Find Safe Art supplies for Kids-2     There is lot more to know about Art supplies, when we talk about the safety they offer. Here are some more of what we learnt in our earlier article on the same matter. Crayons and Markers: Petroleum-based crayon sales might have slowed down but they are still available in the market. The word 'Non-Toxic' is quite popular with art supplies and kids toys but do you know what makes the others toxic? Oil pastels are usually petroleum-based, even ordinary crayons are so..these days, water-soluble or washable crayons have made life easier..they are more non-toxic than the others. Easy to use and can be washed off..just then they are more brittle than the traditional crayons. Unscented crayons are made more these days. Soy-based crayons are made from sustainable soybean oil. There might be an assumption among parents about the brightness of these friendly products...they are as brighter as the older versions.   In India, we are used to introducing letters and writing to children with the help of a Slate and Chalk, traditionally. Dustless chalk is better...even in a School or College environment, these dustless chalks can make breathing easier for the students and teachers. Colored Eco-Pencils, products of Sustainable Forestry Initiative and recycled wood are other options of coloring supplies. Just make sure to stay away from conventional dry-erase markers, they contain harmful neurotoxin Xylene, and Permanent markers emit fumes...Sketch pens come these days in Washable options, they are safer than the older versions with toxins and chemicals.   Paints: Water-based colors, Water-soluble and non-toxic Acrylic paints are beginning to be available in the market. Chroma Brand Tempera paints are safer as they remove some of the hazardous ingredients during the production process. Water-based Tempera paints are easy to use. Instead of using oil paints that emit fumes and require turpentine, a petroleum-based product to clean the brushes, it is better to follow the shine-less look with Acrylic and Tempera. Sametime, make sure the Acrylic paints you purchase donot have Formaldehyde or Ammonia. Even Aerosol paint sprays are harmful when inhaled, hence they should be applied in a well-ventilated space, using protective nose and eye masks. Canvas: Fabric used to make canvas boards or canvas screens can be made from recycled, unbleached cotton. Afterall, you buy a white canvas board to paint on it, then why look for a bleached, whitest white board ?! The board used to stretch the fabric can be made from recycled wood instead of fresh wood. Modelling Clay and such: Non-toxic clays are available in the market, these days. They are even Gluten-free, made from wheat-free to flour to avoid gluten allergies among children and adults. Even the colors used can be controlled when they are natural. Homemade modelling clay ideas can be found on the internet, they are more eco-friendly, safer and affordable versions. For school modelling projects, one can consider using paper mache, made from old newspapers, recycling used post envelopes, advertisement brochures etc. tutorials are numerous on the web. Store-bought paper mache might contain harmful chemicals and fibers. Polymer clays are available in the market but they contain PVC or Vinyl. Arts and Crafts if nurtured and encouraged bring out the most creative of the creative people there in the world...it is wonderful to cherish their works, even wonderful to realise that they dont leave a bad footprint on the Earth, by using the 'safest, eco-friendliest' supplies.   ..Prathyusha

  పిల్లలకు ప్రేమతో.... వాలెంటైన్స్ డే ........ ప్రపంచం మొత్తాన్ని తన గుప్పెట్లో పెట్టుకుని ప్రేమలోకంలో కుర్రకారుని ఉర్రూతలూగించె రోజు. ఇది కేవలం టీనేజర్స్ ని మాత్రమే కాదు ఇంకా టేనేజ్ లోకి అడుగుపెట్టని పిల్లల్ని సైతం తన ప్రభావంతో ఉయ్యలలూగిస్తోంది. తెలిసి తెలియని అమాయకత్వంతో అయోమయంలో పడే పిల్లలకి తల్లితండ్రులు ఇచ్చేకొద్దిపాటి అవగాహన చాలు. వాళ్ళు దారితప్పి తప్పటడుగు వేయకుండా చూసుకోటానికి. పిల్లల మనసులు ఎలా ఉన్నా ఇలాంటి పోకడలతో తమ పిల్లలు ఎక్కడ చేయిజారిపోతారో లేదా వాళ్ళకి తెలియకుండానే ఏదైనా తప్పుడు మార్గాన్ని అనుసరిస్తారేమో  అనే భయం  చాల మంది పేరెంట్స్ కి ఉంటుంది. ముందు మీలో ఉన్న ఆ భయాన్ని, టెన్షన్ ని పక్కన పెట్టేయండి. హాయిగా వాళ్లతో మాటామాట కలుపుతూ మాటల్లో వాలెంటైన్స్ డే ప్రత్యేకతని వాళ్ళ వయసువారికి అర్ధమయ్యే రీతిలో చెప్పటం మొదలుపెడితే మంచి ఫలితం కనిపిస్తుంది. మీరే  వాలెంటైన్స్ డే అంటే ప్రేమికుల రోజు అనే అభిప్రాయాన్ని వారిపై రుద్ది , ఆ రోజు ఇలా చెయ్యకు అలా చెయ్యకు, బయటకి వెళ్ళకు  అంటూ నిబందనలు పెట్టకండి. మనం ఏదైతే వద్దు  అంటామో దాని మీదే పిల్లల ఆసక్తి పెరుగుతుంది. ఆ విషయం గురించి ఇంకా ఇంకా తెలుసుకోవాలనే తపన మొదలవుతుంది. అందుకే అలాంటి వాటికి దూరంగా ఉండమని హెచ్చరించటం కాకుండా వాళ్ళకి అర్ధమయ్యేలా చెప్పటం ఉత్తమం. వాలెంటైన్స్ డే అంటే మనని ఇష్టపడేవారికి,మనం ఇష్టపడేవారికి మన కృతజ్ఞతని తెలిపే రోజుగా పిల్లలకి ఈ రోజుని పరిచయం చెయ్యండి. ఎదుటివారు మన మీద చూపించే ప్రేమకి మనం తిరిగి ఏమిచ్చినా తక్కువే కదా!అందుకే మన ఇష్టాన్ని వాళ్ళకి నచ్చిన వస్తువులు కొనివ్వటం ద్వారా గానీ లేదా ఒక చిన్న మెసేజ్ ఉన్న గ్రీటింగ్ కార్డు కొన్నివటం ద్వారా  గాని తెలియచేయ్యచ్చు అనే విషయాన్నీ సున్నితంగా వివరిచండి. ఒక గిఫ్ట్ కొని దానిని అమ్మమ్మకి,మామయ్యకి,చెల్లెలకి లేదా అన్నయ్యకి మీరే మీ చేతులతో ఇప్పించి హ్యాపీ వాలెంటైన్స్ డే అని చెప్పించండి.ఒక వస్తువు కొని దానిని ఎదుటివారికి ఇస్తే వచ్చే ఆనందం ఎలా ఉంటుందో పిల్లలకి నేర్పిస్తే వాళ్ళు ఎప్పటికి మీ ఆలోచనలకి అతీతంగా ప్రవర్తించరు. ఈ కాన్సెప్ట్ పిల్లల మనసుకి అర్ధమయ్యేలా మనం చెప్పగలిగితే వాళ్ళు మొదటిగా ఇచ్చె వాలెంటైన్స్ డే  గ్రీటింగ్ కార్డు మీదే కావచ్చు. --కళ్యాణి

