As parents, we embark on a journey filled with hopes, dreams, and countless acts of unconditional love for our children. For those of us blessed with a “special child,” this journey, while incredibly rewarding, often comes with unique challenges, questions, and an even deeper wellspring of strength. In the vibrant, diverse tapestry of India, raising a child with special needs means navigating not just the child’s individual requirements, but also societal perceptions, family dynamics, and a unique set of available resources.
This post is for every Indian parent who seeks to understand, empower, and celebrate their special child. We’re here to guide you with expert-backed principles, broken down into simple, actionable steps, ensuring your child can thrive and reach their fullest potential, one precious milestone at a time.
Understanding Your Child’s Unique Journey
Every child is unique, but a “special child” often refers to a child who requires additional support and resources due to developmental differences, learning disabilities, physical challenges, or neurodevelopmental conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, or ADHD. It’s crucial to remember that these are not labels to limit them, but descriptions to help us understand their unique path and provide tailored support.
What is a “Special Child”?
The term “special child” broadly encompasses children who may experience variations in their development compared to their peers. These variations can manifest in several areas, including:
Cognitive Development: Differences in learning, problem-solving, and understanding.
Physical Development: Challenges with motor skills, mobility, or chronic health conditions.
Speech and Language Development: Difficulties with communication, expressing thoughts, or understanding others.
Social and Emotional Development: Unique ways of interacting with others, regulating emotions, or understanding social cues.
Understanding these areas helps us identify where support is most needed, moving beyond mere labels to truly see and nurture our child’s individual strengths and needs.
Early Signs and Why Early Intervention Matters
One of the most powerful tools in a parent’s arsenal is early recognition. Observing your child’s developmental milestones – how they sit, crawl, walk, babble, talk, and interact – is vital. While every child develops at their own pace, consistent delays in several areas might indicate a need for further evaluation.
In India, awareness of developmental milestones is growing, but it’s important for parents to be proactive. If you notice your child isn’t reaching milestones typical for their age (e.g., not making eye contact, not responding to their name, unusual repetitive behaviors, significant speech delays), consult your pediatrician. Early intervention – therapies, special education, and support services initiated in the early years – is absolutely critical. Research in child development shows that the brain is most malleable in early childhood. This “window of opportunity” allows for greater impact from interventions, significantly improving long-term outcomes for the child.
Navigating the Indian Landscape: Challenges and Resources
Parenting a special child in India involves navigating a unique set of social and systemic factors. Understanding these can help you advocate better for your child and yourself.
Overcoming Societal Perceptions
Unfortunately, stigma and lack of awareness surrounding special needs are still prevalent in many parts of India. Parents often face:
Misinformation and Superstition: Harmful beliefs that delay scientific diagnosis and intervention.
Social Isolation: Families may feel isolated due to lack of understanding from extended family or community.
Pressure to “Normalize”: Expectations to hide the child’s condition or avoid seeking specialized help.
It’s vital for parents to become their child’s strongest advocates. Educate family and friends, join parent support groups, and remember that there is no shame in seeking help. Your child’s well-being is paramount.
Finding Support and Resources
While challenges exist, India is steadily expanding its support systems for special children. Here’s where you can look:
Government Initiatives: Explore schemes under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016. Disability certificates, concessions, and certain educational provisions are available.
NGOs and Non-Profits: Many dedicated organizations across India offer therapy, special education, vocational training, and parent counseling. Research local options in your city or region.
Therapists: Seek out qualified professionals – developmental pediatricians, occupational therapists, speech therapists, physical therapists, and special educators.
Parent Support Groups: Connecting with other parents who share similar experiences can provide invaluable emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community. Many are now active online.
Practical Strategies for Nurturing Development at Home
Your home is your child’s first school, and you are their most important teacher. Simple, consistent strategies can make a profound difference.
Creating a Supportive Home Environment
A predictable, safe, and encouraging environment is key for children with special needs.
Structure and Routine: Establish consistent daily routines for meals, playtime, studies, and sleep. This predictability can reduce anxiety and help children feel secure.
Safety and Accessibility: Adapt your home to your child’s physical and sensory needs. This might mean child-proofing, creating a quiet space, or providing visual schedules.
Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate every small achievement. Use praise, hugs, or small rewards to reinforce desired behaviors and efforts. This builds confidence and motivation.
Communication is Key
Every child communicates differently. Learn your child’s unique communication style and adapt yours.
Tailored Communication: If your child struggles with verbal communication, use visual aids, gestures, or simple, direct language. Be patient and give them time to respond.
Active Listening: Pay close attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues. Sometimes, a child’s behavior is their way of communicating a need or feeling.
Encourage Expression: Provide opportunities for your child to express themselves through play, art, music, or assistive communication devices if needed.
Play-Based Learning and Skill Development
Play is how children learn. Integrate learning into everyday activities and play time.
Break Down Tasks: For new skills, break them into smaller, manageable steps. For example, for dressing, first teach putting on a sock, then a shoe.
Focus on Strengths: Identify your child’s natural abilities and interests, and build upon them. This fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Everyday Opportunities: Turn daily chores or activities into learning moments. Sorting clothes by color, helping prepare simple meals, or watering plants can teach various skills.
Fostering Independence and Self-Advocacy
Empowering your child means helping them gain independence appropriate for their age and abilities.
Age-Appropriate Chores: Involve them in household tasks, even simple ones. This builds responsibility and motor skills.
Decision-Making: Offer choices, even small ones (e.g., “Do you want to wear the blue shirt or the green one?”). This builds autonomy.
