Child & Parental Guide

Silhouette of a mother lifting her child at a sunset beach, capturing warmth and love.

मोठी होतात मुलं, तशी आई मोठी व्हावी

“मोठी होतात मुलं, तशी आई मोठी व्हावी”.आईनी मोठं व्हावं ? आईनी कसं मोठं व्हावं ? आज मातृदिना निमित्त सांगताहेत. डॉ. अनिल मोकाशी. “एकटी एकटी घाबरलीस ना” गाण्यात चिंटू म्हणतो, ‘मोठी होतात मुलं, आई मोठी होत नाही’. ते गाण्यात गोड वाटतं. पण प्रत्यक्षात मुलांबरोबर आईलाही मोठं व्हावंच लागतं. “मोठी होतात मुलं, तशी आई मोठी व्हावी”. हे त्रिकालाबाधित सत्य आहे. लहान बाळाची, शाळेतल्या मुलाची, वयात येणा-या मुलांची, तरुण मुलांची, मोठा माणूस झाल्यानंतर, आईला वयाप्रमाणे वेगळे वागावेच लागते. ही बदलाची प्रक्रिया सुरळीत ठेवणे, यात तर खरं आईचं कौशल्य आहे. बाळाच्या पहिल्या श्वासापासून आईच्या  शेवटच्या श्वासापर्यंत हे ‘आईपण’ अव्याहत अबाधित रहातं. आईचं दूध, बाल संगोपन, याही पलीकडे, त्याला घडवणं हे आईच्या जन्मभराच्या साथीनेच होतं. जिजाउंनी छत्रपती शिवाजी घडवले, हीराबेन यांनी साधेपणात, शिस्तीत नरेंद्र मोदी घडवले. काळ कुठलाही असो, ‘संस्कार’ देणे, जीवनाला उद्दिष्ट देणे, क्षमता देणे, हे आईचेच कर्तव्य असते. आई होणं नैसर्गिक असलं तरी ‘बालपणाचे विज्ञान’  आणी ‘आईपणाची कला’ शिकायलाच हवी. मूल वाढतं, परिस्थितीही सतत बदलते. आजच्या आईला ‘श्यामची आई’ होऊन कसे चालेल? १. नवजात बाळ १०० % पूर्ण आईवर अवलंबून असतं. आई किंवा आईसारखी दुसरी कुणीतरी, २४ तास, ड्युटीवर हवीच. तिच्या नुसत्या असण्याने, दिसण्याने, नजरेने, स्पर्शाने, आवाजाने, वासाने, हाताळण्याने बाळाला जग सापडतं. आईची सोबत बाळाला भावना शिकवते. आईच्या हातात आपण सुरक्षित आहोत हे त्याला समजते. हे काम तिला शिकूनच घ्यावे लागते. २. दुडू दुडू चालण्याच्या वयात बाळाचं कुतूहल जागं होतं. घरातले शिक्षण चालू होते. मुलं चालतात, बोलतात, ऐकतात, पहातात, अनुकरण करतात. प्रश्न विचारतात. आई मुलाचा आरसा बनते. त्याला चालू द्यावे, पळू द्यावे, चढू द्यावे, बोलू द्यावे. स्वतःच्या हाताने खाऊ द्यावे. भरवू नये. लहान बाळ मोठं करण्याची हौस भागली नाही म्हणून त्याला मोठं होऊच द्यायचं नाही. असं करून कसं चालेल. त्याचं त्याला समजू दे, ‘आता आपण मोठं झालो आहे’. आणि आता आपल्याला मोठ्या मुलांसारखं वागायला हवे. लहान बाळासारखं वागून चालणार नाही. दुस-या वाढदिवसाला बाळ आईपासून सुटं व्हायला हवं. लळालोंबा नको. हे काम तिला शिकून घ्यावेच लागते. ३. शालेय वयात घराबाहेरील जगात प्रवेश होतो. घराबाहेरचे शिक्षण चालू होते. शाळा, मित्र, शिक्षक, पुस्तकं, बाहेरचं, त्याचं स्वतःचं, जग निर्माण होतं. आणि तो त्याच्या स्वतःच्या जगात शिकू लागतो. शिवाजी रायगडावर, द-याखो-यात घडतो. पु. लं. देशपांडे बटाटयाच्या चाळीत घडतो. आर.