MD
Dr. Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri, popularly referred to as ‘The Celebrity Shrink,’ is an award-winning neuro-psychiatrist and mental health advocate with over 15 years experience.She is the medical director and psychiatrist-in-chief at Pinnacle Medical Services. She has created the innovative mental health app in Africa, HOW BODI.Dr. Kadiri is a Goldman Sachs Scholar on Entrepreneurial Management of Pan Atlantic University and a graduate of the China European International Business School, CEIBS on Entrepreneurial Management.She is a trained and certified rational emotive and cognitive behavioral therapist from Albert Ellis Institute, New York, US. Also a certified trauma counsellor, sexual and reproductive health expert, occupational health and safety physician and neurofeedback practitioner.Dr. Kadiri contributes to articles published in magazines and newspapers, is a recognized motivational speaker, executive coach, author, mentor, and a mother of three lovely children
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"Plants give us oxygen for the lungs and for the soul." — Linda Solegato. A famous quote by Linda Solegato goes like this: “Plants give us oxygen for the lungs and for the soul.” Therefore, as parents, it is essential to educate little ones about some fundamental facts about plants for kids to let them know the significance of this important part of the ecosystem. Our planet is home to around 8.7 million species of plants (1). Children of all ages are usually fascinated by plants and are curious to know about evolution and the existence of different plants on Earth. You could encourage their interests and nurture their inquisitive minds by sharing some fun and fascinating facts on plants with them. Read this post to explore some amazing plant facts that are worth sharing with your children. [mj_protip type="Quick fact" title="Quick fact"]The study of plants is called Botany. Scientists who specialize in this field are called botanists or phytologists.[/mj_protip]...
The world of video games provides endless entertainment for children and adults alike. However, parents are often concerned about the ill effects of video games on children, especially if they seem to be addicted to spending long hours in front of the screen. In addition, concerns about developmental problems in children have also been raised in this perspective. Nevertheless, recent studies have shown video games to have a less harmful impact than usually perceived. On the contrary, positive effects on a child's social and cognitive development have been indicated if children play responsibly under parental vigilance. Delve into this post as we tell you about the pros and cons of playing video games. [mj-toc] Are Video Games Good For Kids? Depending on the content and the amount of time spent playing, video games can have positive as well as negative effects on your child. For instance, a study by Hastings (2008) showed that educational video games were associated with good...
Advertisements can have a lasting impact on children. They prompt children to mimic stunts and make them believe in exaggerated product outcomes. If you want to learn about the effects of advertisements on children, this post is for you. Children remember advertisements as they are constantly broadcast in different forms of media literacy such as on television and other media channels. This may lead to various mental and physical complications. In this post, we talk about how advertisements affect your children and how to deal with them. [mj-toc] Negative Effects Of Advertising On Children According to the American Psychological Association, an average child is exposed to more than 40,000 TV commercials a year. Studies also suggest that children can recall the content after a single exposure to a commercial and may express a desire to buy the product (1). Thus, it is imperative to understand the impact of advertising on children. Although the adverse effects of watching advertisements may outweigh...
While some teenagers can get along with their peers or a group, others might struggle to work together in a team. Teen team building activities are a great way to teach your wards the art of teamwork and instill leadership skills in them. There are certain interesting games and activities that can come to your rescue and help teens build interpersonal skills to survive in a group. In this post, we share with you some team-building activities that help teens become team players and build self-awareness and trust. Scroll down. [mj-toc] Benefits of Team Building Activities Here are some positive aspects of team building activities for teens (1) (2) Build relationships: As your teen gets involved in a team-building activity, they learn to interact with different people. This interaction exposes them to the concept of individual perspectives, which is an important part of social skills. Sharpen communication skills: Some teenagers are introverted and struggle to communicate. Team building activities and...
As most babies and toddlers enjoy splashing around the bathtub, it may be a good idea to combine playtime with some interesting water activities for toddlers. These activities can offer various benefits such as releasing their suppressed energy, which may calm them down, reduce stress, help develop motor skills, etc. Read this post as we bring exciting water activities for babies and toddlers. You may pick any of these activities based on your baby’s age and capabilities. [mj-toc] Precautions To Take For Safe Water Play Before jumping into the activities, let\'s look at some safety measures you must follow while allowing your kids to play with or in water. It's better to conduct most water activities outdoors so that there won\'t be any mess inside the house. No matter how simple the water activity is, never leave your kids unattended. Always supervise their activities. Keep the water level low, maximum one or two inches deep. Ensure babies are older than...
