Children require a lot of care, right from the day they are born, until they are capable enough to take care of themselves. Especially this year, while the world was attacked by the COVID-19 pandemic, parents were cautioned to take extra care of their little ones, to keep them away from the fatal virus. The virus also led to the least expected situation i.e. completion of the whole academic year through online classes. It was challenging for both the children and teachers as well as the parents. Kids ended up spending more time gazing at screens, which heavily affected their mental and physiological health. Along with the havoc that the novel coronavirus created this year, let us look at some more trends and kids' health issues that were discussed throughout the year.
COVID-19
Initially, when we knew little about the disease, kids were considered to be under the high risk category. But gradually, as we understood more and more about the new virus, we learnt that children were rather less affected by it as compared to the adults. Children who contracted the disease presented milder symptoms, which lessened the worry amongst parents.
However, apart from the disease, COVID-19 adversely affected kids' mental health. Due to the pandemic, children were left restricted to their homes, schools were shut down and outdoor activities were provisionally terminated. All this led to boredom, anxiety, irritation, depression and laziness in them. They also felt detached and distant from their friends. All this negatively affected the mental state of kids.
Obesity
Another problem that was in the limelight, relating to the kids’ health was Obesity. Being locked up at home due to the pandemic resulted in an increased screen time, with binge eating alongside. Lack of physical activities, disciplined routine and more unhealthy eating practises led to weight gain. Experts also said that obesity in children can cause fatigue, loss of sleep, increased tension and some might also have difficulty in breathing. If the problem increases, one might face major diseases including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and sleeplessness. Therefore, along with the fear of novel coronavirus, fear of their kids getting obese worried the parents even more.
Baby Health
Neonatal age comes with many challenges as there are many factors that can hamper their growth and body development. This year, we discussed how with simple ways, a baby can be healthy and fit. Here is a recap:
- Massage:
Abhyanga or massage for the baby should be done everyday before bath to relieve fatigue, improve blood circulation and digestive power, to enhance the skin texture and nourish hair. Massaging the baby also strengthens their bones, joints and muscles. You can start with a gentle massage one week after the birth, but since the baby is very delicate at this age, extra care is required. Apart from this, if the massage is done between 10-12 O’clock during noon in sunlight or if the child is kept in the sun for a while after massage, then the child also gets the required amount of Vitamin D. - Nutrition:
Proper nutrition is extremely important for the baby. For the first 6 months, they should be fed with only mother’s milk. The first milk is called Colostrum and must be fed, especially after the birth of the baby. It is said to protect the child from many diseases like a vaccine. Gradually after 6 months, other liquid and semi-solid foods like lentils and rice water, fruit and vegetable juice too can be introduced to their diet. After the seventh month, the child can be given a light solid food such as soup, cod or grinded food like vegetable bread, lentils, rice and cheese. Experts suggest to avoid feeding honey, eggs, fish, meat, dry fruits, too much salt and sugar to the babies. Do not replace milk with solid food items or vice versa. Apart from milk, dairy products like paneer, curd, ghee, butter should also be included in the diet.
Between the age of 6-18 months, babies start developing teeth. This period can be a little troublesome for them. Therefore, experts suggest visiting a dentist once the baby is 6 months old. Do not feed your baby any additional sugar or chocolates at least for 4 years and ensure proper cleaning and brushing of teeth.
Worm Infections
Kids at the age of 1-14 years are at the risk of worm infections and one such infection is Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) infections or intestinal worms. Once the worms enter our body, they go to the intestine, hold on to it and start feeding on the nutrients. If the problem is not catered to on time, it can lead to problems like Anaemia due to internal bleeding and Malnutrition as a result of loss of nutrients. Therefore, experts suggest deworming in children once every year.
Vision Problems
Due to restricted outdoor activities and online classes during the pandemic, the time spent on screen by kids was increased, which led to many vision problems amongst them. According to the Pediatric Ophthalmologist, increased screen time can Increase in the risk of short-sightedness or myopia in children, lead to progression of myopia, cause stress and anxiety, behavioural issues, loss of social skills and disturbances in the sleep patterns. Therefore, it was recommended that:
- Children who have been advised or are wearing glasses should use them regularly
- Have the 20-20-20 rule, i.e. take a 20 seconds break, every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away.
- Engage your kid in different recreational activities like board games or other physical activities
- Screen protectors can be used to adjust the glare
- Ensure that the kid has a healthy and balanced meal every day
Therefore, the best way to take care of your kids and keep them healthy and fit is by encouraging them to take proper nutrition and not missing out on regular physical activities. Include exercise or workout sessions in their routine. Since children follow the footsteps of their parents and elders, be a role model for your child.