के. नारायणन मालगुडीतच घडतो. पण या सगळ्या घडण्याला आईची साथ आवश्यक असते. साथ. आधार. मार्गदर्शन. हे चांगल्या सवयी लावण्याचं वय आहे. सवयी काय, लावाल तशा लागतात. चांगल्या लावल्या, चांगल्या लागतात. वाईट लावल्या वाईट लागतात. वेळेचं भान शिकवावं लागतं. वेळापत्रक फक्त शाळेचंच नसतं. घरचंही वेळापत्रक असतं. आणि आईने ते पाळायची सवय लावावी लागते. ‘मेरी मर्जी’ नही चलेगी. हे कधीतरी स्पष्टपणे सांगावं लागतं. मुलांची वाढ, मानसिक, भावनिक, बौद्धिक, शैक्षणिक विकास, आहार, लसीकरण, आजारात काळजी या गोष्टी तिला शिकून घ्याव्याच लागतात. ४. किशोरवयात मुलाची स्वतःची ओळख निर्माण व्हायला लागते. आयुष्याचा हा टप्पा सगळ्यात खडतर, सगळ्यात महत्त्वाचा असतो. शरीर, भावना, विचार, मैत्री — सारं काही ढवळून निघतं. या काळात आईनी हुकूमशहा बनून कसे चालेल? तिला संवाद साधण्याची कला आत्मसात करावी लागेल. मुलाच्या कलाकलाने घेऊन, त्याला बोलते करणे महत्वाचे असते. तुम्ही त्याला बोलायला शिकवलत, आता त्याचं ऐकायला शिका. सूर तक्रारीचा, हटकायचा नको, समजावण्याचा हवा. मोठं होणं म्हणजे जबाबदार होणं. स्वतःची स्वतः, कुटुंबाची, शेजार पाजारची, समाजाची, टप्प्या टप्प्याने वाढती जबाबदारी शिकवायला हवी. त्याच्यावर जबाबदारी टाकायला हवी. त्याच्यावर विश्वास आहे हे दाखवायला हवे. थोडं मोकळंही सोडायला हवं. पतंगाच्या मांजाला किती ढील द्यायची आणी किती ओढ द्यायची याचं तारतम्य शिकायला हवं. कला आहे ती. ५. तरुणपणाचे पंख फुटल्यावर. तो आपली वाट चालणारच ना? लक्ष ठेवावे. गरज असेल तेंव्हा साथ द्यावी. आधार द्यावा. धीर द्यावा. व्यसने, वाईट संगत अशा धोक्यांची जाणीव करून द्यावी. दिवस पाळीचे मित्र मैत्रिणी त्याचे त्यानी निवडावे. मात्र रात्रपाळीचे मित्र मैत्रिणी चालणार नाहीत. या कौटुंबिक मर्यादा, लक्ष॒मणरेषा आखून द्यायला हव्या. त्या निक्षून पाळायला लावाव्या. आपले मत मांडावे. पण हस्तक्षेप टाळावा. तूच आहेस तुझ्या जीवनाचा शिल्पकार. मी आहे तुझ्या पाठीशी. असा पवित्रा असावा. हे सगळे या वयाच्या आईला शिकून घ्यावे लागेल. ६. मध्यमवय आणि वृद्धावस्थेतील  मुलाच्या आईला जरा लवचिक भूमिका घ्यावी लागणार. मुलाला मुलं असतील. तरी त्याच्या आईचाही रोल असतोच ना?  मूक निरीक्षक व्हावे. संयम बाळगावा. अनुभव अवश्य सांगावा. पण अंमलाचा आग्रह नसावा. हेही शिकून घ्यायला हवे. असा असतो आईचा रोल, काळाच्या ओघात बदलणारा. फुलपाखराच्या जशा अंडी, अळी, कोष आणी फुलपाखरू अशा अवस्था असतात, तशा मानवी जीवनाच्या देखील वयानुसार अवस्था असतात. कोणत्याही अवस्थेत प्रेम असतं तसंच राहतं, पण त्याची अभिव्यक्ती मात्र बदलायला हवी. आई कोणतीच परिपूर्ण नसते. पण नेहमीच साथीला असते. प्रत्येक युगात, प्रत्येक घरात, आणि प्रत्येक मुलाच्या मनात, आईसारखं दुसरं कोणीच नसतं. म्हणून तर मी म्हणतो, मोठी होतात मुलं, तशी आई मोठी व्हावी. बेस्ट लक. मदर्स डे च्या शुभेच्छा. – विद्यावाचस्पति डॉ. अनिल मोकाशी (बालरोगतज्ञ)एमबीबीएस, एमडी, डीसीएच, एफआयएपी,पीएचडी (मुलांची वाढ व विकास)

