Category: Parenting

Categories
Food Lite Blogs Parenting

Risks of High Sugar Content in Kids’ Cereals

Artificial colors and flavors, commonly found in children’s cereals, have raised questions about their safety. Some studies hint at a potential connection between certain artificial colors and an increased risk of cancer…reports Asian Lite News

Morning rituals and healthy breakfasts together form a tradition we pass down to our kids. But here is the twist: those seemingly virtuous cereals might contain ingredients with damaging effects that you might not be aware of. Could your child’s apparent healthy morning bowl be hiding cancer-causing ingredients?

Read ahead to know more as Nupuur Patil, a nutritionist and fitness expert breaks down cereal Ingredients, which is a common breakfast in many households. 

Acrylamide: A Hidden Threat

Acrylamide, a potentially carcinogenic (cancer-causing) compound, is formed during the cooking process of certain foods, especially those high in starch, like cereals. Acrylamide is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), indicating its potential carcinogenicity to humans. This underscores the importance of understanding how our food is processed and choosing products that minimize exposure to such compounds.

The Sugar Dilemma: A Sweet Conundrum

One of the primary concerns associated with kids’ cereals is the high level of added sugars. Studies suggest a possible link between excessive sugar consumption and an elevated risk of certain cancers. Refined sugars contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance, creating an environment conducive to cancer cell development. Parents are, therefore, urged to be vigilant about sugar content, opting for cereals with minimal added sugars or, better yet, exploring natural sweeteners.

Artificial Colors and Flavors: A Potential Culprit

Artificial colors and flavors, commonly found in children’s cereals, have raised questions about their safety. Some studies hint at a potential connection between certain artificial colors and an increased risk of cancer. Commonly used synthetic food colorants (SFCs), such as Red 40 and Yellow 5, are under scrutiny. Choosing cereals with natural ingredients and fewer artificial additives can be a step towards reducing potential health risks.

Empowering Parents: Making Informed Choices

While the link between kids’ cereals and cancer is not conclusively proven, parents can empower themselves by making informed choices. Opting for cereals with minimal added sugars, natural ingredients, and no artificial additives, as well as being mindful of GMOs and pesticides, can contribute to a healthier diet for children.

As parents, our choices play a pivotal role in shaping our children’s health. By staying informed and making conscious decisions about the cereals we provide, we can contribute to a healthier future for our kids. Prioritizing whole, nutrient-rich foods and minimizing exposure to potential carcinogens is a significant step towards fostering well-being and safeguarding our children’s health.

ALSO READ-Add protein supplements into your fitness regime

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

Literary Journeys in the Digital Age

In today’s digital age, it’s crucial to rekindle the magic of screen-free storytelling for kids. Think of it as ‘edu-tainment’ – education meets entertainment. Authors like Ruskin Bond, Sudha Murthy, R.K. Narayan, and more have brought their timeless tales to Audible, making it easier than ever to set on literary journeys. Here’s a list of some brilliant titles that will transport your children to exciting adventures, teaching them valuable life lessons, and kindling their love for words in the most entertaining way possible!

The Great Train Journey
Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Ranvijay Pratap Singh

‘The Great Train Journey’ by Ruskin Bond is a fantastic audiobook for kids. It’s all about the magic of train adventures, from dragons emerging from tunnels to meeting interesting people on the journey. Join one of India’s greatest storytellers as he takes you on a fun ride through small-town India and its Great Train Journey!

Great Stories for Children

Written by: Ruskin Bond; Narrated by: Adnan Kapadia

With its diverse tales of adventure, humour, and the supernatural, this audiobook makes for a perfect choice to spark a child’s imagination and entertain them through engaging storytelling. It is a potpourri of short stories that effectively transports young listeners to the fascinating world of its characters – including Tutu the monkey; a pet python who makes sudden appearances at the most unusual places; Himalayan bears who feast on pumpkins, plums and apricots; a crafty thief who has a change of heart; and Ruskin Bond himself, who meets a ghost at a resort in the middle of the night.