Teaching Self-Help Skills: Focus on personal care skills like bathing, eating independently, and grooming. These are crucial for dignity and confidence.
Prioritizing Parental Well-being
Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup. Your well-being is inextricably linked to your child’s well-being.
The Importance of Self-Care
Parenting a special child can be emotionally and physically demanding. It’s not selfish to take time for yourself; it’s essential.
Find Personal Time: Even short breaks for hobbies, exercise, or quiet reflection can recharge your energy.
Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or simple breathing exercises. A calm parent creates a calm environment.
Don’t Guilt Yourself: It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or sad. Acknowledge these emotions without judgment.
Building Your Support System
You are not alone on this journey.
Lean on Loved Ones: Communicate your needs to your spouse, family, and trusted friends. Delegate tasks where possible.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with anxiety or depression, talk to a counselor or therapist.
Connect with Peers: Joining parent support groups (online or offline) can provide a safe space to share experiences and gain advice.
Parenting a special child is a testament to extraordinary love and resilience. Each small step, every unique way your child learns and grows, is a victory worth celebrating. In the heart of India, where family bonds run deep, you have the power to create a world where your child is not just accepted, but truly cherished and understood.
Embrace the journey, trust your instincts, and remember that your unwavering love is the most powerful tool for your child’s success. Connect with resources, share your story, and never stop celebrating the incredible individual your child is.
As an experienced childcare provider, I understand the importance of selecting the right option for your child’s early education. When it comes to daycare and preschool, parents often find themselves faced with a crucial decision. While both options provide care for young children, they differ significantly in structure, curriculum, and goals. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the distinctions between daycare and preschool, helping you make an informed decision that will lay a strong foundation for your child’s future.
1. 60-Second Summary:
Daycare offers full-time or part-time care for children from infancy to school-age, while home daycare operates in a home setting with a smaller group of children.
Preschools are designed for children aged 2-5 years and focus on early learning and social development.
Daycare centers provide a safe and nurturing environment, while preschools offer structured programs and activities.
Daycare goals include meeting basic needs and fostering emotional development, while preschools aim to prepare children for formal schooling through cognitive and social skill development.
Both daycare and preschool emphasize play and social interaction.
Preschools have a structured curriculum, cater to specific age ranges, follow set schedules, and emphasize early education, while daycare centers prioritize overall development and provide flexible hours for working parents.
Daycare and preschool costs in India vary based on location, facilities, curriculum, and duration of care. Research and compare fees for affordability.
2. Daycare, Home Daycare, Preschool: Which One is Suitable for Your Family?
Choosing the right option for your family requires careful consideration of several factors. Let’s explore each option in more detail:
– Daycare: Daycare centers are an excellent choice for parents who require full-time or part-time care for their infants or young children while they work. They provide a safe and nurturing environment, focusing on meeting the basic needs of children, including feeding, changing, and nap times. Daycare centers often have flexible hours to accommodate the needs of working parents.
– Home Daycare: Home daycares operate in a more intimate setting, usually run by an individual or small group of caregivers in their homes. Home daycares offer a homely atmosphere with lower child-to-adult ratios, allowing for more individualized attention. This option can be ideal for parents who prefer a smaller and more personal setting for their child’s care.
– Preschool: Preschools are designed for children aged 2-5 years and play a crucial role in preparing children for formal schooling. Preschools focus on early learning and social development, providing a structured curriculum. They offer activities and programs tailored to enhance cognitive, emotional, and social skills. Preschools typically follow a set schedule aligned with school hours, helping children establish routines and develop a sense of structure.
3. Goals of Preschool and Daycare:
While daycare and preschool have distinct goals, both are vital for a child’s growth and development. Let’s explore their objectives:
– Daycare Goals: Daycare centers primarily focus on providing a safe, secure, and nurturing environment for children. They aim to meet the basic needs of children, including feeding, changing, and nap times. Daycare providers foster emotional development, ensuring the overall well-being of the child. Through play and social interactions, children learn essential social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and conflict resolution.
– Preschool Goals: Preschools play a crucial role in preparing children for formal schooling. Their structured programs focus on early learning and social development. Preschools aim to foster cognitive development by introducing pre-literacy and pre-numeracy skills. They encourage independence, curiosity, and creativity. Additionally, preschools promote social skills, including sharing, taking turns, teamwork, and effective communication.
4. Similarities and Differences of Preschool and Daycare:
While daycare and preschool share some similarities, they differ significantly in various aspects. Let’s examine their similarities and differences:
Similarities between preschool and daycare
– Both daycare and preschool provide care and supervision for young children.
– Both environments aim to create a nurturing and supportive atmosphere for children’s growth and development.
– Both daycare and preschool recognize the importance of play and age-appropriate activities in fostering social interaction and overall development.
Differences between preschool and daycare
– Curriculum: Preschools offer a structured curriculum with age-appropriate learning activities, focusing on early education. Daycare centers typically do not have a formal curriculum but prioritize overall development, including physical, emotional, and social aspects.
– Age Range: Daycare centers cater to infants and children of all ages, while preschools typically enroll children aged 2-5 years.
– Duration: Daycare centers often offer longer hours and extended care options to accommodate the needs of working parents. Preschools typically follow a set schedule aligned with school hours.
– Educational Focus: Preschools emphasize early learning, pre-literacy, and pre-numeracy skills to prepare children for formal schooling. Daycare centers focus on providing a safe and caring environment without a structured educational curriculum.