  Lack of Parent-Child Time   Parents usually worry about not being able to spend more time with their children once the school schedule starts at home. Until then, Mom might complain daily that she is hardly getting a ME ONLY time..everything changes once the child starts going to preschool and there is no other child left at home. At this stage, most Moms too find a job for themselves, and then starts the worry..'Am i spending enough time with my child?', 'is my child feeling the change?', 'is my child feeling neglected?', 'would that affect his/her development?' and all such questions. Well, these feelings will only prove that 'you haven't changed', that 'your children are still your priority'. Research says that children's development isn't related to the quantity of time spent with their parents, but it is the quality of time that really counts. Society and the trend had been changing from over a decade and two..it is not just the Dad, but Mom too works. It is very rare to see a family where Mom commits to be a Stay Home Mom forever.  Such families are blessed..and blessed are even those families where Moms are encouraged by others to step out and achieve their dreams..however, Moms and Dads would still bother about their children. Due to the busy schedules, we maynot be able to spend as much time everyday as during the weekends or holidays...just make sure you have dinners together. Family bonding is miraculous and healing. If you are lucky, make sure to spend few more minutes relaxing with the family, 'WITHOUT THE TV'., 'DISCUSSING ONLY THE GOOD MATTERS'. Start your day with a target to reach home early and spend some more moments with your kids. Let that thought be a bulls eye to hit, everyday. Weekends should be family oriented. I know you can't escape extra work if it knocks at your desk, but try if you can compensate with a trip to the park or a lunch/dinner date with the kids at at healtheir restaurant. Cooking together with kids is a great experience...but remember to 'HAVE PATIENCE' as kids are kids, they might forget their rules of cleanliness and play with food...let it not be a fired up time...you are the parent, so keep your cool and either deal with the kids or divert them to a playroom. Because you are worried about the quality time you spend with your children, you are definitely going to do your best to make it a happy family where kids are the happiest. Have fun !! --Pratyusha

  Parent's Touch, a Therapy The Parent's Touch is the first confirmation signal a child receives promising the baby that absolute love and wholesome care soon after stepping into this word. The sense of touch, is the first of the five senses developed right when in utero. When Mom touches her belly, the child feels the warmth. This parent-child interaction without words is priceless. It teaches the child that Mom will take care of him/her in this strange world. It proves to the child that parents love their children immensely and nurtures that confidence to learn to live. However, the vagus nerve which conveys 'sensory' information to the brain is still not developed even after birth. Parents' touch helps stimulate this nerve growth, useful for a healthy brain functioning in the future. Studies show that infant who received regular body massages developed this nerve faster than babies who ddnt receive special body massages and were only touched by parents during diaper changes and baths. What more does massaging do...it is all about touch..massaging has other benefits like improving blood circulation, enhancing the function of immune system, and ease bloating, gas, colic and congestion. It helps the body to relax which is why massaging spas exist for adults. Massaging helps babies to calm down and relax, it helps parents to easily put babies to sleep and stay asleep longer. Touch therapy has helped bring back many 'at-risk' babies to life. There have been quite a good number of articles on this, waking up a baby to life from a coma stage etc. Touch therapy is used by many pediatric orthopeditians and physio therapists who deal with neurologically challenged babies, they use it to stimulate nerve growth. The Deaf and Blind schools and carecenters use this Touch therapy to help calm down and even educate kids. At the University of Miami, USA, Doctors use Touch therapy to boost the health of babies in neonatal ICU. Kangaroo Care is one such, they use it in hospitals across America and other places. If the parents ask, Doctors offer to bring a just-born to the Mom, and allow the child to bond instantly..during this time the child is not drapped in clothes. Touch therapy is not involving a therapist or a Doctor to massage babies, they ask the parents to touch and massage babies, targeting the parent-child relationship positively for the wellbeing of the child. This nurturing touch enriches emotional, social, psychological, physiological connections of both child and parents. When a parent starts the massage, the child forgets everything and begins to watch mom/dad. The parent gets engaged in watching the child's cues, responses, pleasant moods etc., it is a techinique that helps and teaches parents to handle babies, soothe them, comfort them...which makes it easy to handle kids without anyones help in the future. It is an excellent tool to help parents get closer to their babies. Its all in your hands !! --Pratyusha

