will not hold in their poop even if they are in a different environment.
3. Regular Exercise
Along with a fibre-rich diet and good toilet habits, an active child keeps the digestive system active. Even if your child doesn’t play sports, a simple 30-minute stroll in the park every day can help.
Diet of Kids to Prevent Constipation
Diet is critical when it comes having a healthy digestive system and nothing says it better than fibres. Fibre is divided into two types: soluble and insoluble fibres. Soluble fibres have a host of health benefits such as maintaining a healthy blood pressure. Sources of soluble fibre include carrots and oatmeal. Insoluble fibres do not have much nutritional value but help in improve bowel movement. Sources of insoluble fibres include corn, beets and green beans. Though fibres are good, overloading your child with fibre too quickly may lead to digestive issues such as bloating. The best approach is to increase the fibre content of their diet in a restrained manner.
All foods that slow down digestion can be either avoided or minimised. This mainly includes protein and fat-rich foods such as dairy products, junk food, frozen food and fried food.
Dietary Foods
Fibre Content
Amount
Green Peas
4.4 Grams
½ Cup
Baked Sweet Potato
3.3 Grams
½ Cup
Green Beans
1.5 Grams
½ Cup
Mashed Potato
1.6 Grams
½ Cup
Unpeeled Apple
3.6 Grams
1 whole fruit
Banana
3.1 Grams
1 whole fruit
When Should You Call the Doctor?
In most cases, constipation will clear up on its own by following the treatments given above. However, there may be some cases where a doctor’s intervention may be needed for your child.
1. Blood in Stool
This is a sign that there has been a tear in the rectal walls and is often painful. While there is no need to panic, going to the doctor will help as they would be able to chalk out a good recovery plan.
2. Black Stool
Provided that your child isn’t eating too much chocolate or has had iron supplements, black stool can be an indicator of internal bleeding.
3. Prolonged Constipation
If your child is suffering from constipation for more than a month, the home remedies may not be enough to bring relief. One common mistake that is made is giving laxative in such situations. The stool is already hardened and is likely to cause tears if this approach is taken. Many doctors would give a combination of stool softeners and laxatives to remedy the situation.
4. Anaemic
Children who are anaemic often require iron supplements to increase the iron in their blood. Unfortunately, the most common side effect of these supplements is constipation. Stopping the medication would not be advisable and a doctor would best be able to tell how to handle the situation.
5. Unintentional Weight Loss
This could be an indicator of a serious disease such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or Chron’s disease.
6. Abdominal Pain
Unbearable pain in the abdomen would affect the productivity of your child and destroy their mental peace of mind. Constipation in children can often be confused with serious diseases such as intestinal obstruction.
7. Leakage of Stool
This is one of the symptoms of faecal impaction. The stool in such conditions has solidified and the doctor would need to manually break the stool to remove the blockage.
Constipation can have a profound impact on a child’s psyche and can often make them feel anxious. Parents often make the situation worse by getting worried themselves making the child’s anxiety worse. Though some of the complications mentioned above sound scary, constipation is relatively easy to tackle. Even when the condition is chronic in nature, a good diet can help your child have a normal childhood.
Also Read: Baby Digestive Problems Read more
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Essential Diwali Safety Tips for Your Kids
Diwali is one of the most widely celebrated festivals of our nation. This festival of lights is full of vibrance and brings fun and togetherness. Diwali was an exciting time when we were kids, and it’s the same for our little ones too! Sweets, new clothes, and delightful crackers make this festival worth waiting for throughout the year – but only if you stay safe!
On the flip side, Diwali is also the time when many fire accidents and injuries occur. Though it is a holiday for most people, fire departments and hospitals are on constant alert on Diwali. A safe and happy Diwali doesn’t seem like a big deal, but every Diwali brings a fresh crop of cases involving burn injuries and freak accidents. Hence, it is necessary for parents to take safety precautions during Diwali and follow them religiously.