How the Sea Became Salty

Written by: Sudha Murty; Narrated by: Neha Faraz, Sumit Kritarth

‘How the Sea Became Salty,’ by India’s beloved storyteller Sudha Murthy, is a delightful children’s audiobook. Her tales often carry a moral lesson, encouraging young minds to reflect on the values and principles that guide human behaviour. This audiobook offers an opportunity for young readers to learn important life lessons in an engaging manner. Through Sudha Murthy’s wit and simplicity, the timeless tale comes alive, making it the perfect introduction for children to her magical world of stories in an immersive audio format.

Grandparents’ Bag of Stories

Written by: Sudha Murty; Narrated by: Poonam Srivastav

Set against the backdrop of the 2020 lockdown, the story revolves around the experiences of children as they stay with their loving grandparents, Ajja and Ajji, in Shiggaon. It is a beautifully crafted audiobook that provides a perfect escape for children during challenging times. It combines the magic of storytelling with the wisdom of generations. This one is an un-put-down-able audiobook that is a must-have for every child’s audio library.

Maalgudi Ki Kahaniyan [Stories of Malgudi]

Written by: R.K. Narayan; Narrated by: Toshi Sinha

In this audiobook, the narrator takes the audience on a journey through the picturesque and culturally rich village of Malgudi, providing an immersive experience filled with the sights and sounds of rural South India. It is a fantastic choice for children and even adults interested in the world of Indian literature, with a collection of short stories. These tales transport listeners to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into the diverse lives and experiences of the village’s inhabitants, including astrologers, postmen, doctors, beggars, and priests.

The Vedas and Upanishads for Children

Written by: Roopa Pai; Narrated by: Sharanya Gopinath

It takes young readers on a journey back 3000 years to the depths of Indian forests, where brilliant philosopher-scientists pondered questions about the universe and human existence. This audiobook introduces kids to the age-old questions about the universe, perception, and identity, as explored by the great philosopher-scientists of ancient India. It’s an engaging and thought-provoking guide to the Vedas and Upanishads, making these timeless teachings accessible and enjoyable for young minds.

A Children’s History of India

Written by: Subhadra Sen Gupta; Narrated by: Manisha Sethi

From the ancient cities of Harappa to the Mughal era, the British rule, and India’s independence, this book provides a comprehensive look at the nation’s history. It is an engaging and informative exploration of India’s rich past, taking readers on a captivating journey through time.

ALSO READ-‘We Speak Books’

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

Addressing Childhood Trauma in Small Towns

Art, music, and other creative outlets have always been shown as a powerful tool to express emotions…writes N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Trauma is an unfortunate reality that affects children across the globe, regardless of location. In small towns, however, resources for addressing trauma can be limited, making it crucial for parents, caregivers, and communities to step in and provide the support that young minds need.

To combat such issues in rural areas according to Dr. Vishesh Kasliwal, MBBS, DEM, and Founder, of Medyseva, communication is the cornerstone of helping children cope with trauma. He says, “Create a safe and open environment for children to express their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to share their experiences and concerns. By actively listening and responding with empathy, adults can provide the emotional support that children need. In small towns, tight-knit communities can use this to their advantage. Teachers, neighbours, and friends can work together to create a network of support where children feel comfortable discussing their emotions and experiences.”

Small towns may not always have easy access to mental health professionals, but it’s essential to seek help when needed. “If a child’s trauma symptoms persist or worsen, consider reaching out to local healthcare providers, counsellors, or therapists. Telehealth services may also be an option, enabling children to access help even in remote areas,” says Dr. Kasliwal.

A healthy physical body is necessary for a healthy mental state. The founder of Medyseva – a healthcare startup focusing on telemedicine in Rural India, encourages elders to educate children to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods, getting regular exercise, and ensuring they get adequate sleep. “Small towns often have ample outdoor spaces, making it easier to engage in physical activities like hiking, biking, or playing sports. These activities not only improve physical health but also help release endorphins, which can alleviate the symptoms of trauma and stress,” He adds.