  Ego wall... For some couple Parenting is so joyful journey where they learn many things from kids,but  for some it becomes taxing life. Why? what  is the cause for this exact opposite feel? To be frank there is one and only single word, which makes a lot of difference and its called " EGO" Normally people think ego clash will come with either same age or elder people,but the reality is parents do face this ego issue even with their own children. * We ave seen life,learn from our mistakes * I think i am elder to you and i dont need to learn from u * Decision making comes with age and that age is on y side Such statements often come from parents. They are often called disciplinarian parents.its a one way communication when it comes to this type of parenting. They want their children to learn from their own life. Which is a very wrong way of seeing things. Children that too this generation children have a thought of their own, they want to experiment with life, learn from their own mistakes,and be their own boss. Even though leaving them to their fate is not the point here,parents should understand that these children are more exposed to life than these parents are in their child hood. So giving them a chance to experiment with life to an extent where its not injurious to their health is always recommended. Parents should not bring their EGO in between, they should accept few things as they come. They should also not bring their EGO and be silent when these same children come for advice when in problem. Parents should try and break the Ego Wall which separates them from children. If we as parents cant come out of our Ego and talk truth with our kids, how can we expect them to come clean with facts. Treating children as friends is nothing but over powering EGO Happy Parenting --Pushpa

  Being Human Parents usually face a challenge to train their children in practising restraint,holding back rage and being soft and sensitive with people around (including parents). But what they fail to understand is children are not there to be TRAINED like animals. They have a thought of their own, they have their own feelings,and emotions,which can never be trained to be some thing else. Now the question is,if they are not to be trained, should they be left alone to learn and be human to people around on their own?How is this possible?? Yes it is possible if parents stay human, and sensitive with their children in particular and the society as a whole.Because children ape their parents,and step exactly on their foot steps. For example,if a mother goes on cursing people around from servant maid to mother in law,either in person or in their absence,what will a child learn? If a father tries to demean people around from some one like a driver to a relative to his own wife at home,then how will a child seeing him, grow into a sensitive individual ?? Now i think you have the answer . Yes if at all we as parents are well behaved our children will follow suite. If we are Human then they too will be. If we as parents are more sensitive to them and the people around,then children too will unknowingly follow us. If you think this is training...then the training has to be  to parents than children. Most of the people say Parenting is a tough and thankless job.If parenting is supposed to be a tough job,it can be made easy with a little thought and understanding. But if you think its thank less...then re think about the question itself...Happy Parenting in a Happy New Year. --Pushpa

  Are your kids eating right?? We often find that parents get stressed out to make their children eat right things and in right time. Bearing the strict schedules Children often question parents or rather to be precise their mother as to why should they maintain regular timings and proper food pattern? why cant they jump the rule? Poor moms find it hard to reply this question to children's content.   On average, we eat 4-6 times each day – including snacks - with almost one third of food being eaten outside of the home. This trend of ‘eating on the go’ is predicted to grow. It can often be difficult to find well balanced meals or snacks when out and about - you are more likely to eat a balanced meal when you are in control of what, and how much, you put on your plate. Lets  see if we can help those moms  with some tips to convince them.   * Eating habits always helps in regularizing the digestion process   * Regular pattern will control over eating, coz your tummy knows the time cry hunger * Eating right things at right time will enhance the absorption of energy into our system   for Eg: if we eat too much sugars or oily food at nights they  tend to pile up as fat, as our body tends to be more lazy at nights. But the same sugars or oil will help in getting energy for the days work if we eat it in the morning coz our body will be mobile the whole day.   Now some suggestions to Moms too..   * Quit the "clean-plate club." Let kids stop eating when they feel they've had enough. Lots of parents grew up under the clean-plate rule, but that approach doesn't help kids listen to their own bodies when they feel full. When kids notice and respond to feelings of fullness, they're less likely to overeat. * Start them young. Food preferences are developed early in life, so offer variety. Likes and dislikes begin forming even when kids are babies. You may need to serve a new food a few different times for a child to accept it. Don't force a child to eat, but offer a few bites. With older kids, ask them to try one bite. * Rewrite the kids' menu.  Who says kids only want to eat hot dogs, pizza, burgers, and macaroni and cheese? When eating out, let your kids try new foods and they might surprise you with their willingness to experiment. You can start by letting them try a little of whatever you ordered or ordering an appetizer for them to try. * Drink calories count. Soda and other sweetened drinks add extra calories and get in the way of good nutrition. Water and milk are the best drinks for kids. Juice is fine when it's 100%, but kids don't need much of it — 4 to 6 ounces a day is enough for preschoolers. * Put sweets in their place. Occasional sweets are fine, but don't turn dessert into the main reason for eating dinner. When dessert is the prize for eating dinner, kids naturally place more value on the cupcake than the broccoli. Try to stay neutral about foods. * Food is not love Find better ways to say "I love you." When foods are used to reward kids and show affection, they may start using food to cope with stress or other emotions. Offer hugs, praise, and attention instead of food treats. And last but not the least…   * Kids do as you do. Be a role model and eat healthy yourself. When trying to teach good eating habits, try to set the best example possible. Choose nutritious snacks, eat at the table, and don't skip meals. --Pushpa