Video: Important Tips to Keep Children Safe During Diwali
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJZyatVATcA
Safety Tips for Diwali Celebrations
The most common cause of accidents during Diwali is the mishandling of fireworks. Parents need to know the nuances of fireworks safety for children to have a happy and safe Diwali. For instance, you should know what type of fireworks are suitable for your child’s age. Never allow young children to handle fireworks without close adult supervision. Even the most innocent sparklers and flowerpots can cause serious injury if basic safety measures during Diwali are ignored. A fun-filled Diwalicelebration boils down to a few simple ‘Dos and Donts’. Here are some safe Diwali tips for you and your family.
Dos
Buy fireworks only from a government licensed shop.
Always keep the fireworks in a closed safety box.
Store crackers away from sources of fire.
Keep crackers away from toddlers and babies.
Follow the instructions written on the crackers box and follow all the safety precautions.
Burst crackers only in open spaces, like playgrounds and fields.
While lighting ‘rockets’, ensure that they face upward and do not face an open window, door or road.
Light the crackers from an arm’s length distance and not any closer.
Discard the used crackers in a bucket of water.
Always keep buckets of water and blankets ready in case of an accident.
Keep a first aid kit handy when bursting firecrackers to treat minor injuries at home.
Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby to ensure safety during Diwali.
Make sure that kids are wearing appropriate footwear while lighting fireworks.
Park your vehicles in garages.
Make your kids wear light and fitting cotton clothes while bursting crackers.
Don’ts
Don’t burn fireworks and crackers in crowded places, narrow lanes, near sources of ignition or inside the house.
Don’t let your kids burst crackers in your absence.
Don’t keep fireworks in pockets or bags.
Do not examine crackers that were lit but did not burst. Let it go and light a new one.
Don’t light crackers while holding them in your hands. Always keep a safe distance from the cracker while lighting. Exercise daredevilry in more secure and productive activities.
Avoid loose clothes as they can catch fire quickly. Do not wear clothes made of silk and synthetic material.
Do not keep lit diyas or candles near curtains or inflammable materials.
Do not light multiple firecrackers at once as it can lead to an accident.
Do not use matches or lighters to light up the crackers.
Do not experiment with firecrackers or make your own crackers.
Do not burst crackers on roads as it can cause accidents.
Do not give your younger children crackers that can explode, instead let them light sparklers and other gentler and safer fireworks.
With a few safety tips for Diwali celebrations, you and your kid can have a ball of a time during this year’s festivities. Ensure a happy time with a few precautionary measures. Or better still, you can also consider going for an eco-friendly Diwali with no crackers, to teach your kids that the festive season can be fun and environment-friendly too!
Also Read:
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Diwali Craft Ideas for Kids Read more
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15 Easy and Yummy Pasta Recipes for Kids
Pasta is one of the most popular dishes that kids love to eat because of its softness, different shapes and for the fact that it can be cooked in many different ways but still retains most of its original tasty flavour. If you have a kid who is generally very fussy about his food, then finding the right dish can be quite a challenge. However, give the pasta a try and you might find yourself depending on it to save your life whenever you’ve run out of ideas at home.
There are cuisines all around the world that incorporate different flavours and their own twist to pasta. Based on how you want your kid to have it, you can change the style and spice of the pasta. Always ensure that the pasta is well cooked however before you serve it. This can be done by boiling it in hot water till they are tender but firm. Ensure that you do not overcook it also because it becomes very soft.
Simple and Healthy Pasta Recipes for Children
There are many kid-friendly pasta salad recipes along with other styles that are available for moms and cooks all over the world. Keep trying out different recipes till you’re able to find one that suits your kid. Pasta also has a very small amount of fat and minerals such as protein, fibre and vitamins amongst others. Here are a few pasta recipes for kids to enjoy:
1. Alfredo Veg Pasta
This classic recipe of pasta can be both delicious and simple to prepare and make for a wonderful meal for your kids.