Art, music, and other creative outlets have always been shown as a powerful tool to express emotions. Dr. Kasliwal suggests, “Art provides an avenue for self-expression and offers a sense of control, helping children regain a sense of agency over their lives. Encourage children to draw, paint, write, or play music as a way to process their trauma. Community organizations can host an art program or provide spaces where children can engage in creative activities, even if they lack formal art or music education programs.”

In the context of fostering a sense of security, trauma can often disrupt a child’s sense of security and stability. The Medyseva founder says, “In small towns, where a sense of community is often strong, it’s essential to emphasize the importance of routine and consistency. Maintain daily routines, rituals, and traditions that provide a sense of stability in a child’s life. Additionally, small towns can organize community events and activities that promote a sense of belonging and togetherness. Feeling part of a supportive community can significantly contribute to a child’s emotional well-being.”

He adds, “Raising awareness about the impact of trauma on children is essential. Schools, local organizations, and communities in small towns can organize workshops, seminars, and awareness campaigns on trauma and its effects. When parents and caregivers are informed about trauma, they are better equipped to recognize its signs and respond appropriately. Teaching children about emotional well-being and resilience is also vital. By educating them about their emotions and ways to cope with trauma, we empower them to manage their feelings and develop crucial life skills.”

Helping children cope with trauma in small towns requires a collective effort from parents, caregivers, educators, and communities, Let’s create a supportive environment where children can heal and thrive

ALSO READ-UAE to Treat Palestinian Kids and Families

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs Parenting

Navigating Parent-Child Conflicts

It’s crucial to remain calm and composed during arguments. Avoid reacting emotionally or becoming defensive. Being composed provides a good example for your child, who frequently imitates your emotional condition…reports Asian Lite News

Parenting can be difficult, but managing conflicts with your child is an essential part of that. It’s an opportunity to impart to children valuable life lessons like empathy, communication, and how to resolve conflicts.

Keep in mind that disagreements are a natural component of interpersonal communication and present a chance for development. You may support your child’s development of important life skills and improve your relationship with them by treating conflicts with patience, empathy, and a focus on teaching constructive communication. 

Following are some points mentioned by Megha Chopra, Entrepreneur, and Poet, to handle disputes with your child:

Avoid getting into an argument: Avoid answering your child’s argument with one of your own.  Instead, give her a clear explanation of your viewpoint and go away. Everyone loses when we make parenting decisions in response to a child’s disagreements and conflicts.

Stay calm: It’s crucial to remain calm and composed during arguments. Avoid reacting emotionally or becoming defensive. Being composed provides a good example for your child, who frequently imitates your emotional condition.

Actively listening: By paying attention to what your child has to say, you may demonstrate to them how much you appreciate their viewpoint. To be sure you have understood them accurately, make eye contact, and rephrase their perspective. They experience being heard and understood as a result.

Set boundaries: Make sure your youngster is aware of the limitations and guidelines in your home. When a disagreement arises, remind them of these limitations. To make sure your child understands what is expected of them, go over the rules and guidelines with them. By letting your youngster know what is expected, consistent rules can help prevent disagreements.

Problem-Solving: Encourage your child to come up with possible solutions to the issue. They may get critical thinking and conflict-resolution abilities through this. Find concessions that you and your child can both accept by working together.

Set a Good Example: Show healthy communication by refraining from yelling, calling others names, or using derogatory terminology. Since your child picks up on your actions, it is essential to communicate respectfully.

Teach compromise: Educate your child on the value of compromise and locating common ground. Encourage them to think about not just their own needs and viewpoints, but also those of others.

Teach Problem-Solving: Teach your child to solve problems by encouraging them to come up with solutions to the issues they are arguing about. They gain critical thinking and conflict-resolution abilities as a result of this. By questioning them “How could you want to solve this problem?” 