5. What Children Learn in Daycare and Preschool:
Daycare:
In daycare, children learn and develop through exploration, play, and socialization. The focus is on holistic development, including:
– Basic Life Skills: Daycare providers assist children in developing essential life skills such as feeding, dressing, and personal hygiene.
– Social Skills: Children engage in activities that promote social interaction, sharing, cooperation, and conflict resolution. They learn to navigate social situations, building valuable skills for future relationships.
– Emotional Development: Daycare providers foster emotional development by providing a nurturing and supportive environment. They encourage positive emotional expression and help children develop resilience and empathy. – Physical Activities: Daycare centers provide opportunities for physical play and gross motor skills development, helping children enhance their coordination, balance, and strength.
Preschool:
Preschools focus on early education and preparing children for formal schooling. Children learn a wide range of skills, including:
– Pre-Literacy and Pre-Numeracy Skills: Preschools introduce children to letters, numbers, shapes, and colors. They engage in activities that promote language development, phonics awareness, and early writing skills.
– Cognitive Development: Preschools provide age-appropriate activities that stimulate cognitive development, such as puzzles, problem-solving, and creative play. Children learn to think critically, make connections, and develop their problem-solving abilities.
– Social Skills Development: Preschools foster social skills through group activities, collaboration, and peer interactions. Children learn to share, take turns, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team.
– Fine Motor Skills Enhancement: Preschool activities, such as drawing, cutting, and building, help children develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, setting the foundation for future writing and drawing abilities.
6. Different Types of Preschool Programs:
Preschool programs come in various forms, each offering unique approaches to early education. Understanding these types can help you choose a program that aligns with your child’s needs and your educational preferences. Here are a few common types:
– Montessori: Montessori preschools follow the educational philosophy of Maria Montessori, emphasizing hands-on learning, independence, and self-paced development. These programs often have mixed-age classrooms and a focus on self-directed exploration.
– Reggio Emilia: Originating in Italy, Reggio Emilia preschools promote project-based learning, artistic expression, and collaboration between children, teachers, and parents. These programs value the child’s interests and encourage their active participation in their learning journey.
– Waldorf: Waldorf preschools, inspired by Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy, prioritize imagination, creativity, and holistic development. They emphasize play, storytelling, and artistic activities, fostering a strong connection with nature and the arts.
– Academic: Academic preschools place a strong emphasis on early academic skills, such as literacy, numeracy, and structured learning experiences. These programs provide a more formal approach to education, preparing children for academic success.
– Play-based: Play-based preschools focus on learning through play and exploration. They
provide open-ended materials and experiences, allowing children to engage in self-directed learning, problem-solving, and imaginative play.
7. Different Classes in a Preschool Program:
Preschool programs often have different classes that cater to specific age groups. These classes are designed to provide age-appropriate activities, curriculum, and developmental experiences. Let’s explore the various classes commonly found in preschool programs:
1. Playgroup:
The playgroup class is typically the entry-level class for preschool programs. It is suitable for children around the age of 2 or 2.5 years. The primary focus of the playgroup class is to introduce young children to a structured learning environment and promote socialization through play-based activities. Playgroup classes provide opportunities for children to engage in sensory exploration, develop fine and gross motor skills, and begin to learn basic concepts such as colors, shapes, and numbers. The curriculum in playgroup classes often includes art activities, circle time, music and movement, storytime, and free play.
2. Nursery:
Nursery is the next stage in a preschool program and typically caters to children aged 3 to 4 years. Nursery classes build upon the foundations laid in the playgroup class and aim to enhance children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. The curriculum in nursery classes becomes more structured and focuses on building pre-literacy and pre-numeracy skills. Children engage in activities that promote language development, phonics awareness, number recognition, and early writing skills. They participate in interactive group activities, hands-on learning experiences, and creative play. Nursery classes also emphasize social skills development, fostering cooperation, sharing, and communication.
3. Lower Kindergarten (LKG):
Lower Kindergarten (LKG) is the next stage of a preschool program and is generally attended by children aged 4 to 5 years. LKG classes further enhance children’s cognitive abilities, language skills, and overall readiness for formal schooling. The curriculum in LKG classes introduces more structured learning experiences and focuses on literacy and numeracy development. Children learn letter-sound associations, basic reading comprehension skills, number concepts, and early math skills. LKG classes incorporate more complex art activities, science exploration, storytelling, and interactive group projects. Children continue to develop social skills, teamwork, and independence.
4. Upper Kindergarten (UKG):
Upper Kindergarten (UKG) is the final stage of a preschool program before children transition to formal schooling. UKG classes are usually attended by children aged 5 to 6 years. The curriculum in UKG classes further refines the skills and knowledge acquired in previous classes, preparing children for the challenges of primary school. UKG classes focus on building reading and writing fluency, number sense, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking skills. Children engage in more advanced literacy activities, mathematical concepts, science experiments, and hands-on projects. UKG classes emphasize social-emotional development, leadership skills, and preparing children for the transition to primary school.
It’s important to note that the age ranges mentioned above may vary slightly depending on the preschool program and educational system in different countries. Preschools often tailor their curriculum and activities to the specific age group they serve, ensuring that children receive developmentally appropriate experiences that cater to their individual needs and abilities.
In conclusion, preschool programs typically offer different classes such as playgroup, nursery, Lower Kindergarten (LKG), and Upper Kindergarten (UKG), each designed to provide age-appropriate activities and foster the development of key skills necessary for a smooth transition to formal schooling. These classes play a crucial role in preparing children for academic success, social interaction, and overall holistic development.