Ingredients
8 ounces of Pasta penne
8 ounces of frozen and/or canned peas
½ grated parmesan cheese grated
Trimmed Fresh asparagus, (1 pound)
Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
Pepper and salt
How to Make
Get a pan or deep utensil and boil the water before adding the asparagus.
Boil for a couple of minutes, before removing the peas along with the asparagus and set it aside.
Let the pasta cook in boiling water for around 8 or 10 minutes.
Add the peas and pasta along with the asparagus into the bowl.
Once done, add parmesan cheese, salt, olive oil and pepper and toss it around.
Serve warm.
2. Roasted Vegetable Pasta
If you want your kids to gorge on some vegetables, this pasta recipe is the best way to get them into their diet.
Ingredients
1 halved plum tomato
1 pack of rotini pasta
3/4th cup pesto sauce
1 bell pepper (green)
1 diced zucchini
1sliced onion
Pepper and salt
Olive oil (3 tablespoons)
How to Make
Pre-heat an oven to 375 F
Spread the veggies – tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini and onions on a baking sheet
Roast the vegetables for about 30 minutes in the oven and cook till they are a little soft before setting them aside.
Boil the rotini pasta to cook it. Drain and set it aside.
Mix the roasted veggies, rotini, olive oil and sauce along with the pasta and you have an easy vegetarian pasta recipe on your hands.
3. Pasta Mexicano
A twist to pasta with some delicious salsa can leave your kids asking for more.
Ingredients
Seashell pasta (1/2 pound)
Salsa cup (1/4)
2 onions along with a green bell pepper, chopped
Olive oil (2 tbsp)
1 can of black beans and 1 cup of corn kernels
Tomatoes (1 can), diced and peeled
Black olives (1/4 cup)
5 tbsp of taco mix
Pepper and salt
How to Make
Cook pasta till it is soft but still firm. Drain it and set it aside.
Heat the oil in a skillet and add onions till they're brown in colour.
Put in the tomatoes, olives, corn, black beans, taco seasoning, salsa along with the salt and pepper.
Put in the pasta that is cooked along with the sauce inside a bowl.
Stir toss the vegetables and serve!
4. Three Cheese Bake Pasta
This recipe is overflowing with cheese and can be a treat for kids who love a little cheese indulgence once in a while.
Ingredients
Raw pasta (1 pound)
Beef (1 pound, grounded)
6 oz each of Provolone and mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
1 chopped onion
1 ½ cups of sour cream
6 ½ cups pasta sauce
How to Make
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F
Bring the water to a boil and add pasta and cook for ten minutes
Add the onions and ground beef in a skillet and saute the meat until it becomes brown.
Stir the pasta sauce in and cook on low-medium heat for 15 minutes.
Take a baking dish and grease it. Then, add the ingredients in the following order, half of the pasta, provolone cheese, sour cream, half of the pasta sauce, the other half of the pasta, mozzarella, pasta sauce mix remainder, parmesan cheese (grated) for the topping.
Bake this for 30 minutes in an oven. Serve hot.
5. Pumpkin Pasta Bake
This pumpkin pasta recipe is just what you need to get your kids to love the vegetable.
Ingredients
Uncooked pasta (300g, uncooked)
Butternut pumpkin (500g, small cubes)
4 eschalots, chopped and peeled
Olive oil (1 tbsp)
Butter (20g)
Fresh thyme leaves (1 tbsp)
Garlic clove (1, crushed)
¾ cup chicken stock
Grated mozzarella cheese (2/3 cup)
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
Light cream (300 ml)
How to Make
Cook the pasta in boiling water and drain 3/4th of the water and set it aside
Heat oil in a skillet along with butter over medium heat. Then, add the eschalots and stir-fry for like two minutes.
Add the pumpkin, thyme and garlic and stir it for like six minutes. After this, add the chicken stock
Let it simmer for 3 minutes and add the salt, cream and pepper. Cook it for three more minutes and take it off.