Mobile phones have become a necessity for people of all ages. But before giving one to your children, you should be aware of the effects of mobile phones on kids. Phones have become a boon and a bane to society. They help us stay connected to people living far away from us and give us access to a world of opportunities. But on the other hand, addiction to phones can cause severe eye strain and impact their well-being (1). So, if you are thinking of giving your child a mobile phone, we suggest you wait for a little longer. Read on as we state the facts about the effects that mobile phones have on children and suggest ways to reduce their exposure to the phones. The graph shows the percentage of parents who think it is acceptable for their children to have a smartphone at a given age. While 4% of parents think it is unacceptable for children to have...
Communication works for those who work at it. - John Powell Communication skills for kids can have a significant influence on their personalities. According to psychological studies, parents, families, and educators need to be sensitive to children's communication abilities during their early childhood years (1). As a result, parental involvement in their children's communication development is critical. In this post, we share some tips and tricks on improving a child's communication abilities with the help of fun-filled and interactive techniques. But before that, we will tell you about the importance of communication skills for kids, the essential skills they need, and tips to improve communication. [mj-toc] Importance Of Communication Skills For Children Effective communication skills are as important for children as they are for adults. Yet, for children, the importance of these skills is preeminent because of the following reasons. Helps them express their ideas, feelings, and thoughts with clarity. Facilitates articulation and better learning. This is an important achievement...
The influence of parenting on children is huge and impacts how children conduct themselves. For example, maintaining a pleasant atmosphere at home could help nurture a confident child. On the other hand, a child who is anxious and nervous all the time may often be exposed to their outrageous parental behavior. Hence it is important to understand that your lifestyle practices and disputes with your partner could largely impact your child’s overall development and outlook towards relationships in life. Children look up to their parents for guidance. Proper parental and discipline could lead to the right upbringing of a child by instilling the values and teaching correct behavior. Altogether, positive parenting and upbringing could achieve positive development of a child, while bad parenting can affect a child’s esteem, mental health, and social life. Read this post to explore the important aspects and consequences of positive and negative parenting on children. [mj_protip type="Experts say" title="Experts say"]Numerous studies indicate that parents who...
Dyslexia in teenagers is often challenging to recognize since its signs are usually mistaken as laziness or mischievousness of adolescence. The teen may have trouble doing simple learning skills such as reading or identifying sounds, easily done otherwise. Dyslexia is considered an impairment of visual processing, spatial understanding, and poor phonological processing skills; however some cases of dyslexia may not be related to phonological aspects (the way words sound). The International Dyslexia Association defines dyslexia as the difficulties with decoding abilities, poor spelling, and issues with fluent word recognition (1). Some may show signs of dyslexia in the first year of life, and it may go unnoticed. The dyslexia signs may vary with age. Therefore parental awareness plays a crucial role in seeking early medical attention. Although it is a lifelong condition, early educational and tailored interventions, and therapies can enhance the quality of life (2). Read on to know the causes, signs, diagnosis, and ways to cope with dyslexia...
Stress in babies can be observed from the earliest months of life. Although we attribute stress to older children and adults, babies are more vulnerable to stress. Regular events such as bathing can also cause certain levels of stress response in babies. They can also be stressed from physical conditions such as illnesses. Babies also respond to emotions from the environment and parents. Therefore stressful parents or the environment can also lead to stress in little ones. However, studies found that a strong bond with parents and their attention can help reduce stress hormone levels in babies (1). Read on to learn more about the causes, signs, and ways to prevent stress in infants. [mj-toc] Why Is Stress Dangerous For Babies? Stress in babies can have long-lasting negative effects. Stress experienced during early childhood, particularly due to developmental trauma and neurodevelopmental factors, can have a significant impact on a baby's brain development. Firstly, exposure to chronic stress negatively impacts the...
Since its inception, baseball has been an iconic sport in the American culture. If you want to know the best baseball movies for kids, you are at the right place. Whether it’s parents playing a game of catch with their children or seasonal baseball games in schools packed with excited parents, baseball has always had a special place in most American families. American cinema has reflected this love towards baseball through several movies that reflect the spirit of the sport. Read on as we present a list of some of the best movies in this genre that your kids will have fun watching. [mj-toc] 20 Baseball Movies For Kids 1. Everyone’s Hero (Suitable for all ages) [caption id="attachment_1091799" align="alignnone" width="720"] IDT Entertainment/IMDb[/caption] It is an animated film that involves the theft of legendary sportsman Babe Ruth’s bat (voiced by Whoopi Goldberg) and a young boy’s journey to recover it and return it in time to save the 1932 World Series....