8. Costs for Preschool and Daycare in India:
The cost of preschool and daycare in India can vary significantly based on several factors, including location, facilities offered, curriculum, duration of care, and additional services provided. It’s essential to consider these factors while keeping your budget in mind. Here’s an overview of the typical cost range for preschool and daycare in India:
Preschool:
Preschool fees can vary depending on the reputation of the institution, location, facilities, curriculum, and the duration of the program. In urban areas and metropolitan cities, preschool fees tend to be higher compared to smaller towns and rural areas. On average, monthly fees for preschool in India can range from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 or more. Some prestigious preschools may have higher fees due to their brand value and exclusive facilities. Additionally, preschools may charge an admission or registration fee at the time of enrollment.
Daycare:
Daycare fees are typically calculated based on the number of hours or the duration of care required. Full-day daycare, which provides care for the entire working day, generally has higher fees compared to half-day or part-time options. The cost of daycare in India can range from ₹4,000 to ₹15,000 or more per month, depending on the location and additional services provided. Some daycare centers may offer additional services such as meals, transportation, and extracurricular activities, which can influence the overall cost.
It’s important to note that these fee ranges are approximate and can vary based on the specific preschool or daycare center, as well as the region in which it is located. It’s advisable to research and compare fees from multiple providers in your desired location to get a better understanding of the pricing range.
Additionally, it’s crucial to consider other expenses that may be associated with preschool or daycare, such as uniforms, books, materials, transportation, meals, and any additional services or activities offered by the institution. These additional expenses can impact the overall cost of your child’s preschool or daycare experience.
Furthermore, some preschools and daycares in India may offer fee structures with different payment options, such as monthly, quarterly, or annual payments. It’s important to inquire about the fee structure and payment policies of each preschool or daycare center you are considering.
When evaluating the costs, it’s essential to strike a balance between your budget and the quality of care and education provided. Remember that the cost should not be the sole determining factor in selecting a preschool or daycare center for your child. Consider factors such as the reputation of the institution, curriculum, facilities, safety measures, teacher qualifications, and parent reviews to make an informed decision.
The cost of preschool and daycare in India can vary significantly based on factors such as location, facilities, curriculum, duration of care, and additional services provided. Preschool fees typically range from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 or more per month, while daycare fees can range from ₹4,000 to ₹15,000 or more per month. It’s important to research and compare fees from multiple providers in your desired location to get a better understanding of the pricing range. However, it’s crucial to consider other aspects, such as the quality of care, educational programs, facilities, and safety measures when making a decision. Striking a balance between affordability and quality is key to ensuring a positive and enriching early education experience for your child.
9. Kiddenz: Simplifying the Process of Choosing the Right Preschool and Daycare:
Choosing the right preschool or daycare for your child is an important decision that requires thorough research and consideration. That’s where Kiddenz, an online platform dedicated to early childhood education, can assist you. Kiddenz offers a comprehensive database of preschools and daycares, providing detailed information on facilities, curriculum, staff qualifications, and parent reviews. Here’s how Kiddenz can simplify the selection process:
– Extensive Database: Kiddenz provides an extensive listing of preschools and daycares, allowing parents to explore various options in their desired location.
– Detailed Information: Each listing on Kiddenz includes key details about the facility, such as age range, programs offered, curriculum, fees, and contact information. This information can help you gather the necessary details to make an informed decision.
– Parent Reviews: Kiddenz features reviews from other parents who have firsthand experience with the preschool or daycare, providing insights into the quality of care and educational programs. Reading these reviews can give you a sense of what to expect from a particular facility.
– Personalized Assistance: Kiddenz offers personalized assistance to parents, helping them understand their child’s unique needs, navigate the selection process, and find the best-fit option. The experts at Kiddenz can provide guidance based on your specific requirements, making your decision-making process more seamless and informed.
10. FAQ Section for Preschool and Daycare:
Q1. What is the typical cost of daycare and preschool in India?
A1. The cost of daycare and preschool can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, facilities offered, curriculum, and duration of care. It is advisable to research and compare costs in your specific area to get a better understanding of the pricing range.
Q2. How do I know if my child is ready for preschool?
A2. Children may be ready for preschool if they show signs of being able to follow simple instructions, interact positively with other children, display an interest in learning and exploring, and demonstrate a certain level of independence in daily activities.
Q3. Is it better to choose a daycare close to my workplace or home?
A3. The decision of whether to choose a daycare close to your workplace or home depends on your priorities and logistical considerations. Selecting a daycare closer to your workplace can provide convenience in terms of drop-off and pick-up, while a daycare near your home may offer a familiar environment for your child and potentially reduce travel time.
Q4. How can I ensure my child’s safety in a daycare or preschool?
A4. Ensuring your child’s safety in a daycare or preschool involves several steps. Visit the facility to assess its cleanliness, safety measures, and overall environment. Inquire about staff qualifications, including background checks and training. Ask about the facility’s protocols for emergencies, health issues, and security. Pay attention to the child-to-adult ratio, as well as supervision during play and outdoor activities. Trust your instincts and observe how the caregivers interact with the children.
Q5. Can preschools help with toilet training?
A5. Many preschools offer support and guidance in toilet training. They may have established routines and strategies to encourage toilet independence, such as regular bathroom breaks, positive reinforcement, and communication with parents. It is advisable to inquire about a preschool’s approach to toilet training and their willingness to collaborate with parents in this process.