Mix the pasta, half parmesan, half mozzarella and sauce mix and add it to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese and cover it with a foil
Bake it for 30 minutes and remove the foil before baking again for 15 mins and garnishing it with thyme.
Serve hot.
6. Italian Sausage with Penne Pasta
This Italian recipe can introduce your kid to pasta just the way it is supposed to be eaten.
Ingredients
Penne pasta (1 pound)
8 oz. Italian sausage
1 lb of broccoli florets
2 tbsp. of minced garlic, olive oil and butter
½ cup of grilled pecorino romance cheese
How to Make
Boil the water and pasta for around ten minutes
Heat oil in a skillet and add garlic, broccoli florets, and sausage to it. Saute for about 15 minutes till they are soft an brown
Add pasta, butter, sauce and toss all of this in a bowl
7. Carbonara Spaghetti
Carbonara is a favourite among many. Make this recipe for your kids and they will love it too.
Ingredients
Spaghetti (14 oz., 1 pack)
Cubed guacamole (5 oz.)
1 egg, 3 egg yolks
Pecorino Romano cheese (3/4th cup)
Salt and pepper
How to Make
Cook the pasta for 12 minutes and let the boiling water drain. After this, set it aside for a while
Stir cook the guacamole for around five to 10 minutes in a skillet till it is crispy
Whisk the eggs and egg yolks together before adding the cheese, salt, pepper and whisk again
Stir the guacamole in and mix well.
Add the pasta and toss the mix to complete one of the most popular Italian pasta recipes.
8. Salsa Salad Pasta
This colourful recipe uses rainbow pasta and is best for little ones who are fussy eaters.
Ingredients
Rainbow pasta (2 cups)
Tomatoes (2, diced)
1 onion, red bell pepper, chopped cilantro ¼ cup
Black olives
Diced green chillies
1 ½ teaspoon of garlic salt
1 tbsp of sugar
1 tbsp. chilli powder
1/3 cup of lemon juice and white vinegar
½ cup of vegetable oil.
How to Make
Boil the pasta for around nine minutes
Combine bell pepper, chopped onions, tomatoes, olives and green chillies in a bowl.
Whisk the lemon juice, white vinegar, cilantro, garlic, sugar, salt, chilli powder and vegetable oil.
Mix both the vegetables and pasta and then toss the cilantro and lemon dressing before serving.
9. Mushroom Mint Pasta Salad
An unusual but delicious pasta recipe that can make your kids fall in love with their food.
Ingredients
Bow-tie pasta (16 oz)
Button mushrooms (8 oz)
Fresh mint (10 sprigs)
Slice onions (4 pieces)
Olive oil (1/4 cup)
Cream (1 quart)
Sugar (1 ½ teaspoons)
Salt and ground black pepper for taste
How to Make
Cook the pasta for about ten minutes in boiling water and leave it. Make sure that it is tender but firm
Drain the pasta and move it to a large bowl and add three tbsp. of olive oil and toss it in.
Heat the rest of the olive oil on medium heat on a skillet and add the mushrooms and onions. Once they’re light brown in colour, stir the heavy cream in.
Add mint and cook for five minutes. Keep stirring it
Mix sugar in the sauce and add the salt and pepper before stirring in the pasta till it is fully coated.
Serve hot
10. Shrimp Alfredo Fettuccine
A great combination of shrimp and pasta for the seafood loving kids.
Ingredients
Cooked shrimp (1 pound)
Fettuccine pasta (1 pound)
4 garlic cloves, peeled
Half-in-half (1 cup)
Butter (1 tbsp)
1 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
6 tbsp. parmesan cheese, grated
Salt
How to Make
Cook the pasta for about ten minutes in boiling water
Add butter in a skillet and let it melt before adding the garlic, shrimp and cook for a minute
Stir in half-and-half, sprinkle in the parmesan around one spoon at a time and continue stirring as you’re adding it.
Mix parsley and salt, before continuing to stir until it becomes thick.