It is not advisable to confine your little one to the four walls of your home. Outdoor activities for toddlers are known to keep them physically active while boosting their walking skills and exploring their curiosity. They are also known to develop their physical, cognitive, and socialization skills (1). Here are some interesting outdoor activities that we recommend for your little ones to keep themselves active and happy. Read on to check them out. [mj-toc] 25 Outdoor Activities And Games For Toddlers These activities will keep the little one busy and also help in their physical, cognitive, and social development. 1. Playing hopscotch [caption id="attachment_430371" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You will need: Colored chalk How to: Draw a hopscotch grid on solid ground using chalk. Number each grid according to its position or add any random number. The toddler can jump to a grid of his choice, but to make this a learning activity, instruct your child to jump on...
When you realize that your little one is four-months-old, it is obvious that they show eagerness to learn and explore the world. Activities for a 4-month-old baby can help foster rapid development as they transition from newborn to infant. This is the time when you engage and play with your child for as long as possible. If you are wondering how you can begin to engage with them, read our post. We give you a list of interesting learning activities you can do with your little one. [mj-toc] Developments At Four Months The fourth month is an interesting milestone. It heralds many new developments for the baby. Cognitive development: Your little munchkin can distinguish shades of orange and red. Bright colors seem to captivate her, and she looks at objects in awe. Her brain development is faster than before. It depends on her discoveries, interests, experiences, and perspectives of the world. If you think it is just too much for...
In today's digitized world, each generation appears to be becoming more tech-savvy, with even toddlers using phones with ease. So, here are some iPad apps for toddlers to help you choose the right one. Even if you try to keep toddlers away from electronic devices, they will find a method to play their favorite games or apps by scrolling down the screen. Thus, the best thing you can do is provide them with apps that are educational, engaging, entertaining, and child-friendly. According to new research, iPads offer three unique features that can improve children's early education (1). With many applications available, you won't have any trouble coming up with new approaches to teach your toddler. You can install effective learning apps and turn your device into a cutting-edge teaching tool for toddlers. If you're not sure what fun apps to get for your toddler, you can go through our list of high-quality apps to choose a suitable one. [mj-toc] Top...
Knowing how to get your toddler to listen can make it easier for many parents and caregivers to manage difficult moments due to toddlers\' tantrums. It is common for toddlers to show behavioral outbursts such as defiance, mood swings, aggression, and screaming. These all are signs of the healthy development of your little one\'s brain. A baby becomes more aware of surroundings when they reach toddlerhood and often desires independence, expresses emotions, exhibits defiant behavior, and often imitates others (1) (2). Therefore, it is normal for a toddler to run or crawl around without listening to the instructions. Several of the toddler\'s behaviors are driven by impulses, wants, and needs rather than logic and reasons. Therefore, it is essential to guide and encourage them to follow basic instructions. Read on to learn about reasons and tips for getting your toddler to listen to your instructions. [mj-toc]Why Does A Two-Year-Old Not Listen? Although it is normal for toddlers to ignore your...
Onlooker play is one of the six different stages of children\'s participation in play, as Dr. Mildred Parten Newhall described. Onlooker play is characterized by the child being more engrossed in watching others play instead of participating themselves. You may encourage your child to play with others, but they refuse to participate and prefer only to watch. They have fun observing others play, It is not unusual for parents to worry about their child losing interest in interacting with peers as they do not show interest in joining them for the play. Read this post to learn what onlooker play is and how it impacts children’s development as we explain in more depth with the help of some examples. [mj-toc] Does this scenario seem familiar to you? If yes, you may have just witnessed an episode of onlooker play. You might worry that your child is losing interest in social interactions because they are not actively involved in the play....
Family is a vital element of an individual’s life; hence, it is important to be aware of one’s roots. If you want to acquaint your child with their ancestry, try introducing them to a family tree for kids. A family tree is a visual representation depicting one’s ancestry and family relationships in a tree-like format (1). This way, children find it easier to comprehend family associations. You could represent all your near ones, including your grandparents, uncles, and cousins, as different branches of the tree and position them according to their year of birth. You could even include some interesting facts about them, which could be an engaging way to familiarize your child with the family ancestry. Browse through this post to discover some fun ways to make a family tree that your kids love and easily understand. [mj-toc] How Does A Family Tree Benefit A Child? A family tree is a way to illustrate family details in a concise...