  పిల్లల నుంచి నేర్చుకోవడానికి మీరు రెడీయేనా ?? "పిల్లల మంచి కోరి, పెద్దలు తమ అనుభవం మీద కొన్ని విషయాలు చెప్తారు, వాటిని పిల్లలు నేర్చుకోవాలి " ఇది మనం ఎప్పటినుంచో వింటున్న మాట. కానీ ఇప్పటి తరానికి  అందులోనూ యుక్త వయస్సులో ఉన్నవారికి అది ఎంతవరకు పనిచేస్తుందో చెప్పలేం. ఎందుకంటే " పెద్ద వారి మాట వినమంటున్నారు సరే తప్పకుండ వింటాం, అలాగే వాళ్ళు మా మాట కూడా అప్పుడప్పుడు వినాలిగా ?అని ఇప్పటి తరం పిల్లలు అడుగుతున్నారు. దీనికి సమాధానం ఏది ? " మీకు అనుభవం లేదు మేం అనుభవమ్మీద  చెప్తున్నామ్", అనేస్తారు కానీ వారి అనుభవం ఎలాంటి పరిస్తితిలో వచ్చింది ? అదే పరిస్థితులు ఇప్పుడు ఉన్నాయా ? అని ఆలోచిస్తే లేవు. ఒక 20 యేళ్ళ క్రితం ఉన్న పరిస్థితుల్లో ఒక్కటన్న ఇప్పుడు ఉందా? ఉద్యోగాల్లో, ఇంట్లో, సమాజంలో ఎన్ని మార్పులు వచ్చేశాయి. మరి వాటి ప్రకారం పెద్దవారు తమని తాము మలచుకున్నారా? అలా ఒకవేళ మారి ఉంటే తరాల మధ్య తలెత్తుతున్న ఈ అంతరాలు వచ్చేవే కాదట. మిగతా బంధాలలో ఎలా ఉన్నా తలితండ్రుల్లో ఇది ఇంకొంచెం పెద్ద ప్రాబ్లంగా ఉంటుందట. ఎందుకంటే, పిల్లల జీవితాలని శాసించే అదికారం ఉందని అనుకోవడం వారికి పరిపాటి కాబట్టి. అందుకే "ఇది చేయండి అది చేయద్దు" అని చెప్పేస్తుంటారు పిల్లలకి. అలా మీరు చెప్పినట్టు  చేస్తే పని కాదు అని ఒక వేళ పిల్లలు చెప్తే ఆ విషయంలో కూడా ఎంతో కొంత నిజం ఉందేమో అని పెద్దవారు ఆలోచించొచ్చుగా? కుదరదు, ఎందుకంటే "పిల్లలకి అనుభవం ఉండదు" ,"మాకు ఎలాగూ చేతులు కాలాయి మీరు ఎందుకు కాల్చుకోవడం" లాంటి మాటలు పుట్టుకొస్తాయి. ఒక సమస్యని పెద్ద వాళ్ళు అప్పటి పరిస్థితి ప్రకారం పరిష్కరిస్తే అదే పద్ధతి ఇప్పటి పరిస్థితికి వర్తిస్తుందా? అంటే అన్నిసార్లు వర్తించదు అని పిల్లలు గోల పెడతారు. అలాంటప్పుడే యుక్త వయస్సులో పిల్లల మాటలు పెద్దవాళ్ళు వినాల్సిన అవసరం వస్తుంది. కానీ వారిదారికి అలాంటప్పుడే అంతర్యుద్ధం మొదలౌతుంది" ఈ పిల్లలు చెప్పిన మాటలు మేం వినాలా? అని" ఏం ?ఎందుకు వినకూడదు? ఇప్పటితరం పిల్లలు సమస్యల మధ్యే పుడుతున్నారు, సమస్యలతో పెరుగుతున్నారు, అలాంటప్పుడు సమస్యని ఎదుర్కోవడంలో వారికి ఉన్న శక్తి పెద్దవారికన్నా ఎక్కువేగా? వారి మాట కొట్టిపారెసే ముందు ఈ ఒక్కసారికి వింటే పోలే అని కాస్త ఆలోచించచ్చుగా. అసలు సమస్య ఏంటంటే పెద్ద వారికి ఇలా చిన్న వారి మాట వినడం లో "అహం "అడ్డు వస్తుంది. మేం పెద్దవాళ్లం అనే అహం, పిల్లల మాట వినాలా? వారి దేగ్గర నేర్చుకోవాలా? అంతకన్నా చిన్నతనం ఉంటుందా ? అన్న అహం. అందుకే ఆ అహం వల్లే ఒకవేళ చిన్నవారు చేస్తున్నది కరెక్ట్ అని తెలిసినా ఒప్పుకోరు. అన్నిసార్లు పిల్లలు కరెక్ట్ కాకపోవచ్చు, పడనివ్వండి.. నేర్చుకొనివ్వండి. అప్పుడు మీరు చెప్పే మాట విలువ వారికి తెలుస్తుంది. మీరు వారి మీద ఉంచే నమ్మకమే వారిని ఆలోచించి మంచి నిర్ణయం తీసుకునేలా చేస్తుంది. మీరే నమ్మకపోతే రేపు ప్రపంచాన్ని ఎలా నమ్మించగలరు వాళ్ళు .? పిల్లల్ని పెంచడం అంటే ఎప్పుడు వారి చేయి పట్టి నడిపించడం కాదు, పడకుండా సంభాళించుకునే నడిచే పద్ధతి నేర్పించడం. మీరు పిల్లల మాట కాస్త వింటే వారి ఆలోచనతో మీరు ఉన్నారని వారికి అనిపిస్తే అప్పుడే వారు ప్రపంచంలో ఎక్కడ ఉన్నా మీ మాట మీదే నడుస్తారు. --Pushpa