Combine the pasta sauce and serve hot.
11. Chicken Cajun Pasta
This recipe gives you a taste of the goodness of the Cajun seasoning and a packed flavour.
Ingredients
2 boneless chicken breast half piece, thinly sliced and no skin
Linguine pasta (4 oz)
Butter (2 tbsp.)
Heavy cream (1 ½ cups)
Dried basil, salt, lemon pepper (1/4 tsp.)
Cajun dressing (2 tsp.)
Red bell pepper (1/2, chopped)
Green bell pepper (1 piece)
4 mushrooms that are sliced
Minced green onion
Ground black pepper, garlic powder (1/8 tsp)
Parmesan cheese (2 tbsp)
How to Make
Put in the pasta and cook for about ten minutes with boiling water
Toss in the chicken in along with Cajun seasoning together in a small bowl
Add some butter to help saute the chicken on a medium heat in a skillet till it isn’t pink in colour
Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, green onions and let it cook for three minutes till they’re semi-soft
Put in some heavy cream, season it with black pepper, garlic powder, salt and lemon pepper.
Keep it on for less than a minute before you mix the linguine pasta and the creamy sauce in a large pan.
Garnish with the help of parmesan cheese and serve this classic chicken pasta recipe.
12. Sesame Chicken Pasta
A simple pasta recipe with chicken that will be loved by kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Cooked chicken breasts, 3 cups shredded
Bow-tie pasta, 1 pack
Sesame seeds (1/4 cup)
Vegetable oil, sesame oil (1/2 cup)
Rice vinegar and light soy sauce (1/2 cup)
Sugar (3 tbsp.)
Ginger and Ground pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Chopped onion and fresh cilantro (1/3 cup)
How to Make
Roast the sesame seeds on medium flame on a skillet and wait till they turn light brown. Set them aside and let cool before cooking the pasta
Mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, vinegar, pepper powder, ginger powder, sugar, and sesame seeds. Put them in a jar and shake well
Pour the sesame seed dressing over the pasta by placing it in a bowl
Toss the mix and serve hot.
13. Greek Orzo Pasta
This delicious Greek recipe can be just what you need to take your pasta cooking to the next level.
Ingredients
1 ½ cup of orzo pasta
Broccoli florets (1 pound, washed)
Pine nuts (3 tbsp.)
Olive oil (1/4 cup)
Feta cheese (3/4 cup)
Ripe olives (1 can)
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
Dried red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp.)
Fresh basil (1/4 cup)
How to Cook
Cook the orzo as is instructed
Cook the broccoli with boiling water till it is tender but still firm
Heat oil and then add pine nuts in a skillet and stir-fry for around 2-3 minutes. Then, add the red pepper and cook for one more minute
Mix the pine nuts, pasta, feta cheese, and the other ingredients in a bowl before tossing it to mix
Serve it immediately.
14. Peas and Salmon Pasta
Do your kids love fish? Here’s a recipe that can do justice to all the fish lovers out there.
Ingredients
5 cups of farfalle pasta
Salmon (7.5 oz, diced into cubes and drained)
Vegetable oil (1 tsp)
1 2/3 cups of milk
1 tsp of Dijon mustard
Green onions (2, chopped)
Garlic cloves (2, minced and crushed)
Frozen peas (1 cup)
Cream low-fat cheese (1/2 cup)
Parsley, cornstarch and lemon juice (2 tbsp.)
Pepper and salt
How to Make
Boil the pasta in water and wait till it is firm but tender
Heat the oil along with garlic and onion in a saucepan for two minutes
Pour in the milk and heat till it is very hot
Mix cornstarch into two tbsp. of water and whisk it. Now, stir it with the milk and let cook for around two minutes
Let the sauce thicken before you add the cheese, parsley lemon juice, peas, dill weed, pepper and salt along with the mustard and stir till the cheese melts
Add pasta and mix well before stirring in salmon and letting it settle.
Set it aside for a minute before serving it hot.