Magic tricks with cards can fascinate children. However, a card trick requires thorough preparation and speed of hand. If your child is curious about learning magic tricks, we bring you some tricks in this post. They are easy and require no props other than the cards. Besides entertaining, these tricks can help your little ones improve their memory, creativity, and astuteness. All you need to learn these tricks is a deck of cards and a curious audience. So keep reading for some easy and engaging card tricks that will bring out the magician in your child. [mj-toc] 1. Is this your card? [caption id="attachment_881647" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Have an audience member shuffle the entire deck of cards. Fan the entire deck with face-up cards to show the full deck is mixed. Flip the deck of the cards, face down, and memorize the card at the bottom. Ask the audience member to split the full deck into two and keep...
Everyone gets excited about a birthday party and wants to make it memorable. However, the event should be more than just cutting cakes, exchanging gifts, and adorning the area with balloons. If you are looking for some birthday party themes for girls, our post can give you some ideas. The decoration is an indispensable part of every celebration. So, to make your birthday party stand out from others and give it a unique touch, you need to come up with a cool birthday theme. A great theme can elevate the overall mood of the party and make it even more exciting. Here we list down some birthday party ideas for girls to make your big day even special. However, you may improvise the theme based on your likes and interests. [mj-toc] Easy Color Themes For Birthday Parties 1. Pretty in pink [caption id="attachment_673150" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Does your baby girl love pink? Whip up a pink birthday party that...
For a child’s overall development, a balance of everything is required, which includes their outdoor playtime. The benefits of outdoor play for kids are numerous, from better health, developing social skills, being a team player to becoming independent. Continue reading this post as we explain the importance and advantages of outdoor play in your kids. Thus, ensuring that your child receives some outside playtime in the midst of their busy schedule of school, homework, and screen time. [mj-toc] Importance Of Outdoor Play For Kids [caption id="attachment_891389" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Outdoor play encourages young children to exercise their bodies and minds. It engages all the senses and keeps them physically and mentally healthy. Here are a few reasons why you should encourage outdoor play in children. Enables them to do moderate-intensity exercises Cuts down sedentary time and a plethora of health problems associated with it Improves cognitive performance Elevates their mood Helps develop fine and gross motor skills Encourages exploration...
Extracurricular activities for kids could promote self-reliance, social skills, and self-esteem in them and aid in learning life skills outside the classroom (1). These informal learning techniques may include athletics, social volunteering, theater clubs, internships, etc. It is common for many people to choose their careers based on these skills in later life. Read on to know interesting extracurricular activities that will keep your kids engaged. However, do not force them to participate in activities they are not interested in. [mj-toc] Benefits Of Extracurricular Activities For Children Extra-curricular activities help boost skills vital for the psychological and socioemotional development of a child. They also help in (2): Reducing screen time due to free time management by learning new skills. Improving academic performance by boosting brain functions. Alleviating boredom, stress, and pressure by providing an opportunity to make new friends with similar interests. Learning the value of optimum utilization of tangible and intangible resources, such as time and money. Developing resilience,...
Most kids cherish every moment of their birthday parties. Be it cakes, gifts, birthday bumps, friends, or fun games during the celebrations. Why not make it uber exciting by sharing some birthday jokes for kids. You may also add jokes on birthday decorations and presents to make it more fun and lively. Read on for some fun birthday jokes for kids and keep a camera handy to capture their smiles. [mj-toc] 110 Birthday Jokes For Kids 1. What do cakes and baseball teams have in common? They both need a good batter. 2. What goes up but never comes down? Your age 3. What does every birthday end with? The letter Y 4. Why did the girl put her cake in the freezer? She wanted to ice it. [caption id="attachment_879178" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] 5. Why did the cupcake go to the doctor's office? It was feeling crumbly. 6. What is the one thing you are guaranteed every year on...
Spending some quality time daily with your children is important for many reasons, including their overall development. So try engaging your children in conversations through fun games such as never-have-i-ever questions for kids. Although this is a classic game adults indulge in while drinking, you may customize it to fit your young player’s age. Including some age-appropriate questions and fun twists could make this game an instant hit among children. It’s also a great game for a sleepover party that is sure to fill the room with fun, cheers, and laughter and help the children bond. Keep reading as we share a list of funny and entertaining never-have-I-ever questions along with simple game rules for kids. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/true-or-false-questions-for-kids-answers_00695346/" title="150 Funny True Or False Questions For Kids, With Answers"] [mj-toc] How To Play the Never-Have-I-Ever Game? Never have I ever is a classic drinking game for adults. It is a group game in which players take turns asking a set of...