मोठी होतात मुलं, तशी आई मोठी व्हावी Read Post »

School report card

School Progress Card – शाळेच्या प्रगती पुस्तकाचा अर्थ

It’s school result season. Annual progress cards are coming home. Both parents and teachers must learn to interpret them correctly. This is not just about marks — it’s about understanding the child. Scientific evaluation helps families take timely, appropriate action. शाळांचे निकाल लागण्याचे दिवस आहेत. प्रगती पुस्तके घरी येऊ लागली आहेत. पालक आणि शिक्षकांनी या प्रगती पुस्तकांचा योग्य अर्थ समजावून घ्यायला हवा. हे फक्त मिळालेल्या गुणांचेच नाही, तर मुलाच्या सर्वांगीण विकासाचे परीक्षण आहे. असे वैज्ञानिक मूल्यांकन केल्याने योग्य वेळी योग्य उपाययोजना करता येतात. Always above 80% in all subjects. Indicates Cognitive excellence. Indicates strong memory, attention span, and a well-rounded cognitive profile. He will learn anyway. He will learn well. He will learn independently. सर्वच विषयांमध्ये सातत्याने उच्च गुण मिळणे. नेहमीच सर्व विषयात ८० % वर.बौद्धिक क्षमता दाखवते. स्मरणशक्ती, लक्ष केंद्रित करण्याची क्षमता आणि समतोल बौद्धिक विकास होतो आहे असे दाखवते. कसाही शिकेल. छान शिकेल. स्वतःहून शिकेल. Indicates Language Skills. Shows verbal intelligence, reading strength, and creativity. Difficulty in abstract reasoning or numerical logic. He needs further understanding efforts and study. भाषिक क्षमता चांगली आहे. कल्पकता आहे. पण अमूर्त, अस्तित्वात नसलेल्या संकल्पना व गणितामध्ये अडचणी आहेत. या क्षेत्रात अभ्यास, प्रयत्नाची व समज येण्याची गरज आहे. वाचून लिहून शिकेल. Sensory-Motor (five senses and movements) are good. & Spatial Skills are good. Reflects strengths in coordination, visual intelligence, and fine motor skills. he understands picture language better. Bring books with lot of pictures. Bring audio books. He will learn better by hearing and seeing. संवेदी-मोटर (पंचेंद्रिये व हालचाली) छान आहेत. जागा, अवकाश याची समज चांगली आहे. सुक्ष्म हालचाली, सौंदर्यदृष्टी व दृश्य समज छान आहेत. याला चित्रांची भाषा जास्त चांगली समजते. सचित्र पुस्तके वापरा.ओडीओ पुस्तके वापरा. तो ऐकून शिकेल. बघून शिकेल. Indicates emotional status. His behavior and discipline needs attention. May suggest emotional ups and downs, home stress, or variable motivation.The child may prefer doing nothing, rather than risk being scolded for mistakes. भावनिक स्थिती जरा अस्थिर असेल. वर्तणूक, शिस्त याकडे लक्ष द्यायला हवे. भावनिक उलथापालथ, घरचा, शाळेचा, बाहेरचा ताणतणाव. काहीही कृती करायची इच्छाच नसणे. काहीतरी करून बोलणी खाण्यापेक्षा काहीच करायचे नाही. म्हणजे कुणी बारीक सारीक चुकांसाठी रागावण्याचा प्रश्नच उरत नाही. The difficulty may lie within the child.Learning difficulties. Reading, writing difficulties. Indicates learning disability, attention deficit, or a mismatch in teaching style. If I can not learn the way you teach, teach me the way I learn. समस्या मुलात असण्याची शक्यता जास्त. शिकण्यात अडचणी. वाचन दोष. लेखन दोष. शिक्षण शैलीतील विसंगती, विचलित होणे. तुम्ही शिकवता, ते मला समजत नसेल, तर मला समजेल, असं तुम्ही शिकवा ना. He may have Practical Intelligence. Shows real-world understanding and communication skills. May struggle with rote memory or time pressure. A tortoise is not expected to run with a hare. He will learn better by doing things. Vocational education suits him. त्याला प्रात्यक्षिक बुध्दी चांगली असेल. व्यवहारज्ञान व संवादकौशल्य चांगले, पण पाठांतर व वेळेचे गणित जुळवण्यात अडचण असू शकते. कासवाने सशाच्या गतीने कसे पळावे? तो “करून शिकणारा”” मुलगा असेल. त्याला “व्यवसाय शिक्षण” जास्त उपयुक्त ठरेल. He may have good Social & Emotional Intelligence. Indicates leadership, empathy, and peer acceptance. Watch for future team-based strengths. Team games suit him. He may have many friends. His company needs to be observed. त्याची सामाजिक कौशल्ये व भावनिक बुद्धिमत्ता चांगली असू शकते. नेतृत्व, सहवेदना (empathy) आणि मित्रांशी, सहकार्यांशी जुळवून घेणार. सांघिक खेळ जास्त उपयुक्त ठरतील. भरपूर मित्र असणार. संगत चांगली असण्याकडे लक्ष ठेवायला हवे. Problem may be with “Executive Functioning”. That means “Thoughtful action skills”.Indicates difficulty in task planning, sequencing, or self-monitoring. May need structured support. “विचारपूर्वक वागण्याची क्षमता” (कार्यकारी कौशल्ये) कमी असू शकते. कामाचे नियोजन, कामाचे टप्पे, पायर्या, क्रम ठरवता न येणे. कामाचे स्वतःचे मूल्यमापन यामध्ये अडचण असू शकते. That means he has “Growth Potential”. Shows brain adaptability, new motivation, or successful teaching match, good teacher, good friend. Something good is happening in his life. That is helping him learn better. Find it out. It is important. त्याच्यात पुढे जाण्याची क्षमता आहे. मेंदूची लवचिकता, नवीन प्रेरणा किंवा योग्य अध्यापन शैली, चांगला शिक्षक, चांगला मित्र. त्याच्या आयुष्यात काहीतरी चांगले घडते आहे. त्यामुळे तो चांगला शिकत आहे. शोधून काढा. महत्वाचे आहे ते. He has a problem of Under stimulation. So he has Missed Potential. Boring, educational environment. Problem may be in school, family or society. Could indicate lack of challenge, low expectations, or hidden giftedness. चेतनारहित, निर्जीव, कंटाळवाणे शैक्षणिक वातावरण. शाळेत, घरात, समाजात काहीतरी गडबड आहे. त्याच्या क्षमतेला संधीच मिळाली नाही. आव्हानाची कमतरता, स्व-अपेक्षा कमी किंवा दडलेली हुशारी सुचवते. A child’s progress card is not just a report — it’s a window into his learning journey. Let’s read it with care, compassion, and curiosity. Best luck. प्रगती पुस्तक म्हणजे फक्त गुणांचे तक्ते नाहीत — ते मुलाच्या शैक्षणिक प्रवासाची झलक आहेत. त्यामुळे त्याचा अर्थ समजून, प्रेमाने व विचारपूर्वक मार्ग काढू या. शुभेच्छा. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