15. Indian Masala Pasta
This recipe combines Indian spices with pasta for a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients
Penne pasta or macaroni (2 cups)
Olive oil (2 tbsp)
½ cup cumin or jeera
Garlic cloves (2-3)
Onion (1 large)
Carrots (2, chopped)
¼ to ½ cup green peas
¾ to 1 cup chopped or pureed tomatoes
½ tsp. red chilli powder
½ tsp. garam masala or pav bhaji masala
½ cup kasuri methi
Cream
How to Make
Bring 6 cups of water to a boil in a large pot and add the salt and pasta
Once cooked, take it off the pot and drain out the excess water and rinse it with cold water
Heat the oil in a separate pan add cumin till it splutters
Fry them till the aroma appears and onions and fry till they’re brown
Add the chopped vegetables and cook for two minutes
Mash the tomatoes and add it to the pan
Cook until the tomatoes are soft and the raw smell disappears
Add the kasuri methi, red chilli and masala powders
Stir them well and let fry for a minute before turning off the flame
Add the cooked pasta and whatever oil is remaining before adding salt and coriander leaves
Serve the pasta hot. This is a type of Indian pasta recipe for kids which is simple and very easy to make.
Thus, serving kids pasta is always a good idea because there are so many different recipes with which you can play. Pasta is very versatile because it can be cooked as both a gravy and dry and you can add all kinds of sides to it, including vegetables, chicken and seafood.
Add a lot of colourful veggies into the pasta and watch as your kids devour it with much enthusiasm. Keep trying different recipes till you’re able to land one that suits your child’s palate.
Also Read:
Bread Recipes for Child
Egg Recipes for Babies and Kids Read more
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Top 8 Online Jobs For Stay-At-Home-Moms You Can Do Sitting Right Next to Your Baby!
So you took a break to have a baby and want to get back to work now? Well, it can be challenging. There are lot of things that are different now – you may have lowered energy levels,you may be required by your baby round the clock, and you may also not have a fall-back option if you were to leave your house for long hours. But why should that stop you from having a career?
Here are 8 online work at home jobs for moms you can consider that allow you to stay at home with your baby and yet have a lucrative career. (Just make sure you have a good internet connection!)
1. Writing/Blogging
Being a mom gives you a new, fresh perspective on life. It makes you aware of new strengths and qualities in your person.Why not share your experiences with the world? All you need to write is decent grammar skills, and conviction.
2. Editing/Proofreading/Fact-checking
This is the perfect job for you if you like reading. Editing and proofreading both require a keen eye, and a very close attention to detail.Fact-checking requires mad research skills! So if you have the knack of observation and noticing things real fast, this is going to be a very satisfying job for you.
3. Translations
The average educated Indian knows three languages – their mother-tongue, Hindi, and English. This is an asset that most of us fail to realise.This also opens doors to a very lucrative career – translations. If you know a foreign language too – such as German, French, Japanese, etc. - your chances improve further.You can even take a course in these foreign languages, and start a career in translations afresh.
4. Web Development
Can you guess the total number of websites that exist on the World Wide Web? Over a billion... and counting!Every business now has an online presence. This is a lucrative opportunity you can tap into.
5. Graphics
Anyone who is good with images can find it easy to find work – you can make graphics for company magazines, school books, learning material, political campaigns, films, animations, etc.Graphics is also something that is creative – there will be very little monotony in the job.
6. SEO Analyst
SEO – search engine optimisation – is a collection of methods to improve a websites visibility on a search engine like Bing, Yahoo, Google, etc.This is important because – the better visibility a site has, the more people will land on it, and the more revenue it will make.This is an interesting career option for anyone who likes to be challenged – it is a highly dynamic field.
7. Counselling
Have people told you through your life that you are good at something? That you have a knack for something?Pay heed to their advice, and you can start counselling people in your field of expertise.From finance, to marketing, to marriage, to relationships – people seek counselling to deal with different aspects of their life.