Children learn everything from their surroundings. So, teaching table manners for kids is a continuous process that should start in their formative years. Table manners should be routine in every household to see and learn them at a young age. Simple things, such as saying “please” and “thank you,” sitting properly, and waiting for everyone to be served, are easy for a child to observe and follow. So make an effort to explain to your child why table manners are important. Let them know why certain things are done in a specific way and what is right and wrong. Also, they are supposed to behave and be quiet when having food. Here we discuss why you should teach children table manners at a younger age and bring you some basic table manners that are easy to teach. [mj-toc] Why Should Children Learn Table Manners? Children are not born with manners. Manners have to be inculcated in them over time. Children...
As a busy parent, you may find yourself in situations where you have to leave your children alone at home. Since finding a babysitter is not always a viable option, you could leave your older child in charge. However, one question most parents ask while considering is at what age can a child stay home alone with a sibling? According to the American Academy Of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 40% of children have been home alone at some point. Although this is a common situation, parents often find themselves stressed about their child’s safety, especially if it is their first time on their own (1). Preparing your older child to be in charge by informing them who to contact if they feel unsafe and reminding them not to open the door for strangers can help you and them feel more at ease. Read this article to learn about the factors to consider when allowing an older sibling to babysit, how...
Depending on the underlying cause, memory loss could last for a short time or may last longer or even for a lifetime (in extremely rare cases). While there are some chances of developing short-term memory loss in teenagers, long-term memory loss is uncommon since it is caused by medical illnesses, such as dementia and [simple_tooltip text="Alzheimer's" tooltip="A brain disorder that gradually causes memory, thinking, learning, and organizing skills to decline " ] disease, which usually affect the older population. This problem is common as we get older, but it may also be a problem among teens for many reasons (1) (2). Continue reading this post to know the various causes of short-term memory loss in adolescents and how to deal with them. [mj-toc] What Is Short-Term Memory Loss? Skipping minor details is normal. But if your teenager is often having a hard time remembering recent events and important information, they may be dealing with what is called short-term memory loss...
Whether your relationship is in the nascent stage or you’ve been together for a long time, it’s always fun to ask your special someone interesting questions or personal questions to get to know them on a deeper level. Rather than asking your ideal partner random questions, you can turn your date night into something you can cherish. And one great way of achieving that is by playing the simple yet freaky 21 questions game. Read on as we tell you the basic rules of the game and give you different types of interesting questions you could use or take inspiration from to draft your own questions. [mj-toc] How To Play The 21 Questions Game? As the name suggests, the 21 questions game is a game wherein a person asks 21 different questions that revolve around just about any topic, opinion, dislike, like, or life choice. The perfect questions that you ask depend on the relationship you share with the other...
It can be challenging to keep your children entertained at times. In such situations, age-specific activities, such as activities for 10-year-olds, can be beneficial. If you have a 10-year-old child, you know they are going through a transformation phase. They no longer find games for younger children appealing, yet they are not old enough to enjoy activities designed for older children. However, they are also enthusiastic and want to try different activities. Introducing children to new and exciting activities can also assist them in reaching their developmental goals and keep them occupied. This post brings you a collection of activities to motivate your child to try and practice daily. [mj-toc] 28 Activities And Games For 10-year-olds Educational and Learning Activities Keep your ten-year-old engrossed through learning activities that exercise cognitive abilities and are also fun at the same time. 1. UNO [caption id="attachment_635312" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The classic game lets your child understand different strategies, thereby improving their critical...
Three-year-olds are very active and keep parents and other family members on their toes all the time. Interesting activities for three-year-olds can help parents channelize their energy in the right direction. While their concentration span increases with age, they may be more restless to satiate their curiosity to explore new things. No number of toys or games can hold a three-year-old’s interest for very long. So to keep them engaged in a particular activity for more than just a few minutes, it is inevitable for parents and caregivers to come up with meaningful activities that would cater to their preferences and interests. Read this post where we bring some amusing and educational indoor as well as outdoor activities that keep your three-year-old engaged. [mj-toc] 35+ Activities For Three-Year-Olds Arts And Crafts To Improve Creativity Art and craft activities are said to improve children\'s cognitive abilities as they enable them to use multiple areas of the brain. Using both their hands...