Praise Positive Behavior: When your child handles conflicts with maturity and respect, praise and reward them. They may be inspired to continue practising effective communication skills through encouragement.

Seek Professional Assistance if Needed: Consider seeking professional assistance if fights with your child become frequent, heated, or detrimental to their wellbeing. You and your child can receive helpful direction and support from a child psychologist or family therapist as you negotiate difficult situations.

If you approach handling your child’s conflicts with compassion, empathy, and efficient communication, it may be a pleasant experience. You can successfully handle conflicts with your child by carefully listening, empathising, and giving clear expectations. Keep in mind that conflicts between parents and children are common. Your aim should be to show your child respectful communication skills and dispute-resolution techniques. A healthy parent-child connection also depends on maintaining a strong relationship. Also, every child is different, so it could take some time to find the best strategy for your particular circumstance.

ALSO READ-Etihad Airways Partners with Katrina Kaif as Brand Ambassador

Categories
Health Lite Blogs Parenting

The Power of Post-Delivery Nutrition

These foods are carefully selected to address the unique nutritional needs of postpartum recovery, offering a comprehensive guide to help new moms navigate this important phase with confidence and optimal well-being…reports Asian Lite News

The post-delivery period, often referred to as the postpartum phase, is a transformative time for new mothers. As their bodies recover from childbirth and adapt to the responsibilities of nurturing a newborn, proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in ensuring their physical and emotional well-being.

Post-delivery food is crucial for aiding tissue repair to replenish vital nutrients lost during childbirth. Nutrient-rich foods provide the necessary energy to combat fatigue, promote emotional stability, and support the demands of breastfeeding, if applicable. Moreover, a well-balanced diet during this phase can help new moms regain strength, maintain healthy body weight, and even enhance the quality of breast milk, contributing significantly to the long-term health and development of their newborns.

In this article, Dr. Hansaji Yogendra, the director of The Yoga Institute and President of the Indian Yoga Association, who has over 3.63 million followers on YouTube and conducted more than 1.5 lakh theoretical and practical yoga sessions shares five fundamental post-delivery foods that are vital for new mothers.

These foods are carefully selected to address the unique nutritional needs of postpartum recovery, offering a comprehensive guide to help new moms navigate this important phase with confidence and optimal well-being.

Seed and Nut Laddoo:

These delectable round treats, known as laddoos, are a sweet indulgence that comes with immense health benefits. Specifically crafted to enhance milk production in breastfeeding mothers, these lactation laddoos are made with a blend of nutrient-rich ingredients. They commonly contain fenugreek seeds, garden cress seeds, fennel seeds, edible gum (gond), ghee, and dried fruits. Enjoying these laddoos not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides essential nutrients for postpartum recovery.

Khichdi:

Khichdi, a comforting one-pot meal prepared from rice and lentils, is a beloved staple for new mothers. Its gentle, easy-to-digest nature makes it an ideal choice during the postpartum phase. You can infuse this dish with mild spices like cumin and asafoetida to add flavour while ensuring it remains gentle on the digestive system. Khichdi offers essential nutrients to support your recovery journey.

Fenugreek/Fennel Tea:

Renowned for their lactation-boosting properties, fenugreek and fennel seeds are a valuable addition to a new mother’s diet. Preparing a tea by simmering these seeds in water can aid in increasing breast milk production, providing both hydration and lactation support.

Dry Fruits and Nuts:

A delightful mix of dry fruits and nuts, including almonds, walnuts, cashews, and dates, serves as an ideal snack for new moms. Packed with energy, essential fats, and vital nutrients, these delectable bites contribute significantly to postpartum recovery, offering a delicious and nutritious way to refuel your body.

Ginger-Based Dishes:

Incorporating ginger into your post-delivery meals can work wonders for digestion and inflammation reduction. Whether you choose to infuse ginger into your lentil soups (dals) or add it to your vegetables for enhanced flavour and health benefits, this aromatic root can be a valuable addition to your postpartum diet, promoting overall wellness.

