HOW TO MAINTAIN THE WELLNESS OF TODDLERS AND CHILDREN, KNOW WAYS TO NURTURE MENTAL RESILIENCE IN TODAY'S YOUTH
Children or toddlers are one of the most vulnerable populations because they need to depend on parents or elders for their healthcare. And with the world constantly evolving, the well-being of the little ones in our society has become one of the top priorities. Today, parents and caregivers are looking for holistic wellness remedies that will ensure the overall well-being of children. According to some recent reports, some of the most common diseases a child is prone to include diarrhea, Influenza, the common cold, etc.
Pediatric Care:
To promote the overall health and happiness of your little ones, a pediatric approach that integrates physical, emotional, and mental well-being is important. This kind of approach might include a range of therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine, and nutritional counseling. The goal is to work collaboratively with conventional healthcare practices to optimise outcomes for children.
Re-emergence Of Ayurveda:
Today, Ayurveda has emerged as a prominent healthcare trend in child wellness. Parents and caregivers are looking for ayurvedic remedies and solutions that include a combination of dietary recommendations, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices that are tailored to support a child's overall health. Parents are increasingly turning to Ayurvedic practices such as massage, yoga, and specific dietary guidelines to enhance their children's vitality and resilience.
Talking about this, Ridhi Sharma, CEO of BabyOrgano said, "Ever since the pandemic, people started getting more health-conscious, they started looking for home and ayurvedic remedies to boost their immunity and live a healthy life."
The New-Age Gummies:
Gummies are usually chewable and fruity supplements which have become immensely popular due to their convenience and palatability, making it easier for parents to ensure their children get essential nutrients. What makes gummies healthy is that they contain various vitamins and minerals like vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids which are important for growth and development. Gummie's fun and enjoyable nature makes it simpler for parents to include these supplements in their child's daily routine.
Dr. Archana Gupta, the founder of Purna Gummies said, "Everyone knows how difficult it is to feed the traditional pills to the kids. Studies claim that around 25% of kids find it difficult or hate swallowing pills. However, the new-age gummies have become an appealing alternative medicine for kids. The gummies serve as an alternative form of medicine which makes the administration of necessary medications a more pleasant and manageable experience for both children and their parents."
Mind-Body Practices:
Practices like mindfulness and meditation are gaining high recognition for their ability to promote a healthy emotional state in children and also enhance cognitive abilities like concentration. Making a child or a toddler do mindful breathing every day can help parents calm their child’s mind and body. It helps children be more aware of their emotions and physical sensations.
Another meditative process known to be extremely helpful for children or toddlers is guided imagery. It is a type of meditative process that involves using imagination to develop the mind-body connection. It can be effective for children because they are naturally imaginative.
Dr. Ankita Priydarshini, Consultant Psychiatrist and Founder & Clinical Head - Thriving Minds, Dehradun said, "In today's fast-paced and digitally driven world, parents play a crucial role in safeguarding the mental well-being of their children. As a psychiatrist, I've witnessed the challenges and pressures modern children face, from academic stress to social media overload. However, there are proactive steps parents can take to promote mental health and resilience in their children."
Here are some practical tips to navigate the complexities of the modern age:
- Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe and supportive environment where your children feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Encourage regular conversations about their day, fears, and aspirations. Active listening fosters trust and strengthens the parent-child bond.
- Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time, whether it's smartphones, tablets, or computers, can negatively impact a child's mental health. Set clear boundaries and establish tech-free zones in the house, such as during meals and before bedtime. Encourage outdoor activities and face-to-face interactions to promote social skills and reduce screen dependency.
- Teach Stress Management Skills: Equip your children with coping mechanisms to navigate stress and anxiety. Teach them deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or yoga to promote relaxation and emotional regulation. Encourage them to engage in hobbies and activities that bring them joy and fulfilment.
- Promote Healthy Sleep Habits: Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function and emotional well-being. Establish a consistent bedtime routine and create a peaceful sleep environment free from distractions. Limit caffeine intake and screen exposure before bedtime to ensure quality restorative sleep.
- Foster Resilience: Life is filled with ups and downs, and resilience is the key to bouncing back from setbacks. Encourage your children to embrace challenges and learn from failures. Teach them problem-solving skills and positive self-talk to build resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
- Monitor Social Media Usage: While social media can connect people and provide valuable information, it can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, especially in impressionable young minds. Monitor your children's online activities and educate them about the importance of responsible usage. Encourage a healthy balance between virtual and real-life interactions.
- Prioritise Mental Health Check-ins: Just as you prioritise physical health check-ups, make mental health a priority. Schedule regular check-ins with your children to assess their emotional well-being. Look out for warning signs such as changes in behaviour, mood swings, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.
- Encourage Social Connections: Strong social connections are vital for mental health and resilience. Encourage your children to cultivate meaningful relationships with family, friends, and peers. Foster opportunities for social interaction through extracurricular activities, community events, or volunteering.