Kids make everything in the house lively. They love dreaming and making every family member happy with their innocent acts. A cute smile from them can work magic and eliminate stress. To make these little beings burst into laughter, share these animal jokes for kids with them. These animal jokes will make them laugh and liven up the environment. Children love hearing fantasy stories. These jokes on birds, fish, or mammals will take them to a magical world of laughter they will enjoy. They will love sitting close to you and chuckle at every funny joke. Animal jokes for kids are entertaining and can increase their knowledge about different animals. Also, with lots of laughter comes good health and a glowing face. So read on. [mj-toc] 180 Funny Animal Jokes For Kids 1. Why did the witch’s team lose the baseball match? Because all of their bats flew away 2. Can a kangaroo leap higher than the Empire State Building?...
Watching a toddler refuse to follow orders and argue with adults can make parents self-doubt. But having a defiant toddler doesn’t always mean you are raising your toddler wrong. Instead, it is these changes in toddlerhood that you need to understand. Toddlerhood is when a child experiences the charm of autonomy for the first time. Simultaneously, they undergo many physical and socioemotional changes that they can’t even comprehend. It is due to a mix of these that often sparks defiance, which is mostly temporary. However, if your child shows signs of chronic defiance, the problem may be something else. Read on to learn why a toddler turns defiant, tips to manage it, and when defiance in toddlers is a concern. [mj-toc] Is Toddler Defiance A Phase? Yes, defiance in toddlers is often momentary and occurs during a phase in early childhood. According to experts, defiance, resistance, and stubbornness in toddlers may mostly become prominent from the age of two years...
Many parents look for activities for eight-year-olds since the children may not show interest in the activities they liked before. Usually, most children begin to show independence, understand their place globally, and pay attention to friends and teamwork around the age of eight (1). You may upgrade their activities and games to match their developing mental skills. Keeping them engaged in age-appropriate activities can be beneficial for [simple_tooltip text="cognitive development" tooltip="Development of a child’s intellectual abilities, including information processing, problem-solving, and decision-making" ]. Read on to know an array of activities that help in the overall development of your eight-year-old. [mj-toc] 30 Games And Activities For Eight-Year-Olds Educational And Learning Activities Educational and learning activities make learning enjoyable and develop the abilities to deal with failure, build resilience, and support creativity (2). 1. Letter talk The fun-filled activity helps boost your child\'s vocabulary and hone their spelling skills. Write a word on the whiteboard and ask your child to write...
The effects of superheroes on children are significant. Superheroes are powerful, [simple_tooltip text="costume-clad" tooltip="Adorned in attire corresponding to a time, place, or social status" ] fictional characters who protect the world from evil. Children are often captivated by these fictional characters because of their supernatural abilities. They may develop a strong bond with their favorite superheroes and relate to their actions and habits. Hence, young children are frequently seen [simple_tooltip text="imitating" tooltip="To behave in a similar way to someone or something or to copy the speech or behavior of someone" ] and being affected by their favorite superheroes. It is important to take an active interest in learning about your child’s favorite superheroes since they play an important part in their development (1). This post will assist you in comprehending the role of these superheroes in molding the lives of children. [mj-toc] What Do Superheroes Do? Superheroes are powerful and inspiring fictional entities who fight for justice and protect the...
Hair-pulling in babies is a common but unpleasant behavior that can potentially affect them. Babies mostly do this for harmless reasons or out of habit. However, when a baby pulls their own hair, it could signal an underlying condition. Moreover, long-term hair-pulling behavior could result in excessive hair loss, causing permanent damage in certain situations. Understanding why a baby pulls their hair could help you recognize if it’s a cause for concern. In this post, we discuss the numerous reasons for hair-pulling behavior in children, how to deal with the problem, and when to seek medical help. [mj-toc] Why Do Babies Pull Their Hair? Below are some of the reasons why a baby may pull their hair. Self-soothing mechanism: A baby may pull their hair to calm themselves during situations they find stressful or whenever they feel an urge to soothe themselves for no specific reasons. You may notice your little one pull their hair when they experience anxiety, such...
Hallucinations in children can be a part of normal development and often resolve without complications. These are sensory experiences without real stimuli. Children may tell you about something that they see, hear, smell, taste, or feel that is not present. Hallucinations can be pleasant or unpleasant and may interfere with the child\'s normal functioning. Some children may experience hallucinations due to the early onset of psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, or non-psychotic illnesses, such as high fever. Although most childhood hallucinations can be transient, it is recommended to seek medical attention. Read on to know the prevalence, causes, types, and treatments of hallucination in children. [mj-toc]Are Childhood Hallucinations Common? [caption id="attachment_890071" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Recent data shows that hallucinatory experiences are common in children but more so in adults (1). A study published by the Cambridge University Press (2018) stated an increased prevalence rate of around 13–17% among children between ages nine and 12 and a...