School Progress Card – शाळेच्या प्रगती पुस्तकाचा अर्थ Read Post »

Vaccination

Is the Vaccine Safe? लस सुरक्षित आहे का?

Ask only those who truly know. Vaccines prevent serious infectious diseases. Vaccination is the best, scientific way to build immunity. Some people worry about side effects. Some resist or refuse vaccines. Many trust government vaccines but doubt optional ones.Remember: Optional does not mean unimportant or unnecessary. Decide based on: What protects your child best, and What you can afford. Parents need up-to-date, accurate information. Trust your pediatrician and scientific bodies like the Indian Academy of Pediatrics. Do not rely on rumors, neighborhood advice, or half-knowledge. Vaccines undergo strict testing for safety and effectiveness. Vaccines are life-saving gifts of science. They create a strong shield against dangerous microbes. Protect your child.Trust science. Choose vaccination. हा प्रश्न फक्त माहीतगारालाच विचारा. सध्या अनेक आया शाळेमध्ये जेई लस देऊन घेऊ का असा प्रश्न विचारतात. जरूर देऊन घ्या असे स्पष्ट सांगितले तरी काही लोकांच्या मनात शंका राहतातच. त्याची उत्तर असे आहे. आजार परवडला कि लस ? खर तर लस परवडते. टाळता येण्याजोगा प्रत्येक आजार टाळायलाच हवा. लसी गंभीर संसर्गजन्य रोग टाळतात. लसीकरण हा प्रतिकारक शक्ती वाढवण्याचा सर्वोत्तम, वैज्ञानिक पुराव्यानिशी सिद्ध झालेला मार्ग आहे. काही लोकांना लसींच्या दुष्परिणामांची काळजी वाटते. काहीजण घाबरून, किंवा विनाकारणही, हट्टीपणाने विरोध करतात. लस घ्यायला स्पष्ट नकार देतात. बरेच जण सरकारी लसींवर विश्वास ठेवतात. पण सरकार न देणाऱ्या ऐच्छिक लसींवर शंका घेतात. ऐच्छिक लसी अनावश्यक नाहीत. आपल्या बाळाच्या हिताचा निर्णय घ्यावा. आपल्याला परवडते की नाही हे बघावे. परवडत असूनही पटले नाही म्हणून टाळू नये. तो मुलावर अन्याय आहे. सरकार पूर्ण देशाला फुकट द्यायला परवडेल एवढ्याच लसी देते. सगळ्या लसी देत नाही. सरकारचे निर्णय देशहिताच्या दृष्टीने घेतलेले असतात. एकेका बाळाच्या हिताच्या दृष्टीने नाही. सरकार देत नसेल त्या लसी खाजगीतून घ्या. मूल तुमचे खाजगी आहे. सरकारी नाही. माहितगाराच्या सल्ल्याने लसिकरणाचा निर्णय घ्या. सरकारी आरोग्य कर्मचारी माहितगार नसतात. सर्व नर्सेस, सर्व डॉक्टर माहितगार नसतात. सर्व आज्या, शेजारिणी माहितगार नसतात. पालकांना अद्ययावत, अचूक माहिती असणे गरजेचे आहे. तुमच्या बालरोगतज्ञांवर आणि इंडियन अकादमी ऑफ पेडियाट्रिक्स सारख्या वैज्ञानिक संस्थांवर विश्वास ठेवा. अफवा, ऐकीव बातम्यावर विश्वास ठेवू नका. शेजारीण, वडीलधारे प्रेमाचे असतील पण माहितगार नसतात. लसी सुरक्षित आहेत की नाही, परिणामकारक आहेत की नाही हे तपासण्यासाठी लसींच्या कठोर चाचण्या घेतल्या जातात. लस ही विज्ञानाची जीवरक्षक देणगी आहे. आधुनिक लसी ही विज्ञानाची फळे आहेत. लसी म्हणजे धोकादायक सूक्ष्म जंतूंविरुद्ध लढाईसाठी एक मजबूत संरक्षक ढाल आहे. विश्वास विज्ञानावर ठेवा. लसीकरण निवडा. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

Is the Vaccine Safe? लस सुरक्षित आहे का? Read Post »