As a new mom, remember that your health and vitality are paramount, not only for your own well-being but also for the care and nurturing of your precious bundle of joy. Embrace these five post-delivery foods as an integral part of your motherhood journey and nourish your physical and mental well-being.

ALSO READ-KOKUM – Modern Indian Dining in Dulwich, London

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs Parenting

Empowering parenthood: Exploring assisted reproductive technologies

IVF and other ART technologies empower choice in several significant ways, offering couples greater control and options when it comes to their family planning journey. Here’s how IVF empowers choice…writes Dr. Nisha Bhatnagar

Parenthood is one of life’s greatest journeys. It brings with it dreams, aspirations, and choices that shape people and families. If you’re navigating the complex world of fertility, this article will be beneficial. Advances in modern science have revolutionized the way one can conceive. Artificial Reproductive Technologies (ART) and In-vitro Fertilization (IVF) are two of the most cutting-edge technologies that have opened up new possibilities for couples who want to become parents. These technologies give people more control over their fertility, change the way family planning works, and open up a world of possibilities that were once unimaginable.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Navigating the Path to Parenthood

Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART) are a wide range of medical treatments designed to help people and couples overcome infertility problems. These treatments include IVF, IUI, GIFT, and ICSI. These groundbreaking techniques address a variety of fertility issues, such as ovulation disorders, sperm count deficiency, fallopian tube blockages, and more. ART’s power lies in its capacity to overcome biological obstacles that might otherwise prevent natural conception. By combining the science of reproduction and medical innovations, ART has changed the way we think about parenthood. With this constellation of methods, couples can choose the approach that best suits their individual circumstances, giving them hope and the opportunity to experience the joy of raising a child.

In-Vitro Fertilization: Unveiling New Horizons

IVF (in vitro fertilization) is a groundbreaking advancement in fertility science that has rewritten the story of family planning. It involves extracting eggs from a woman’s ovaries, fertilizing them with sperm under controlled conditions, nurturing the resulting embryos, and eventually transferring them to the woman’s uterus with the aspiration of achieving a successful pregnancy.

But IVF’s impact goes beyond the fundamental process. By combining IVF with technologies like preimplantation genetics testing (PGT), adds another layer of empowerment. PGT allows embryos to be tested for genetic abnormalities before implantation, reducing the risk of inherited conditions and improving the chances of healthy babies being born. The combination of IVF and genetic insights highlights the meticulousness of modern fertility treatments: focusing on the birth of healthy babies while embracing the wonders of science.

Choice Redefined

IVF and other ART technologies empower choice in several significant ways, offering couples greater control and options when it comes to their family planning journey. Here’s how IVF empowers choice:

Expanded Reproductive Options: IVF offers an alternative route to parenthood for couples who may not be able to conceive naturally due to infertility or other reproductive issues.

Individualized Treatment Plans: IVF treatment plans are customized to each individual’s or couple’s unique needs. Medical professionals take into account factors such as the age of the patient, the medical history of the patient, fertility issues, preferences, etc. to create a personalized approach to treatment.

Choice of genetic testing: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is an essential part of IVF. It allows potential parents to screen their embryos for genetic disorders prior to implantation. This helps individuals and couples make informed decisions about which embryos they want to use for conception. By screening embryos before they are implanted, couples can reduce their risk of passing on genetic conditions to their children.

Timing and family planning: IVF and other technologies such as egg freezing, embryo freezing etc. allow couples to plan for pregnancy and parenthood with more flexibility. Couples who have busy schedules or medical concerns can plan for their pregnancies at a time that fits their lives and careers.

Addressing Fertility Preservation: ART can empower individuals to preserve their fertility for future use. This is particularly relevant for people undergoing medical treatments that may affect their fertility, such as cancer treatments. These medical interventions allow them to freeze embryos or eggs for later use, providing them with the choice to have biological children after recovery or when they are ready.

