The coronavirus pandemic has turned our life upside down what
with social distancing, face masks, online schooling and Work from Home, all
becoming the “new normal”. While the disease largely affects the elderly and
people with co-morbidities, children are not spared either, often suffering
from multiple side-effects on their physical and psycho-social well-being.
Many among the younger lot may be susceptible to generalized
anxiety disorder, panic disorder, acute stress disorder and the worsening of
the OCD symptoms for a select few.
Parents and guardians have a crucial role in reassuring children
that everything is going to fall in order and that they could tide over the crisis
together. Also vital is to keep the little ones healthy, both physically and psychologically.
What to do:
— It’s vital to address their concerns about the disease and
make them understand why the changed life style is needed. Speak to your child or teen about Covid-19 in
a way they can understand. Share facts from a reliable source (ie. CDC, WHO)
–Reassurance is the key. Allow them to have a comfortable
space to communicate. Let them know it is okay to be not okay. This is done by
sharing how you have overcome a stressful situation in the past (i.e. by
talking to a loved one).
–Maintain a routine (one for online school days and the
weekends).
–Limit your entire families’ exposure to media and social
media for news to 1-2 times per day. Children can get anxious or worried due to
misunderstanding something they hear.
–Be a role model. Take breaks, get plenty of sleep,
exercise, and eat well. Connect with your friends and family members.
Also, try simple things to help boost their immunity
naturally.
Turmeric: adding a pinch of turmeric to milk makes it
anti-oxidant rich
Vitamin C fruits: jamun , peaches , guava ,oranges and lemon
.A juice or even a chaat from these can help beat the summer heat and fight
infections.
Dry fruits, nuts and seeds: these are nutrient dense &
provide a good source of protein , vitamins & antioxidants You can also
serve trail mix or a laddoo.
Mushrooms: these are loaded with vitamin D and antioxidants
which help build immunity. You can serve them in sandwiches/ pizzas/ pasta or
sauté with colorful veggies or simply make a hot creamy soup.
Meat & fish: these are good source of protein , vitamin B,
zinc ,iron and Omega 3 fatty acids (found in sea fish) These foods help in
building up the body’s natural defence mechanism. Turn them into interesting
curries/ cutlets / grills or soup.
Dairy products: Milk shakes , fruit yoghurt ,smoothies can
break the monotony of the regular tall glass of milk This provide a lot of
protein ,vitamin D and calcium which help build immunity.
To avoid childhood obesity, make sure your children engage in
some easy exercise ,dance, yoga or any indoor physical activity, while regulating
their screen time.