  Good Touch and Bad Touch   19th November of every year is observed as “World Day for Prevension of Child Sexual Abuse" On this day, let's talk on how parents can explain their children about Good touch and Bad touch. Every child must be taught that their bodies belong to them and that they can reserve certain parts as ‘Private.’ Even it’s something like holding hands with someone from known or unknown circle or having a friendly hug or kissing them, they must know that they have the right to say NO, if they don’t like it.” When kids are growing, spend time with them as much as you can. When they are small, give them bath on regular basis. Tell them the correct names for their anatomy.  It really helps them to have that knowledge in case they ever need to talk to mothers/ fathers about anything. Opening up a strong communication channel between parents and child is so very important. Explain your kids about “ Good touch and Bad touch”. if someone is touching them in a way they don’t like, the tell that person to “Stop” … then parents should give confidence to kids by saying “come to me/ tell me about it”. Keeping the lines of communication open can help child to be confident about self and it develops comfort zone in them about their private areas which is of UTMOST importance now. every individual should be taught to respect their own body first and it has to start right from childhood.   Taking help of books, reading stories explaining human anatomy and constantly telling about private parts of every individual can give knowledge to kids. Also empower kids to say “NO” when any one is touching or asking to show their private parts. Never stop a child's expression about people around. We should not be forcing children to move around with people who they don't like to have around. Try to go deeper and listen to child on the reason of avoiding certain people. Though we can not define “Good touch” and “Bad touch”, what ever comforts child is good touch and dislikes and disturbs the child is a bad one. As parent, try to simplify things when it comes to kids and tell them that you are there for them come what may.... --Bhavana

  The Dreaded word called PARENTING Off late we have seen young couple postponing the arrival of child into their life, thinking they are not yet ready for "Parenting". In some parts of the world couples are allowed to become parents only after a certain amount of training in "Parenting"This all boils down to one point ,is parenting that hard?? can it be taught ?? Lets take one after the other 1) Is parenting that hard?? Ya, indeed parenting is hard if you feel its a job,yes its hard if you want to take short cuts to parenting,and yes it is hard if you strain yourself in parenting a child. We have to understand that parenting is nothing big, its just, we behaving well with all those around us,being genuine in our thoughts. And not doing anything which we don't like seeing our children do. Eg: Telling lies, bitching around, booze n puffs etc, it as simple as that. If you don't want your child to shout on you, you stop shouting on them or any one around for that matter.If you want your child be upright you be upright first. Be a role model to your child. But in being a role model please dont enact being one, just BE one, coz every child even at the youngest of age knows what is the real behavior and   what is enacted. So be a person what you want your child to be, that's it. 2) Can it be taught?? Yes, to some extent Parenting can be taught. In joint families we used to have elderly people who used to give guidance in such matters. But for the young  the couples now they don't have this luxury.And more over they think that any idea coming from older generations is just old junk thought. So the need of teaching by parenting by professionals arises. But this can be done only till giving advice,acting part has to be done by parents themselves. As we all know,theory and practice are two different things altogether. Finally everyone should understand that Parenting is not a herculean task, take it easy,just chill. You behave correctly and they will follow you on your foot steps. Happy Parenting!!! --Pushpa