8. Advertising
Advertising is a field that will never die – so long as there are people, they will need to buy things; and so long as they do,we will need advertisements! Another highly creative and dynamic field you can consider. Read more
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8 Interesting (and Weird!) Christmas Traditions Followed Around the World
When we think of Christmas, the image that comes to mind is probably right out of a Hollywood movie - there’s the grandly decked-up tree, the snow-blanketed roads, red and green colours adorning everything in sight, presents, winter-wear, and most of all, happy faces! Watching enough of Hollywood (and regional movies shot in Western countries) can lead you to picture a white and snowy Christmas, but we all know that it’s a far cry from the different ways we celebrate the festival here, in India. And that goes for a lot of countries around the world as well, where the traditions will make you wonder if we’re talking about Christmas at all! Here are some unique Christmas traditions around the world.
8 Unique Christmas Traditions From Around the World
Some seemingly normal, some downright strange, and some with no sign of anything remotely “Christmas” - check out these unique, and some weird, Christmas traditions.
1. Great Britain - A Kiss Under the Mistletoe
Hanging mistletoe indoors and stealing a kiss under the bough was a tradition practised by British servants, way back in the 18th century. It was considered to be bad luck if a kiss was refused under the mistletoe. The tradition has stuck around ever since and has made its way into popular culture as well.
2. Japan - A Fried Chicken Meal
Christmas in Japan means bucket-loads of KFC meals - which is weird, considering how chicken has almost nothing to do with the festival. But what this does mean for KFC in Japan is plenty of business - people book their buckets months in advance so that they don’t miss out last minute!
3. Sweden - Goat Burning
No, people don’t troop around and set fire to herds of goats, but the actual custom isn’t far from strange either. The Gavle Goat is erected every year in central Gavle in Sweden,at the beginning of Advent. A wooden skeleton is covered entirely by straw and the shape is that of a traditional Swedish Yule Goat. The practice that has now become commonplace is that arson attacks are carried out to burn the goat down! The goat was first erected in 1966, and since then, has been burned down or damaged at least 37 times. There’s nothing legal about this either, as suspects have been arrested and punished with huge fines. So, no, it’s not like the accepted custom of burning a huge effigy of Raavan during Dusshera!
4. Ukraine - The Christmas Spider
Quite a strange Christmas tradition, an Eastern European folktale is the reason why ornaments shaped like spider-webs are now placed on Christmas trees primarily in Ukraine. According to legend, a poor widow and her children cared for a pine tree that grew in their garden, all year long, in the hope that they’d have a Christmas tree when the festival rolled around. However, they all went to bed sad on Christmas Eve when they realised they couldn’t afford to decorate it. The next morning, though, the tree was covered in cobwebs; when the first rays of sunlight touched these cobwebs, they turned into gold and silver. Legend has it that the family never experienced poverty after that Christmas. Who knew a dreaded creepy-crawly could bring people such joy!
5. Yugoslavia - Demanding Gifts as Ransom
A Serbian tradition you may not want your child to know of, gifts are given in exchange for getting untied! That’s right - on the three Sundays leading up to Christmas Day, members of the family take turns to gift each other. Kids give gifts on the first holiday which is called Djetinjci, married women do so on Materice, the second holiday, and married men, on Oci, the third holiday. The tradition basically involves kids tying up the legs of the parents, then dancing around them chanting and asking what they would give to be untied. The parents pretend to be surprised then give gifts to be freed. On Djetinjci, kids are tied up by adults and they give gifts that have been pre-arranged. Materice is celebrated with much joy out of all three for some reason; kids sure seem to get a kick out of binding their mothers’ legs with a belt or rope or scarf, then demanding gifts to let them go free!
6. Norway - Hiding Brooms from the ‘Witch’
One of the Christmas traditions here involve hiding broomsticks inside the house so that wicked witches won’t steal them for a midnight ride!