Conclusion:
As an experienced childcare provider, I understand the importance of selecting the right option for your child’s early education. Daycare and preschool offer unique benefits and cater to different age ranges and goals. Daycare centers focus on providing a nurturing environment and overall development, while preschools prioritize early learning and social development. By considering factors such as your child’s age, your work schedule, budget, and educational preferences, you can make an informed decision. Thorough research, visiting potential facilities, and utilizing resources like Kiddenz can simplify the selection process and help you find the ideal preschool or daycare that will provide a strong foundation for your child’s future success.
Every parent eagerly waits for their child to talk. It’s a whole new world when your toddler starts talking and you would be at cloud nine! Remember that all children are different and develop at their own pace. Here are some ways to encourage your toddler to get these words flowing.
Keep talking about everything
Talk a lot with your toddler. Exposure to the outer world is important to improve your child’s vocabulary. Speak slowly and smoothly using small simple words and very short sentences.
Keep narrating to your little one what you are doing, where you are going and all that you are up to. In your conversations, keep enough pauses in between, to listen to your child and wait for him to respond.
Become your child’s echo
Repeat what your child spoke by adding on one or two words at a time. This will encourage toddlers to further develop their expressive speech. They will feel motivated.
Reward words
Be generous and appreciate when your baby talks. He will be happy getting applauded for his effort and will try speaking more. Also, share some additional words related to what he/she just spoke.
Don’t anticipate
Make your little one work hard for what he wants. Wait until he or she asks, rather than anticipating their every need and request.
Be blind to gestures
Delay your response to your toddler’s gestures and help your little one work on his/her words. If you fulfil their needs with gestures, your child might be reluctant to work on his or her speech.
When you respond to any request, ensure that you use the word repeatedly and make him understand that you are trying to emphasize a particular word.
It is recommended that children over two years should not be allowed to watch television for more than 2 hours. Children below 2 years of age should be completely discouraged from watching TV.
Listen
Listening is equally as important as speaking. We always seek the person who listens to us when we want to tell something. The same holds with children. So when you give your child your attention when he is talking or making sounds, help him/her to understand that they are really important and worth your time. Sustain their interest in talking by paying attention and encourage them with supporting words.
Point and repeat
Point to things in your everyday life and repeat them until your child gets attentive. The more your child hears a particular word, the more they are going to comprehend it; so keep repeating. You’ll soon hear your baby repeating it!
Remember these sets of words or phrases must include the words of items that the child is attending to, visually at that particular time and then label it for them. Some such words include: during bath time- water, bubbles, soap, bucket; during meal time- spoon, fork, plate, eggs, apple, banana, yummy.
Be animated
Use lots of facial expressions and variations of tones when you talk with your toddler. This will help you create interest around the act of talking and you can retain your baby’s attention for longer periods. Use changes in volume, sing, recite and be narrative all the time. All this gives your baby even more opportunities to learn.
Give your toddler plenty of opportunities to talk during your everyday routine. Keep encouraging them by engaging in fun-filled activities. The more the better; they will get familiarized with words and our little ones will start playing with words!
Children who learn to swim by the age of five are found to be comparatively smarter than their counterparts. These children gain significant developmental advantages while learning to swim. An extensive study revealed that children who learned swimming early experienced more rapid physical and cognitive skill development than other kids.
Physical and visual Motor skills
Swimming gives developmental advantages in balancing the child’s body and its self-propelled movements. Children who learn swimming before the age of five are more adaptable with many other physical tasks. Early swimmers are also able to grasp objects more easily when compared to others. As they start practising earlier, their brains are also sharper than other kids of their age.
Cognitive skills
Children possessing swimming skills are always at par with others in all activities. They have more proficiency in solving arithmetic problems, identifying numbers and even counting. As they start getting trained very early, they are very good at understanding and following instructions. They have a good hold over language, both oral and in writing and identify the shapes correctly in illustrations. These children acquire good memory skills. They have an edge over others in recalling stories, reciting rhymes and whatever things they learn.
Builds muscles
Swim time helps improve a child’s muscle development at a very young age. Children need to develop muscles required to hold their heads up, move their arms and legs accordingly, and work in coordination with their entire body. Swimming is an exercise that provides benefits both internally and externally. It helps strengthen the lungs, heart, brain and blood vessels.
Improves sleeping patterns
For babies, pool time takes a lot of energy. They need to work extra hard to use their bodies in new ways for coordination. This drains the baby of all his energy and he requires more time to sleep after swimming.
Improves appetite
The extra energy given for swimming burns a lot of calories. This leaves your baby hungry and you notice that a baby’s appetite increases after swimming. This is because of the physical exertion and energy they use underwater to stay warm.
Weight management
Swimming is an effective aerobic exercise which keeps the child’s body moving all the time. This avoids childhood obesity and weight is kept under control.
Improves intelligence
Early swimming has a positive effect on the brain. The children have a higher level of Intelligence as they have been following instructions from a very early age. We also have greater cognitive development.
Stress buster
Swimming helps release stress and frustration in mind. When it comes to children, swimming offers them a perfect time for relaxation and let go of their daily pressures. This, in turn, results in a happier and healthier state of mind, free from all tensions. Being away from academics, such activities are necessary for your child to have some time on his own for his physical fitness and outfit.
Babies and toddlers who participate in swimming use more muscles than young children. Water-resistance helps them build muscle strength. They induce early stimulation of brain development. Specific instructions that need to be followed by early swimmers make them obedient at a much younger age. Completing the complex movements in water keeps the body fit and muscles strong. You must encourage your child to learn swimming as early as possible for his overall mental and physical development.