Indian Thali

The Power of a Pinch: Micronutrients and Child’s Immunity

Micronutrients and Immunity. We eat macronutrients with our hands—rice, chapati, dal, curry.We eat micronutrients with a pinch—chutneys, koshimbir, pickles.Our body needs only small amounts of micronutrients, so they are called “micro” nutrients. But their impact is not small—especially when it comes to immunity. Understanding the link between micronutrients and immunity makes a big difference. Parents who know this have healthy children. Those who don’t, often have sick ones.That’s why the right knowledge matters. If you want the right information, go to someone who knows. But the expert can’t visit every home—you must seek the knowledge yourself. The expert isn’t in need. You are. Your child’s health and nutrition are your responsibility. Good nutrition leads to good immunity. Malnourished children fall sick often—cough, cold, fever again and again. Each viral infection triggers the body to build new immunity, specific to that virus.As children grow older, they fall sick less often because their immune system gets stronger. But with every infection, immunity temporarily drops. If the child falls sick too often, their overall immunity stays low. This creates a vicious cycle:Malnutrition causes infection, infection worsens malnutrition.Fever, cough, cold, vomiting, diarrhoea—once these symptoms are gone, we say the illness is over.But that doesn’t mean the child has fully recovered. Only when the child gains back the weight lost during illness can we say the child is well. Parents and doctors must understand the difference between illness recovery and child’s recovery.The convalescence phase—the recovery period—is often ignored.During recovery: Feed small meals more often – hunger is low, but the body’s needs are high. Add more oil, ghee, butter – these give more calories in less volume. Keep one extra meal daily until the lost weight is regained. The most scientific and effective way to boost immunity is vaccination. Vaccines help the body produce measurable immunity (antibodies). Every vaccine-preventable disease must be prevented. Which is cheaper—getting the disease or taking the vaccine? Obviously, the vaccine is cheaper and safer. Vaccines exist for measles, mumps, rubella, chickenpox, rotavirus, polio, DPT, pneumococcal, Japanese encephalitis, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, meningococcal, and flu.Take the flu vaccine every year—it protects against that year’s strain, as decided by WHO. COVID-19 taught us to trust vaccines and science. Even children from well-fed families can be micronutrient deficient.They may not look undernourished but may still be stunted or frequently ill. This happens because their diet is not balanced. A balanced meal includes: Rice + Dal + Chapati + Vegetables + Sprouted Pulses + Fruits + Curd. Farmers buy micronutrients for their crops to grow better, but forget their own children need them too. They often just don’t know! Micronutrient deficiency is a silent but major health issue. Fruits and vegetables are the body’s natural disease-fighting foods. They are protective foods. They are rich in vitamins and minerals. Choose varied vegetables and fruits—different types, different colors—this ensures a mix of all micronutrients. For strong immunity, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Zinc are especially important.Taking extra vitamins doesn’t give more immunity. But a deficiency definitely reduces immunity! Cooking and Nutrient Loss Cooking reduces the availability of nutrients in vegetables:Whole & raw: 100%Chopped: 80%Stir-fried: 60%Boiled: 40%Deep-fried: 20% Fruits:Whole fruit: First-class (fiber-rich)Fruit juice: Second-class (no fiber)Packaged fruit drink: Third-class (just sugar, water, flavor, color)Bring Back the Tradition of Chutneys and Koshimbiris. Chutneys made from sesame, peanuts, flaxseeds, karale, dry fruits are rich in micronutrients. Just like iodized salt or fluoridated toothpaste, chutneys too can be fortified with micronutrients.Koshimbir, raitas were once a part of daily meals. That was our tradition.Now, they’re only served during festivals or for guests. We must bring back these traditions—for the sake of our children’s health and immunity. Time for a Movement Mothers, wake up! Be Micronutrient Aware. Teach your children healthy food habits. It’s your responsibility—and yours alone. Best wishes. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

The Power of a Pinch: Micronutrients and Child’s Immunity Read Post »

child showing stubbornness while a parent handles the situation calmly.

Understanding and Managing Stubbornness in Children

#28 Stubbornness in children is a common developmental behavior that often leaves parents feeling frustrated and helpless. However, it is not a flaw in the child but a natural part of growing up. It emerges when children begin to assert their independence, usually between ages 2 to 4. This phase is crucial as it helps them develop a sense of autonomy. Why Do Children Become Stubborn? The primary reason for stubborn behavior is not the child’s personality but the environment they are raised in. Parents and caregivers unknowingly teach children how to be stubborn through their reactions. Every time a child’s tantrum results in them getting what they want, they learn that stubbornness works. Thus, faulty parenting, inconsistent discipline, or excessive pampering can reinforce this behavior. How Does Stubbornness Manifest? A stubborn child might:✅ Refuse to eat certain foods✅ Resist bedtime or daily routines✅ Show reluctance to share or follow instructions✅ Insist on doing things their own way, regardless of logic What Doesn’t Work? ❌ Shouting, yelling, or punishing – These methods only escalate the situation.❌ Physical abuse – This not only damages the child emotionally but worsens stubbornness.❌ Engaging in power struggles – The more resistance a child faces, the stronger their defiance becomes. What Actually Works? ✅ A firm, calm “No” – Children need clear and consistent boundaries.✅ Breaking the situation – Change the subject, place, or people involved to distract the child.✅ Avoid reasoning in the heat of the moment – A stubborn child is beyond reasoning when in the middle of a tantrum. Address the behavior later, not during the meltdown.✅ Stay calm and composed – Your reaction determines their reaction. If you stay cool, their stubbornness will decrease. If you boil up, it will intensify. The Golden Rule for Parents 👉 Your child’s stubbornness is a reflection of your reaction.👉 If you get angry, they become more stubborn.👉 If you stay calm, they gradually stop being stubborn. Parenting is not about controlling children but about guiding them. Understand them, remain patient, and model the behavior you want to see. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