తల్లులు... మీ పిల్లల పసితనం ఆచూకీ ఏమన్నా తెలుసా మీకు ?? టైమ్  అయిన్ధి లేస్తావా? ...స్నానం చేశావా? తొందరగా తిను...కానీ బయల్దేరు ...హోం వర్క్ అయింధా ? లేట్ ఔతోంది పడుకో !! ఈ మాటలు ఎక్కడో  విన్నట్టు.. కాధు రోజు అన్నట్టు ఏమన్నా అనిపిస్తోంధా?? ఏ అమ్మ డిక్షనరీ లో ఐనా  మొదటి పజీలో ఉండే పదాలు. వీటి అర్ధం అందరింట్లో ఒక్కటే,పిల్లలు టైమ్ కి అన్నీ చేయాలని. క్రమశిక్షణ గా ఉండాలని ,మంచి పిల్లలు అనిపించుకోవాలని . అన్నీ టైమ్  ప్రకారం చేస్తున్నారు సరే మరి ఎప్పుడైనా టైమ్ ఆఫ్ ఇవ్వాలిగా ?? అది ఎక్కడ ?? ,మీతో మాట్లాడాలని ఉన్న,ఆట్లాడాలని ఉన్న , చివరికి పోట్లాడాలని ఉన్న వారికి మీరిచ్చిన టైమ్ టేబల్ లో సమయం ఎక్కడ కేటాయించారు ?? సాయంత్రం అయ్యేసరికి గుజ్జన గుళ్ళు కట్టుకుని ఆడుకునే  చిన్నతనం ఈ స్కూల్ టైమ్ ల వల్ల ఎప్పుడో మాయం అయిపోయింది. మరి మిగిలిన ఆ కాస్త పసితనాన్ని మీరు మాయం చేస్తున్నారనిపింఛట్లేదా ?? అసలు  తల్లులతో వచ్చిన పెద్ద చిక్కే ఇధి ,అన్నీ టైమ్ ప్రకారం సరిగ్గా జరగాలంటారు. ఒకవేళ జరక్క పోతే అందరూ  మళ్ళీ తమనే తిడతారని, తప్పు పడతారని వారి భయం. నిజమే, పిల్లలు వల్ల ఏం తప్పు జరిగిన మొదట తప్పుపట్టేధి తల్లినే . కానీ ఇలా ఎన్నాళ్లు పక్కవారికోసం చుట్టాలని త్ర్హుప్తి పరచడం కోసం మీ పిల్లల టైమ్ టేబల్ ఫిక్స్ చేస్తారు ?? పసితనం అసలే చిన్నధైపోయి, చిన్నప్పుడే పెద్దవాళ్ళైపోతున్న ఇప్పటి పిల్లలకి తిరిగి చూసుకుంటే పసితనపు గుర్తులేవీ. అందుకే ఎప్పుడూ కాకపోయిన ఎప్పుడో ఒకసారి వారిని రొటీన్ లోనుంచి బయటపడనియ్యండి. మెల్లిగా లేవనివ్వండి, హాయిగా ఆడుకొనివ్వండి, స్కూల్ కి డుమ్మా కొట్టి మీరే సినిమాకి తీసుకెళ్ళండి.. (అప్పుడు మీకు చెప్పకుండా డుమ్మా కొట్టే పనే ఉండధు )పగలకొట్టనివ్వండి, పాడు చెయ్యనియ్యండి . వద్దు అనే ముందు ఎందుకు వద్దో వివరించండి. ఒకవేళ వారు మీ వాదన కాదని వారి మాట చెప్తే, అందులో నిజం ఉంటే, వారి ఆలోచనకి విలువ ఇవ్వండి. అప్పుడు పెద్దయ్యక  కూడా ఈ సంభాషించుకునే ప్రక్రియ కొనసాగుతుంది. లేకపోతే చిన్నప్పుడు మీరు చెప్పింది వింటారు పెద్దయ్యాక వాల్లమాటే నేగ్గెల చేసుకుంటారు. పసితనం మహా అయితే ఒక నాలుగైదేళ్లు ఉంటుంది, వారి జీవితంలోని ఆ కాస్త సమయం వారికిచ్చేయ్యండి ప్లీజ్. మంచి చెడు చెప్పండి, మంచెదో చెడేదో మీరే డిసైడ్ చేసేయకండి. తల్లులకె నా ఇది? తండ్రులకి ఈ మాట వర్తించాదా? అంటే వర్తించదు,.ఎంధుకంటే పిల్లలతో ఎక్కువ కాలం ఉండేడి, వారి జీవితాన్నిగమనాన్ని  నిర్ధారించేది తల్లే కాబట్టి. కనుక ".మా బంగారు తల్లులు... దయచేసి మీ పిల్లల పసితనం ఆచూకీ వారికి చూపించండి "...బాల దినోత్సవ శుభాకాంక్షలు. --Pushpa

  Mothering like Durga maa   Navaratri is such a special occasion to worship goddess Durga in various forms. She being the mother of the human kind knows what is good and what is bad for us. The 9 different avataras of Maa Durga tell us women the meaning of motherhood in many ways *Sailaputri -Daughter of the Himālayas tells us that how ever great we are we should feel the responsibility to manage our children's lives *Brahmacharini -One who observes the state of  penance, tells us that whatever we do as a mother to our children should be nothing less than a penance with all due dedication * Chandraghanta - One who bears the moon in her necklace. Tells us to have a calm and cool attitude  to manage children's erratic behavior  *Kusmanda -the mother of the universe, tells us that even though we are strict to some extent, we should deal with every single problem of our children with a  motherly attitude with all love and concern *Skanda-Mata -The mother of Skanda, Kārttikeya. Tells us that we should raise our children so well that we should be recognized by our children's name not vise versa *Katyayani -The daughter of sage Kātyāyana tells us that what all we are today as a mother is the result of being some one else's daughter so better pass it on to our children *Kalaratri -black as night, destroyer of Kālī. tells us to destroy any vice which comes near our children and keep them safe. *Mahagauri -the wife of Lord Shiva, doing great penance, tells us that how ever busy we are with our children, husband should never become a second priority *Siddhidatri -Provider of Siddhis, giver of mystic powers, tells us that we should empower our children to face the society Navaratri on the whole gives us the essence of Motherhood and parenting. Its our turn to learn it the right way. Happy Dasera!!! --Bhavana