Every parent’s worst nightmare is losing your kid in public places. Parents love to travel with their children or take them out. Child safety should be of paramount importance. Just as we say ‘Prevention is better than cure’ if some tips are kept in mind when you travel with small kids such fearful situations can be avoided.
Dress your child in bright colours
In public places, it is easier to spot a child in bright colours. Before entering the crowded area, help your child memorize how you are dressed. This can help your child describe what you are wearing in case your child gets lost in the crowd. This can also help people in tracing his dear ones easily.
Device a plan for the day
Try to make a plan which is specific to the place you are going to. Point out a meeting spot to your child. Help the child to recognize the spot and its surroundings well. Ensure that the meeting point that you have selected can be easily located and reached by your child. Ask him to reach there and to wait if he gets separated from the group.
Train your child on what to do when he gets lost
Children should be taught what they must do if they get lost in public places. For a child’s safety, you must teach them that they must approach a responsible adult, for example, a security guard, a police or a mother with children. Children must explain the situation to adults and seek their help. Make them understand that they should never accept a ride from a stranger or never exit the premises if he/she is lost in an enclosed area like a mall or park and never accept food items or drink from strangers.
Help your child to memorise a few important details
For a child’s security, your child should be able to tell their full name and age, their home address, their parent’s full name and their mobile number.
If your child is too small to memorize, you can write them down in a piece of paper and place it in his or her pocket. You can also think of making an ID card for your child to wear in public places.
Keepa recent digital photo of your child with you
This is in case your child does get lost in a public place. Recent photographs describing features of your baby will help those involved in the search recognize the child from the crowd.
Consider using a digital tracking device
With the growth of Technology, using a digital tracking system can be of help. This can help you keep track of your child’s location using a smartphone that has access to the GPS device’s tracking signal.
Give him a mobile phone
If your child is old enough, you can consider giving him a mobile phone. Hand him at least a feature phone just for the duration of the trip. In case he gets lost can be used to get in touch with the parents.
Stay alert
Remember that you should not get too distracted or involved in a conversation with your spouse, friends, or other family members. Have an eye on where your kids are and what they are up to. Staying alert in a public place is the best precaution that can be taken for your child safety.
Losing your child in a public place can indeed be a traumatic experience. So when you start planning to take your children out to have fun; prepare them well for what they should do in case they get separated from their parents. This will help the children to be alert and act wisely even if they get lost in a crowd, and will be doing the appropriate things as their parents have taught them.
Crawling is probably the first way that your baby will start moving. This little achievement of witnessing your baby crawling for the first time is always heartwarming. Once your baby starts moving, he/she will be scooting around your home in no time.
How does your child learn this skill
Crawling is indeed a pretty complex process. Babies need to learn to coordinate their body parts for the first time. It might take a while for them to get prepared.
After having spent enough tummy time, the muscles in the baby’s arms and shoulders get strengthened. Eventually, the child starts taking mini push-ups. The baby will then spend more time lying on her tummy using her arms for the support, she will try lifting their head and chest.
With the help of their forearms, your baby will start to move around pulling themselves along on their tummy. Slowly and steadily your little one will get up on all fours and start moving backward and forward keeping their arms straight and balancing their body parallel to the floor. Once started, the game is theirs!
When does a baby crawl
Most of the babies learn to crawl when they are around 6 and 10 months. Each baby is different and they all develop at different rates. Even if your child takes more time, there is nothing to worry about.
Parents role in supporting your baby crawl
Providing tummy time
Give your baby plenty of tummy time from the start. This will help him develop the muscles that your baby needs to crawl. Tummy time also helps prevent flat spots from developing on your baby’s head.
Incentives to grab
Place a set of toys or other desirable objects beyond the reach of your baby. You should encourage him/her to crawl and grab the objects quickly.
Ensure your child’s security
Make sure that your child has space to explore that is safe and supervised. Having crawling children at home, child-proofing is a must. Check all corners of your home and see what potential hazards might be present at your baby’s level.
Keep your hand behind your child’s feet when he is on all fours
This will make him more confident and will give him a “push off” when he is just learning to crawl.
Things you must avoid
Compelling your baby to learn to crawl
This might give a negative impact on the child’s overall crawling process. Pushing your child to develop a skill for which she is not ready can slow down the learning process. Give him his own time to get prepared.
Spending lots of time in the baby seat and baby carriers
Though this might be comfortable for parents when they are in public, they restrict the movement of your children. For your child to learn how to crawl and then stand straight and walk, they need plenty of time and space to move around and explore.
Using baby Walkers
This limits the practice time which the babies should spend on floor learning to crawl. Walkers also hamper a child’s muscle development, as it aids walking easily.
When should you be concerned about your baby’s crawling
Different babies develop their skills at their own pace. There is nothing wrong if your baby is slow to crawl. They may be figuring out other skills that are more interesting to them. Premature babies and babies that are obese take some extra time to crawl and reach other milestones.
Some babies never crawl! From lying on their tummies, they go straight to standing and walking.
You need to be concerned only if your little one is not showing any normal signs of mobility like trolling, shuffling, scooting along the floor. Take them to a pediatrician if your baby can’t complete the above-mentioned basic movements by the time they are six or seven months old.
Different children achieve various milestones at their own pace. Never worry much if your child is a little late. If your child is actively doing his activities and improving his movements, he/she is doing fine. Encourage your child in everything they achieve and you will see your little one growing by each day achieving his milestones one after the other!