Understanding and Managing Stubbornness in Children Read Post »

Poster Set For Parents

Poster Set for Parents

– विद्यावाचस्पति डॉ. अनिल मोकाशी (बालरोगतज्ञ)एमबीबीएस, एमडी, डीसीएच, एफआयएपी,पीएचडी (मुलांची वाढ व विकास)

Poster Set for Parents Read Post »

Vaccination

आजार परवडला की लस? खरं तर लस परवडते!

टाळता येण्याजोगा प्रत्येक आजार टाळायलाच हवा. लसीकरण हे आजच्या काळातील सर्वात प्रभावी आणि विज्ञानाधारित उपाय आहे. मात्र, आधुनिक लसींविषयी अनेक गैरसमज आणि अफवा पसरवल्या जातात. या गैरसमजांना बाजूला सारून, लसीकरणाचे महत्त्व समजावून घेणे ही प्रत्येक पालकाची जबाबदारी आहे. आधुनिक लसी म्हणजे काय? आधुनिक लसी म्हणजे केवळ एक फॅड किंवा डॉक्टर व कंपन्यांचा धंदा नाहीत. त्या विज्ञानाच्या दीर्घकालीन संशोधनातून तयार झालेल्या फळांपैकी एक आहेत. जशा आपण मोटरसायकल, मोबाईल, टीव्ही, आणि कॉम्प्यूटरसारख्या तंत्रज्ञानाचा स्वीकार केला आहे, तसेच आधुनिक लसींचाही स्वीकार केला पाहिजे. लसीकरणाबाबतचे महत्त्वाचे मुद्दे सरकारी लसी आणि खाजगी लसी सरकारकडून फक्त अत्यावश्यक आणि परवडणाऱ्या काहीच लसी दिल्या जातात. मात्र, आपल्या बाळासाठी योग्य त्या सर्व लसी मिळवणे ही आपली जबाबदारी आहे. सरकारी सुविधांबरोबरच खाजगी डॉक्टरांचा सल्ला घेऊन लसीकरणाचे नियोजन करा. माहिती आणि सल्ल्याची गरज सर्व नर्स, सरकारी कर्मचारी किंवा अगदी प्रत्येक डॉक्टर देखील लसींबाबत तितके जाणकार नसू शकतात. म्हणूनच जाणकार बालरोगतज्ज्ञांचा सल्ला घेऊन योग्य लसीकरण सुनिश्चित करा. बाळाचे भविष्य आपल्या हाती “मूल तुमचं खाजगी आहे, सरकारी नाही.” म्हणून सरकारी योजना पुरेशा नसतील तर खाजगीरित्या लसीकरण पूर्ण करा. आज लसीकरणाच्या माध्यमातून आपण अनेक गंभीर आजारांपासून आपल्या बाळाचे संरक्षण करू शकतो. टीप: या ब्लॉगचा उद्देश लसीकरणाविषयी जागरूकता निर्माण करणे हा आहे. तुमच्या बाळाच्या लसीकरणासाठी नेहमी विश्वासार्ह तज्ज्ञांचा सल्ला घ्या. – विद्यावाचस्पति डॉ. अनिल मोकाशी (बालरोगतज्ञ)एमबीबीएस, एमडी, डीसीएच, एफआयएपी,पीएचडी (मुलांची वाढ व विकास)

आजार परवडला की लस? खरं तर लस परवडते! Read Post »

Childhood Stress

Recognizing Stress in Children – From Newborns to School Age

#16 When we think of childhood, we imagine a carefree time full of happiness and play. As adults, it’s easy to overlook that children experience their own kinds of stress—even babies have their own challenges. Just like adults, children’s stress responses are unique to their age and environment. Recognizing these signs and understanding the root of their worries helps us support them as they navigate these emotions. Stress in Newborns and Babies: An Early Start to Anxiety Yes, it’s true—even babies experience stress. Though they can’t express it in words, they feel anxiety due to various factors, like separation from their mother, overstimulation, hunger, or discomfort. Newborns are deeply sensitive to their surroundings and can even sense tension or stress from their caregivers. Since they cannot communicate through language, crying becomes their way of expressing these feelings. Creating a predictable and soothing environment with consistent routines, gentle touch, and calm surroundings can work wonders for a baby’s sense of safety. It may surprise you, but babies have a keen awareness of the world around them. They respond to the security and calm provided by those closest to them. Everyday Stressors for Toddlers and Preschoolers As children grow, their concerns shift along with their age. Toddlers and preschoolers often feel stress around separation from their parents or primary caregivers, particularly in new settings or at the beginning of school. Additionally, exposure to loud sounds, chaotic environments, or constant change can leave them feeling overstimulated or uneasy. It’s important for caregivers to recognize that what may seem insignificant to an adult can be overwhelming for a young child. Acknowledge their feelings, provide calm reassurance, and help them ease into new situations at their own pace. Small steps like talking them through the day’s plan or letting them know you’ll be there soon can help make a difference. Older Children: Stress in the School Years For older children, especially school-aged kids, stress takes on a new form. Academic pressures, the desire to fit in with peers, or a busy schedule of extracurricular activities can contribute to their stress. If a child’s schedule becomes too packed, they may start to show signs of burnout. Some children might complain of feeling “too busy” or may begin resisting certain activities. At home, they may show more signs of frustration, defiance, or become more withdrawn. It’s also worth noting that kids pick up on adult stress. They notice conversations about work, financial struggles, or family conflicts. Even news stories they see on TV about accidents or disasters can make them worry about safety. Providing a calm, stable atmosphere and a reliable routine at home can offer significant support. Recognizing and acknowledging a child’s stress is the first step toward helping them cope. A little attention and reassurance go a long way in helping children manage these complex feelings. In my next post, we’ll talk about ways to help children cope with stress in a healthy and effective way. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