  Neither be Aggressive nor Easy Going   Veena has been suffering from severe ill health since last two weeks and going around doctors and clinics for various tests. When ever she goes out,  if there is any delay in reaching back home, her only worry is what if her 6 year old son misses his daily tuition,  tennis class on Monday, western dance class on Wednesday, keyboard class and abacus classes on rest of the days of week, so on and so forth.... During these days when she couldn't reach home on time, she used to alert her neighbours, friends, co-parents and who not just to ensure that her son reaches the said classes without fail. According to Veena, her son should not waste  even a single day and always increase his learning capacity On the other hand Shanthi, mother of 7 years old boy is so chillax type and not worried whether his son is done with homework or interested in any extracurricular activity or is there any place where he can spend some quality time.. According to Shanthi, he is too small to put in any place. “These two cases are so extreme and differ from each other but neither of the attitude is recommendable” say experts. When kids are small, parents possess lot of trail and error approach by putting them in various activities which will confuse kids and eventually they fail to deliver to the best. Instead, understanding their strengths and weaknesses and proceeding accordingly should be the outlook. When parents do not take initiative steps in finding out the activities which matches child's interests then children will be clueless on building his/her future. On the other hand, children don’t even understand the reason why he/she is unable to venture in to different things on par with his/her peer group.  Parents being too much aggressive may effect child's creativity; similarly, having a laid back or easy going  attitude of parents also will kill the enthusiasm in child. Rather, Striking the balance between these two and knowing child's interests, understanding their capacity, helping kids to set their goals and extending support to achieve them should be the approach of every parent. ----- Bhavana

   Listen To Your Child Communication is all about listening and talking, and this is the key to a healthy connection between patents and children. But parenting is tough work and maintaining a good connection with teens can be challenging, especially when parents are dealing with many other pressures. However parents have to prioritize things and attend kid's needs and concerns. This is all possible when parents know about their children thoroughly. Communication will help a lot to understand your kid. But kids, particularly teenagers wont be open with parents rather parents have to be proactive in establishing strong communication with chilhdren and open up a channel to reach out child's heart. Listening to kids is first step to perfect communication. Here are few tips elp you to lay a path in this direction: Find a time when your kids are most likely to talk, for example, at bedtime, before dinner or in the car when travelling together and make sure that you are available for them. Initiate the conversation, because it lets' your Kids know that you care about what's happening in their lives. At the same time don't be curious, rather build the confidence so that children prefer to share their feelings with you. Find time on weekly basis for a one-on-one activity with each child and that's a fixed date with your child only. Avoid scheduling all other activities during that time.Also, learn about your children's interests as they keep on changing — for example, favorite music, frienfs and activities and show interest in them. Initiate conversations by sharing what you have been thinking about rather than beginning a conversation with a question. When you are listening to them always respond instead of reacting.Never put down their opinions rather try to understand their perceptions. Focus on your child's feelings and be patient while listening to them rather than pumping out your own thoughts during your conversation. Happy parenting!!! ...Bhavana

  Let Your Child Be Aware Of Your Finances As parents, we always want to give the best to our kids. In this process we wouldn't mind loosing all the energy we have but love to see our kids become strengthened in life by all means. In the process of parenting, we try to keep few things away from kids; Financial condition is one such area, every parents wants to free their child from.. In many families, children are not aware of the financial situation of the family, therefore this could become a disconnect between child's demands and parent's deliverable capacity. When kids are small, parents assume that this is too early to share finance related matters with child because they can't understand. For example, if a 10 years child ask for a gadget which is beyond parent' s pocket, instead of explaining the conditions, parents try to fulfill the needs, so will end up with overheads. That point of time, every parent thinks that the pleasure child gets having that gadget in the hand is in much more higher plane than the pain they have to undergo. Since child doesn't know all theses things, yes he will be jumping in joy and his desires will go on increasing as time goes.. When the same child becomes a teenager, they don't want to hear any “no” from parents not just because of their age but also that they were never prepared to take “no”. At that time, even though your financial condition is pinching, you still won't be able to discuss this with child rather find alternate options to get what your child wants.In these two scenarios or many like this, kids never get an opportunity to know what's happening behind the screen and goes on assuming that every thing is all right. Nevertheless, once your kid grows up, and situation demands you to reveal the actuals, they won't be in a position to accept, at the same time they might as well feel awkward that you have kept them dark in all these years... According to the experts, parents can always be transparent with child in all the financial matters and its absolutely OK to discuss your family “balance sheet” with your child. This helps child to manage his/her expenses very well.Very important thing any parent has to remember is being in bad financial state is not a sin. Its a life situation every human being might face one day or the other. When you prepare your child for such upcoming battles of life they will be much bold and handle situations with confidence and courage. ....Bhavana