It is the responsibility of the parent to monitor the growth of your baby closely and check for the milestones to be achieved. But, it is vital to understand that the development pattern and growth of each baby differ. You should not be anxious if your baby discovers to walk later than others or his height is not in order like other kids of the same age.
In what way baby growth is measured?
Height
Weight
Attaining puberty
Other changes such as the growth of hair, the ability to speak, the arrival of teeth, learning to walk, etc.
Doctors usually are more concerned about the baby’s weight and height. While the height of a little one relies on his genes largely, it is very significant to monitor the weight chart of the baby boy. Weight can inform whether the baby can digest food appropriately and can take out nutrition from it.
Baby Growth Chart
A growth chart is vital to follow your baby’s growth consistent with his age. Though there is no perfect weight and height, there is a specific growth pattern that helps you evaluate your baby’s milestones. Girls and boys have diverse growth charts as boys are a little taller than girls. Also, growth patterns differ. The most excellent way to keep a track of your baby boy’s weight and height is to take him for regular doctor checkups. Your baby’s doctor will measure his head circumference, weight, and height and will then compare them with the standard growth charts.
Factors that can influence the growth of the baby
The growth of your baby boy’s rate depends partially on his metabolism and body type, and partially on his general health, the environment and feeding habits. The factors that have an impact comprise:
Your physical condition when you were pregnant: This can impact the store of nutrients your baby has when born. Your lifestyle habits, weight, and diet can also have an important influence on your child’s growth in his first year.
Feeding
Feeding offers your baby with the essential calories he typically necessitates to grow. Until he is 6 months old, he is reliant on breast milk or formula feed for nutrition. The duration and amount of feeding affect his growth.
Birth Weight Of Your Baby
It points out how well you have nurtured your baby during pregnancy. But, babies born with low birth weight grow quicker, and babies born with high birth weight grow gradually. It is also known as a catch-up or catch-down growth.
Your Physical Condition After Pregnancy
If you go through postnatal despair or are sick for any reason, it will be hard for you to take care of your infant. This may eventually affect his growth. But, it is not lasting and gets solved once you get well.
Genes
Genes also play a noteworthy role in the growth of the baby. If both the parents are sturdy, your child is likely to be healthy. Likewise, if both parents are skinny, even the baby would be underweight.
Minor Diseases
Diseases such as ear infections and flu affect the baby’s development, but only provisional. He may not want to drink milk when he is unwell, and this might have an effect on his growth. The growth comes back to normal after he starts drinking milk and feeling well.
If you feel that the growth is abnormally sluggish or there is a vast disparity in him and his peers you should consult his paediatrician and get appropriate guidance.
When toddlers are slower to develop communication, emotional, physical, and social skills than expected, it is called developmental delay. Developmental delay can turn up in the way children shift, behave, think, communicate and learn with others. When more than one of these areas is affected, it may be called a global developmental delay.
Developmental delay may be short term, or it may be the first sign of a long-term issue.
Lasting developmental delays are also known as developmental disabilities. Instances are intellectual disability, learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy.
Signs that indicate that your toddler’s development has been delayed
Every toddler develops differently but as a general guide, you might be worried about the developmental delay if you notice that, over several months, your child is not developing language, social or motor skills at the same rate as other kids of the same age.
Things to do for delayed development in your toddler
As a parent, you know your toddler better than anyone else. If you are worried about your child’s development, rely on your instincts and talk to your paediatrician, and nurse.
These health professionals can make a diagnosis of developmental delay after evaluating your child. Or they can refer you to other professionals who can assist.
People who can assist a toddler with developmental delay
Your paediatrician and nurse can assist if you think your kid might have developmental delay, or your kid has a developmental delay diagnosis. The below-mentioned experts can also assist:
Audiologist
Occupational therapist
Physiotherapist
Speech pathologist
Psychologist
Special education teacher
Social worker
Living with developmental delay
Like other toddlers, kids with developmental delays keep learning. But they take longer to develop new skills, and they may learn in somewhat different ways from other kids. For instance, most kids can learn skills fast and by instance. But kids with developmental delay may need to be shown skills in simpler, smaller steps. They may also require more time and chances to practise skills.
At preschool or school, your kid may need additional support to do well. It is always a good idea to talk with preschools and schools about your child’s requirements. And if your child has a disability diagnosis, you may be able to get school support.
Do not worry about delayed development
Keep in mind that children develop at different rates. But, if you think your child is developmentally delayed, consult with your doctor. If your school-age child is diagnosed with developmental delay, you may be entitled to special services. Specialized services differ as per the need and location.
Consult with your physician and your school district to discover what services are present. Specialized education, particularly when started early, can assist your child’s progress and achieve more in school.
Treatments for developmental delays differ as per the specific delay. Some treatments comprise physical therapy for assistance in motor skill delay and behavioural and educational therapy for help with ASD and other delays.
In a few cases, medications may be recommended. A diagnosis and an evaluation from a paediatrician are vital to come up with a treatment plan particularly designed for your kid.
The focus of your kid’s health proof is his growth diagram. Kids who are developing at the usual rate and whose weight and length or height is quite well matched are usually healthy. Your doctor will monitor your baby’s weight and height on a percentile chart. With time, your provider would be able to see whether your baby is growing at a normal rate.
How does Baby Growth Charts Work?
The curves you notice on a baby growth diagram imitate average development—in head circumference, length, and weight —for girls and boys depending on their age. The physician will measure and weigh the baby then include a mark to the diagram to plan your kid’s latest gains. The curve is simply those dots linked over time.