Cooperative games for kids help teach them the importance of teamwork and patience. Children can play co-op games with their friends or family members. The main objective of these games is not ‘winning’ but teaching them ways to work together towards achieving a common goal. These games also help develop your child’s communication, deduction, and planning skills. Read on for a curated list of cooperative games we have listed in this post for children of all ages to have a fun learning experience. [mj-toc]20 Cooperative Games For Kids 1. Tower building [caption id="attachment_702720" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Tower building is a cooperative game for kids that can be played by adults too. It teaches teamwork and develops your preschooler’s counting skills. Children as young as three years can play this game effortlessly. Age group: 3 years and up You will need: A pair of dice Blocks How to play: Make teams of two. If your child is young, pair them...
Children’s tantrums and anger fits are part and parcel of their lives for parents. But dealing with rebellious kids can be one of the most stressful routines. In addition, as your child is growing, they will go through different stages of development and experience various emotional, intellectual, and physical changes. While it may be rewarding and exciting to watch them grow into independent young adults, it can cause them to act out of impulse and rebel often over simple matters. They may start to be disrespectful or break the set rules. It is best to avoid yelling and punishing and focus on the triggers. This post will help you know the reasons behind your child’s rebellious behavior and what to do about it. [mj-toc]Reasons For Rebellious Behavior In Children Don’t let your child’s rebellious behavior distress you. Instead, learn the reason behind their behavior and address it in the right way. Here are some possible reasons your child acts defiant...
Reading games for kids is an interesting way to enhance your child’s ability to focus. A child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development is promoted by reading skills. Usually, most kids acquire this fundamental skill between six and seven. However, a few may learn it earlier, at three to four years (1). Vocabulary and comprehension skills can be high in children who read from early childhood. These skills are needed for academic and professional success and personal development in the future. Read on to know more about the reading games that will entertain and also educate your kids. [mj-toc]Importance Of Reading For Children Reading is an essential life skill that can help your child (2) (3) Learn and practice diction and intonation and promote speech development. Learn new words and their meanings, and use them in different scenarios. Understand the basics of grammar and promote language development. Improve their concentration and focus and enhance their overall brain function necessary for cognitive...
A disobedient child may go against your wishes and use defiance to control a situation. Defiance is a common issue that the parents of many children and adolescents experience. However, dealing with a child\'s emotions during their growing years is not easy. Disobedient children may often throw temper tantrums and show aggression. Although this developmental behavior is common in children, it is important to correct them. The first step to resolving this issue is to analyze the triggers for such behaviors and then bring positive changes accordingly. This post deals with the causes of disobedience in children and how to deal with them. [mj-toc]Causes Of Disobedience There could be various reasons behind a child’s disobedience. Instead of aggressively dealing with it, you should understand the main cause to discipline the child correctly. 1. Refusals and disagreements [caption id="attachment_877473" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] If you do not allow your child to do anything and say ‘no’ most of the time, it...
At a time when parents are concerned about sedentary lifestyles, rock climbing for kids could be a useful fitness activity for them. Climbing a rock (hill or mountain) with only your hands, legs, and a safety rope connected through a body harness is called rock climbing. Even in 200 BC, the practice was fashionable in China, and it has long been a popular pastime in Europe. In this post, let's dig into different types of rock climbing, their benefits, and safety advice before introducing your children to the sport. [mj-toc]What Are The Types Of Rock Climbing? Kids' rock climbing can be an indoor or an outdoor activity. There are various types involved in both the activities. Some of them are: 1. Indoor Rock Climbing: It is usually done on artificially built rock structures and allows you to climb in all weather conditions and at any time of the day. Indoors are used as a means to improve one's climbing skills...
Kindness is the most beautiful trait anyone can have. A few kind words and deeds can have a big impact on someone else's life. Teaching a few kindness quotes for kids can help them understand the meaning of compassion and empathy while adding value to their moral education. When your child grasps the meaning of kindness and uses it to inspire others, they contribute to making the world a better place. Here is a compilation of kindness quotes in this post to help children be compassionate and empathize with others. Encourage them to pass on these quotes to their friends as well. [mj-toc]150 Quotes On Kindness For Kids 1. “For attractive lips, speak words of kindness. For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people. For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry. For beautiful hair, let a child run his fingers through it once a day. For poise, walk with the knowledge you’ll never walk alone.” —...