    Few Parenting Tips From Ganesha Story (vinayaka chavithi special)   Vinayakachavithi , the birthday celebrations of Lord Ganesha are just round the corner and every home, street, city and whole country is planning to celebrate this festival in a grand way. Ganesh Chaturthi is a fun filled one for elders and bring loads of joy and happiness to kids too.. Indeed, this is the festival celebrated inside homes, on streets, shops , anywhere and everywhere. since Lord Vinayaka is also called “Vighnavinashanaaya”, destroyer of all the obstacles, we feel secured and confident about a promising future when he is with us and blessing us during these nine days of celebrations. People sing, dance and play various games during these 9 days and Lord Ganesha gives us an opportunity to become “event manager” to the fullest. If you could connect with Ganesha's story  deeply , there are so many things that all of us can learn. Today, let me talk about Parenting technics from the “Vinayaka jananam”, birth of Lord Ganesha. 1. Ganesha's mother Parvathi Devi created him using her powers but Lord Shiva was not aware of this boy and when he saw a child in his territory, who stopped him entering in to his house, he could not take it but ended the boy's life. In this whole scenario, when Father comes to know about this boy made by his better half he feels bad about his mistake but he never questions his wife about child's existence. Learning point:  when there is any issue with kids or related to child' s life, parents should never ever blame each other but take the ownership and think about child's future. Need of the hour to be addressed instead of raising argument. 2. When, Lord Shiva tells his assistants to bring the head of the first beast they see, they find elephant and bring its head. The same will become face of Lord Ganesha.  According to our Hindu mythology , Elephant face is so very devine and best form to concentrate while on meditation. Learning point: when father does some thing for kids don't go on questioning, vice versa when mother does some thing for her children. Instead, believe that, they are best people who always think for child's welfare. 3. One day Lord Ganesha had a heavy meal  on the eve of his birthday and finds difficult to walk even. Moon whose place is Lord Shiva's head watches Ganesha while he is on a stroll and finds funny therefore starts laughing to the core. Ganesha feels insulted and complaints his mom about this whole episode happened with moon; then immediately she curses him but later gives a relaxation. Learning point: While you are sympathizing with your child or showing empathy towards him/ her that is a wonderful gesture and every parent should do it but not at the cause of public inconvenience. When child is pampered by you, never forget that you are also making a citizen of the country and so be a parent possessing social responsibility. Festivals are part of our life and they are made just to remind us the way we are supposed to be. When we understand the inner goal of this whole celebration they become much more meaningful. Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!!!! _Bhavana

  Timely call   Its so important to take a call at the right time....In parenting there are so many challenges that are time bound. Challenges which create a make or break situations. In such cases we should try to avoid time lapse. because in such situations keeping up with time plays a major role. While the problem itself is a big issue the people around with lot of suggestions will become bigger than it. To face them we some times act hastily. Which will affect their mental growth. Here is the time we should take a call on our own terms. Be it a toddler or a teenager if they have a behavioral issue we should not say" its ok time will change them" cause some times instead of changing for good they may go worse. This issue needs your immediate attention.Then you should realize that "its time to take a call to act immediately " But all problems with kids are not the same all the time. So in contrary to this there will be other problems which need time and patience behind them. There you need to "take a call to wait" If i need to give an example for these child beating other children or getting beaten up can be put in 1st scenario and child not able to concentrate on studies can be put in 2nd. Now that you know when and how to take a call you should also know the related consequence of both of them. The 1st scenario has an instant solution with you taking a call and acting upon, but what happens when u take call to wait? What are we expected to do in that waiting time. This waiting time should be used to search ways and means to address the issue in the right method. As we seen in example if the child is not able to concentrate is it because of eye prob, or any health issue or general dis interest towards studies. then act upon it to get a solution. Last but not the least in Parenting nothing is according to rule, we need to change the rule accordingly.. Happy Parenting..!! Bhavana

Be Your Child's Strength Recently, I met one of my friends who is a doctor by profession and works on Women and child health with loads of passion. While talking to her on kids making fuss about food, she said we have to always establish eye to eye contact with kids and talk to them with the same seriousness as we talk to elders. Not only while eating, but children would love to be treated as elders and eventually they feel “sense o responsibility” if we do so, my doctor friend added. Here are few tips for parents while bringing up kids of six to nine years old: * Talk with your child about respecting others. Encourage them to help people in need. * Help your child set her own achievable goal; this will be good learning and helps to take pride in himself/herself and rely less on approval or reward from others. * Help your child to develop patience while being among elders or of their age. * Do fun things together as a family, such as playing games, reading, and going to events in your community. *  Get involved with your child’s school. Meet the teachers and staff and get to understand their learning goals and how you and the school can work together to help your child do well. *  Continue reading to your child. As your child learns to read, take turns reading to each other. This will be a fun time and bonding act between parents and child. *  Use discipline to guide and protect your child, rather than punishment. *  Praise your child for good behavior. * Encourage your child to join school and community groups, such as a team sports, or to take advantage of volunteer opportunities. This will enhance interpersonal skills in child right from this age. *  Above all, be supportive, extend your shoulder when required. Be their strength. Happy parenting!! Bhavana