How frequently is the baby’s growth measured?
Doctors will whisk out the measuring tape and place baby on a scale during every checkup, which means at birth, after 3 to 5 days and at one, two, four, six, nine, twelve, fifteen, eighteen, twenty-four, and thirty months, then annually after that. The main thing your doctor is looking for is constancy.
If you are interested in the baby’s growth, check out the below-mentioned guidelines:
Newborn milestones
Week 1: It is only been a week, but your newborn knows he can depend on you. By now, he can distinguish your voice, and the acquaintance helps him adjust to the weird new world outside the womb.
Week 2: In the second week, your baby can focus on objects a few inches away. As you feed your little one, move your head from side to side slowly and see if his eyes follow you. This helps make his eye muscles and tracking skills.
Week 3: Though his movements are still jerky and haphazard, your baby can begin snuggling by week three. As you hold him, watch how he adjusts his position towards you. He finds your arms soothing and reassuring.
Week 4: This week you will see your baby is using his vocal cords in ways other than crying. He may make ahh and coo sounds, particularly when he sees parents. Babies learn by imitating, so replay his sounds back to him.
1 Month Baby Milestones
Week 5: This week your baby’s movements become more purposeful and smoother. Make sure to give your little one a mini-drill by pulling him slowly to a sitting pose, or allow him to rest with belly-down on your arm. Make sure to support his head during activities.
Week 8: Although your child’s head is still unsteady, the neck muscles are getting firmer by the day. Your baby can lift his head about 45 degrees. Put him on his stomach for brief periods each day so he can practice.
2 Month Baby Milestones
Week 9: This week sounds attract your baby, particularly high pitches and tones. He is also interested in hearing you talk, and will stare at your mouth intently as you speak to him. He may even reply with cooing.
Week 12: The baby by now has discovered an everlasting source of delight: his hands. He has understood that the thumbs and fingers are individual objects. He can also get his hands together, staring at them and then place them to his mouth to taste.
3 Month Baby Milestones
Your kid is getting stronger by the day. He may protest when he is placed on his stomach, but he needs tummy time every day for exercising his chest, neck, arm muscles, and rib cage. This is important for sitting up, rolling over, and crawling.
Consider these simple guidelines for toddler growth in the first year: Till six months, a toddler can grow half to one inch a month and put on about 200 grams per week. Your baby can increase his or her birth weight by two –times at about 5 months’ age.
Like learning to crawl, sit and walk, potty training is a skill that your child must learn. There is no perfect or specified age to start potty training. It all depends on the way you train your child to practice which becomes his habit. Let us go through some signs to make sure our little ones are prepared to be potty trained. Though having a potty trained baby is a very big achievement, it takes time, focus and plenty of patience.
When to start potty training
Just like crawling, walking, talking and sleeping through the night, every child has got its own time. Potty training success depends on the physical, development and behavioural milestones and not age. Some babies show signs of being ready for potty training by the age of 18 or 24 months, whereas others might not be ready at all till they are three or four years old. Never rush till a child is ready.
Ask yourself the following:
Can your baby sit in a potty seat and get up without any help?
Can he understand and follow basic instructions?
Can your baby walk to and sit on the toilet?
Can your child communicate with you when he or she needs to go to the toilet?
Can the baby stay dry up to 2 hours?
If your answer for most of these questions is yes then your child might be ready. But if you answered mostly no, you will need to wait. If Potty training is started before the child is ready it will take even longer than needed. Toddlers can be very stubborn at times, and this will ruin the entire process.
Be patient with your child
Don’t judge your child’s intelligence or stubbornness with the potty training success or difficulty. Don’t compel your child; let your child’s motivation lead the process. Also, understand that punishment has no role in the process. You need to plan and devote time and energy consistently and continuously for a few months until the child understands. Ready, set, go!
Choose your words
Decide on the words that you are going to use for your child’s potty needs. Avoid negative words like bad, dirty or stinky.
Fix a place and equipment
Fix a particular place to use potty preferably in the bathroom and encourage your child to sit on the potty frequently. Use simple and positive things to talk about the toilet like describing how to use the potty, show their purpose and teaching them to flush the toilet.
Schedule potty brakes
Scheduling a specific time would make your job easy. Pick them to the toilet right after naps would be a good start.
Take them fast!
When you notice signs that your baby needs to use the toilet such as squatting, squirming or holding the genital area- respond quickly. Help your child become familiar with these signals, stop whatever they are doing and take them to the toilet. Appreciate and praise your child for telling you when he or she needs to go and continuously remind them.
Explain hygiene
Educate girls to spread their legs and wipe carefully from front to back after urination. Emphasis on the importance of washing his/her hands afterwards.
Irrespective of the baby’s age, if your child is resisting using the potty chair or toilet continuously, think over. In case you feel he is not ready, take a break! Try again in a few months.
Nighttime training
This might take a little longer to achieve. If your child’s diaper is dry or only slightly damp when a child wakes in the morning in a row, they may be ready for night time potty training.
When to seek help
If your baby seems to be ready for potty training but is having difficulties continuously, approach a pediatrician. He or she may guide you and help you with tips to overcome the situation. They will check to see if there is an underlying problem.
Potty training is a continuous process and needs patience. To keep control over their bowels and bladder may take a while for some children. You need to be patient throughout and keep them prepared to follow the schedule for their needs gradually at their pace. Believe it, potty training experience is worth the effort and your toddler will be independent once he/she succeeds.