Adolescence begins at the age of twelve for some, and this period signals a significant change in a child\'s behavior and overall personality. You\'ll observe a distinct personality, specialized hobbies, and improved cognitive ability. Encouraging them to try different activities for 12-year-olds (tweens) can assist them in meeting their developmental needs. It is also important that you give attention to your child at this age. This post covers some fascinating and fun activities for tweens to help them with their physical, mental, and socio-emotional development. [mj-toc]Activities for 12-year-old Children Here are some enjoyable and entertaining activities that your 12-year-old child can indulge in with friends and family. 1. Make a comic book [caption id="attachment_634652" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Creative writing requires imagination. Involving your pre-teen in creative-writing activities can hone their cognitive abilities and promote out-of-the-box thinking. Choosing a theme, writing dialogues, and preparing visuals can encourage them to plan, organize, and present ideas. This productive, self-expressing activity can also...
Teenage is the most exciting phase of one's life. As children enter their teens, they experience a sense of responsibility and freedom. Thoughtful birthday wishes for teenagers can express your advice and knowledge as they begin their journey to adulthood. A teenager's birthday can bring tons of excitement and joy for the adults-to-be. Make their day extra special and pick some of these fun birthday quotes for your teen to celebrate. We've listed wishes for both boys and girls for you to pick the one that best suits your vibe. [mj-toc]150+ Birthday Quotes For Teens It’s your birthday, but I’m the one who received a gift. And that gift is you. Enjoy your birthday, sweetie! Today is your day; don’t forget to smile like the sun is shining. Happy b’day, my dear child! The teenage years are probably one of the best times in a person’s life. All the fun you get to have is priceless! I truly hope that...
Children receive numerous opportunities to learn about the world as they get older. However, they also regularly encounter problems, whether it is peer pressure, difficult arithmetic calculations, or disagreements with their peers. The benefits of problem-solving skills for kids are numerous and can help them effectively deal with such situations. They will learn to find practical solutions independently without relying on an adult. Further, when they encounter difficulties, they will be more confident in their ability to employ their problem-solving skills and develop innovative solutions on their own. Read this post to know the importance of problem-solving abilities for children, how to inculcate this skill in them, and for some exercises to help them develop this essential skill. [mj-toc]Importance Of Problem-Solving Skills For Kids Problem-solving benefits children in numerous ways. It helps them Cope with challenges in everyday life. Make effective decisions. Pick up other skills, such as cooperation, critical thinking, and collaboration along the way. Resolve problems without breaking...
When you say, “why my dad is my hero,” you are trying to sum up the love, admiration, and respect you have for your fathers. Your dad is your caretaker, protector, one who has been with you through all thicks and thins. He was a friend, a guide, a philosopher who taught you some of the best lessons of your life. A father is a magnanimous figure we all idolize and get inspired from. He is the one who always wants to see you happy no matter what he goes through. Therefore, every dad is a superhero, and he deserves to know how much you adore and value him. Read this post to know some of the most important reasons why we say, “why my dad is my hero.” 15 Reasons Why “My Dad Is My Hero” He works hard to provide the best: A father works hard for several hours to provide the child with the best, from a...
While parenting was majorly a mother’s domain in yesteryears, it is not the case now. Modern-day fathers play an equal role and take tips on preparing for fatherhood. Even they want the best for their child and go through an emotional ride along with the mother. Parenting is equally emotional and overwhelming for a father-to-be as he will also experience major changes in his life. Fathers may have some apprehensions about taking care of their newborns and how well they can shoulder the responsibilities. Even they have to learn new things as they prepare to welcome their newborn. Read this post to get some practical tips on the father\'s journey. [mj-toc]21 Tips For Preparing For Fatherhood Preparing for fatherhood is a continuous process. You cannot learn it in a day. However, if you are willing to learn with an open mind, it is much easier than you thought. 1. Spend quality time with your partner [caption id="attachment_873882" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image:...
Autism or autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are developmental disorders that include various conditions affecting social interactions and behavioral skills in a child (1) (2). Autism in a 3-year-old could significantly impact the development of these skills. As per the World Health Organization reports, one in 160 children in the world has ASD (3). There is no single, well-known cause of autism, and it might occur due to various environmental and genetic factors. However, you may notice signs of this condition in your child by the age of two or three years. Although there is no known cure for autism, the condition can be effectively managed with techniques designed to enhance the quality of the child's life. Explore more about the symptoms, diagnosis, and management options for autism in a three-year-old. [mj-toc]Signs And Symptoms Of Autism In A Three-year-old [caption id="attachment_887020" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies could display early signs of autism before their...