7. Czech Republic - Santa Claus isn’t the Gift-giver
Kids don’t look forward to Santa’s visits here; instead, they eagerly await the presents brought to them by Baby Jesus on Christmas Eve and St. Mikulas at the beginning of December. Parents ring a bell in the room where the tree is kept, indicating that Baby Jesus has dropped off the presents and that the kids can enter the room. St. Mikulas doesn’t dress up in the traditional red Santa suit, but rather in white clothing, much like a Bishop. Oh well, as long as they get the gifts right, we wouldn’t mind a special appearance by someone other than Santa either!
8. Venezuela - Roller Skating to Mass
Usually between the 16th and 24th of December every year, roads in Venezuela are closed to vehicles and are host to a flurry of people rollerskating their way to Christmas mass! In fact, some kids go to sleep after tying a piece of thread on their big toe and dangling their foot outside their window; passersby rollerskating the next day pull on these strings to wake the kids up, so that they can witness the spectacle! Now that’s a fun (and eco-friendly) start to the occasion, don’t you think?
9. Germany- German Pickle
This is probably one of the weirder International Christmas traditions. In Germany, a pickle is usually hidden somewhere on the tree, once the tree has been completely decorated. On Christmas morning, the kids search for the pickle, and the one who finds it first gets a special gift. The adult who spots it first is said to have good luck.
10. Iceland- Icelandic Yule Cat
Looking for a reason to go shopping? Wait for it. In Iceland, all those who finished all their Christmas cleaning and decorating chores on time would receive new clothes to wear on Christmas, while the lazy ones would not. It is believed that the yule cat roams the countryside on Christmas eve and eats those who have not received new clothes.
Did you enjoy reading about these Christmas celebrations around the world? In India, given that the population of Christians is comparatively low, the festival is celebrated on a smaller scale. Don’t be fooled by the word ‘small’ though; banana or mango trees are decorated, snacks and goodies are prepared aplenty, families attend midnight mass (especially Catholics), and you cannot miss the classic star lanterns anywhere. Santa Claus is welcomed warmly in households when he comes with carolers, distributing sweets and toys. That’s right, Indians also celebrate Christmas with much fun and love - it’s just spiders and goats and tying up people that they give a hard pass!
Also Read:
How to Celebrate Christmas with Your Kids
Simple Ideas for Decorating Your Home for Christmas
Unique Christmas Tree Decoration Ideas
Amazing Christmas Gift Ideas for Everyone in 2018 Read more
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Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. when baby is kick? I'm 13 weeks pregnant
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
11 hours ago
A. during first pregnancy you may feel the baby movements after 24 to 25 weeks of pregnancy and till then only mild flatters may be felt but which you may not be feeling if you are doing some work
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
10 hours ago
Q. I’m in my 31 week 1 day of pregnancy. What will be my delivery date??
As I have low lying placenta with grade 1 maturity.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
10 hours ago
A. you had to correlate is ultrasound examination. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
10 hours ago
Q. My hemoglobin is 6.4 from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Now I’m 31 weeks pregnant. What should I do?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
10 hours ago
A. Haven’t when you having some kind of iron supplement because they’re very good during the time of pregnancy if you are not having one you need to start with and whatever tabs you take you should just take it with any good juice specially pomegranate juice that’s going to help in doubling the impact of the medicine that you’re taking secondly try and include more of Iron which diet like spinach broccoli beetroot pomegranate black rice sweet potato these things are exceptionally healthy for you to consume
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
9 hours ago
Q. This is my cbc report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
9 hours ago
A. No there is nothing visible on my wall so I can really really cannot help you can you please repose the question once again providing all the necessary details as once I’m certain what are you talking about what’s mentioned in the report according to that I can provide you proper help on your question
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
now I'm 24 weeks. Sometimes I'm feeling pain in my thigh.
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. For thegh query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Onlfine consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
what is the pain killer than can be taken by a breastfeeding mother to deal with pain of stitches after delivery?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
9 mins ago
A. dolo 650 safe analgesic. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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