Recognizing Stress in Children – From Newborns to School Age Read Post »

Autism and the Role of the Mother

Autism and the Role of the Mother (Part 2)

#15 Building on the previous discussion, here we address additional aspects of raising a child with autism and the mother’s role in fostering development. To further help an autistic child, here are more important points to consider: 1. Social Interaction and Play Social interaction is difficult for children with autism, but it is essential. Encouraging play with siblings or peers and teaching them to take turns is a valuable way to build social skills. Autistic children may prefer solitary or repetitive play, but structured play with clear rules can promote social engagement. Isolating the child is not helpful—exposure to social settings and social skill training can help increase their ability to interact with others. 2. Handling Sensory Challenges Autistic children may be hypersensitive or under-sensitive to sensory inputs such as light, sound, or touch. Mothers need to observe their child’s sensory preferences and create an environment that minimizes discomfort. Measures such as reducing noise, dimming lights, or using weighted blankets can help the child cope with sensory overload and reduce meltdowns. 3. Taking Help from Doctors and Specialists Both the mother and child need support from professionals. Autism requires management, not treatment. Good handling of problems leads to positive outcomes, while poor handling can create abnormal behaviors. Early intervention services, speech and occupational therapies, and social skills training from experts can greatly help the child. Mothers should learn from these professionals and cooperate fully to ensure the best possible support for their child. 4. Self-Care for Mothers Raising an autistic child is physically and emotionally demanding. Mothers need to take care of their mental health. Joining support groups with other mothers in similar situations can provide emotional support and advice. Celebrating small milestones and recognizing progress will help maintain a positive mindset. Mothers should prioritize their own well-being as much as their child’s. 5. Preparing for the Future While it’s important to focus on the present, mothers should also prepare for what comes next. As the child grows, their needs will change, and they will require new skills to become more independent. Teaching them daily living skills and fostering independence should start early to help them navigate the future more effectively. Autism is a lifelong journey, and the mother plays a pivotal role in her child’s development. With love, patience, and support from family and professionals, mothers can help their autistic child thrive. Understanding the unique needs of the child and providing them with a stable, loving environment will enhance their quality of life and ensure they reach their full potential. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

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Autism

Autism and the Role of the Mother (Part 1)

Mother matters most. Especially for an autistic child. She is the primary support system for her child’s development and well-being. It is essential for a mother to understand what autism is, what difficulties she can expect, and how she can best support not only her child but her entire family. When I say “mother,” I include the father and the whole family, as the role extends beyond just the mother. To make understanding autism more straightforward, it helps to answer these important questions: 1. What is Autism? Autism is a complex neurological and developmental disorder. It affects families around the world, regardless of caste, race, wealth, or education. Autism is no one’s fault—it occurs randomly. This condition affects communication, behavior, and social interactions. It’s called a “spectrum” disorder because it affects individuals in varying degrees. Autism is not a disease, but a disorder. It means that something in normal functioning is disrupted. Unlike diseases, autism cannot be cured; it is a lifelong condition. 2. How to Know if Your Child May Have Autism Signs that may indicate autism include delayed speech, lack of eye contact, repetitive behaviors, and difficulty understanding social cues. Autistic children often think in images rather than language. They may seem more attached to objects than to people and may appear detached from those around them. Autism is diagnosed through behavioral observations, as there is no specific lab test for it. 3. Strengths and Challenges of an Autistic Child An autistic child may have unique strengths, such as being very detail-oriented or having a high degree of expertise in certain areas. However, they may also face significant challenges, such as sensory sensitivities or difficulty understanding social situations. 4. How Can a Mother Help Her Autistic Child? First and foremost, accept that your child is autistic. Do not hide it—acknowledge and embrace it. “Jaisa hai, waisa hai, mera hai pyara hai” (As they are, they are mine, and I love them) is the best attitude. Mothers need to act in their child’s best interest, understanding and responding to their special needs while seeking help from those experienced in autism care. 5. How to Handle the Child’s Mind and Emotions Both the child and the mother are at risk of emotional strain. Autistic children often struggle to express their feelings or control their emotions. Mothers need to create a stable and loving environment where the child feels safe. With the right support, behavioral and psychiatric issues can be minimized or avoided. 6. How to Manage Communication Difficulties Focus on your child’s strengths and build upon them. Find out what they are good at and enjoy doing. Encourage communication through picture books, mobile apps, and other tools that help strengthen listening and verbal skills. Practice facial expressions and body language to aid in non-verbal communication. 7. Developing Predictable Daily Schedules Children with autism benefit from a structured routine. Having a fixed daily schedule gives them a sense of security and reduces anxiety. However, they also need to learn how to handle changes in routine. Gradual changes, visual schedules, and slower transitions can help them cope with disruptions. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

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baby, crying, child

Management of a Crying Baby

Understanding Your Baby’s Cry All babies cry—some more, some less. It’s their natural way of telling you something. Crying is their language, their means of communication, and while it can be worrying, it’s important to remember: crying is healthy. It’s a normal activity and exercise for the baby, and it doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Often, it simply signals that the baby needs help or comfort. Decoding the Cries Understanding why your baby is crying can make a big difference in how you respond. You will gradually learn what your baby’s specific cries mean. Initially, every cry may sound the same, but over time, you’ll become familiar with the subtle differences. After a few weeks of closely listening and responding, you’ll have a better understanding of what your baby is trying to communicate. Why Do Babies Cry? There are many reasons why a baby might cry. Some common causes include: What to Do When Your Baby Cries Responding quickly to your baby’s cries is essential. Meeting your baby’s needs promptly does not spoil her; in fact, it can reduce how often and how intensely she cries. The longer a baby cries, the harder it becomes to calm her. Here are some helpful steps: Try any of the following methods to soothe your baby: Coping with Frustration Endless crying and high-pitched shrieks can be nerve-wracking. When nothing seems to work, it’s easy to feel helpless or frustrated. However, it’s crucial not to lose control. Never shake a baby in frustration. If you feel overwhelmed: When to See a Doctor If your baby shows any of the following signs, seek medical attention: Final Thoughts Caring for a crying baby can be one of the biggest challenges for new parents. However, don’t worry. Your baby’s cries have special meaning, and learning to understand them is part of being a parent. Babies cry for a reason—it’s their first attempt to communicate with you. Stay calm and patient, knowing that crying is part of your baby’s healthy development. By understanding and responding to your baby’s cries, you help build a strong, trusting bond. Prevent stress—for both you and your baby—and always manage your emotions to avoid potential frustration. Together, you’ll navigate these early days with confidence and love. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD(Child Growth and Development)

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Teacher Asking a Question to the Class

School Safety: Are We Leaving Our Children to Fate?

#10 Accidents in schools can often be prevented. However, when they do occur, it’s crucial to handle them systematically. The safety of children within school premises is ultimately the responsibility of the school management. Yet, when everyone is considered responsible, it can lead to a situation where, effectively, nobody feels accountable. That’s why responsibility needs to be assigned to specific individuals. Designating a Child Safety Officer Every school should appoint a “Child Safety Officer” from among the teaching staff. This person should be well-versed in safety rules and management protocols. They would not only lead their own team but also work alongside the Principal, class teachers, and student monitors to foster a culture of safety. Together, they can organize child safety and first aid training sessions for teachers, parents, and students. Ensuring Safe Handovers and Monitoring At the school gate, a responsible staff member should oversee the handover of students to their guardians. It’s essential to verify the identity of the person picking up the child and to document any suspicious activities. This includes collecting information about taxi and auto drivers, such as their names, addresses, and phone numbers. For school buses, strict adherence to safety rules is non-negotiable. Visibility and Preparedness While on school premises, children should always be within the line of sight of responsible adults. A first aid kit should be readily available at a designated spot. Any incidents should be documented thoroughly, including detailed descriptions and signatures from witnesses. Furthermore, a notice board should display emergency contact numbers for the Child Safety Officer, Principal, administration, doctors, ambulances, fire stations, and police. In the case of a medical emergency, having a nearby doctor on call, along with a written agreement regarding fees and consent from parents for treatment, is essential. Addressing Child Abuse and Safety Issues Child abuse is a serious issue that requires a proactive and planned approach. This involves identification, prevention, and corrective measures. Abuse can take many forms—physical, sexual, psychological, or neglect. Schools should ensure that children are never out of sight of staff members, and efforts should be made to avoid isolated areas. Any external labor should be supervised directly by designated school staff, with proper identification recorded. Corporal punishment has no place in our schools; it’s a crime. Children tend to behave well when they know they will be appreciated, rather than out of fear of punishment. Any suspicion of abuse should be documented and reported immediately. Behavioral issues, mental health problems, and incidents of bullying, fighting, or addiction must not be overlooked. Special considerations for the safety of handicapped children are also essential. The Urgency for Action Currently, it seems that no one is taking the safety of school children seriously—neither parents, schools, communities, nor the government. Children are often left at the mercy of fate. It’s time for action, not just discussion. Let’s prioritize the safety and well-being of our children before it’s too late. – Dr. Anil Mokashi (Pediatrician)MBBS, MD, DCH, FIAP, PhD (Child Growth and Development)

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