Donor eggs/sperm: In cases where both partners face fertility challenges, IVF can allow them to share in the biological experience of parenthood. By using both partners’ genetic material or a combination of donor material, couples can fulfill their dream of parenthood.

Empowerment Through Education: As part of the IVF process, couples receive detailed information about their fertility, reproductive health, and the various options available to them. This education empowers them to make well-informed decisions about their reproductive journey.

Artificial Reproduction Technologies (ART) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) empower couples with the power to make informed decisions, personalize treatments, and gain insight into genetic predisposition. As technology advances and science advances, the path to parenthood is changing, and it’s a journey that highlights the power of science to shape the dreams and reality of families around the world. In essence, these interventions empower couples with the freedom to make choices that align with their values, preferences, and unique circumstances. It enables them to take an active role in shaping their path to parenthood

ALSO READ-Formidable palaces to travel with your dad

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs Parenting

Cozy stay-at-home activities for rainy weekends

Opting for an at-home movie night can be a great idea to spend the weekend indoors. Make a list of movies you want to watch with your friends and family, read it out aloud and ask everyone to pick the movie they want to watch…reports Asian Lite News

The monsoon season is the perfect time to spend cozy indoor weekends with friends and family. Catching up with your loved ones and indulging in some fun activities without stepping out is a great bargain, especially when it’s pouring outside! From enjoying games to relaxing self-care sessions, here are 5 ultimate stay-at-home activities to enjoy with your loved ones and make memories together, shared by Dr Nimarta Bindra Parenting and Lifestyle influencer,

Game Night: Thinking of spending time indoors this weekend? What better way than getting together to enjoy some board games? Board games like Monopoly, Game of Life and Cluedo are all-time favourites and have been a source of entertainment for kids and adults alike. Get ready to witness sessions of laughter, fun, teasing and competitive spirit while you bond with your loved ones over board games. Card games like 5 Alive, Guess Who? and Monopoly Deal can enliven your rather dull rainy afternoons with its fast-paced gameplay. Gear up for exciting rounds of immersive playtime with these fun and interactive games.

Movie Night: Opting for an at-home movie night can be a great idea to spend the weekend indoors. Make a list of movies you want to watch with your friends and family, read it out aloud and ask everyone to pick the movie they want to watch. The movie with the most votes wins! You could also have a movie marathon. Arrange for some snacks to go with it and you are all set to have a cozy weekend indoors watching your favourite movies with your favourite people.

Make an elaborate meal together: If feeding your loved ones is your love language, there is no better way to spend the weekend than enjoying catching up over cooking great food. For people who enjoy cooking together, go ahead and cook an elaborate meal together and set the ambience for a delicious cozy indoor weekend with the perfect music to go with it.

Plan your next vacation: Planning a family trip or a friend’s trip can be a great way to spend the weekend together. Invite your folks over for a detailed discussion of your next trip and plan out the places you want to visit and the food you want to try. Planning the itinerary for your travel together leads to moments of fun, and laughter, and gets everyone excited and thrilled. So, go ahead and make a plan to explore new places and delicacies this weekend!

Spa time: Who doesn’t like a relaxing spa session? It is all the more fun when you invite your folks over for a tranquilising spa session at home. Unwind with friends and family over relaxing massages, manicures, and pedicure sessions. Light some aromatherapy candles or oil diffusers to create the perfect lighting for some extra effect and indulge in some much-needed self-care while you unwind and rest together.

ALSO READ-Dining delights in Dubai: A culinary journey through diverse flavors

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs Parenting

Curated list of heartwarming audible titles

‘Love a Little Stronger ‘ reminds us to cherish life’s smallest moments and love with greater strength, making it a must-read for parents and anyone touched by the magic of childhood…reports Asian Lite News

As National Parents’ Day draws near, it’s time to celebrate our real-life superheroes who taught us to fly even before we knew how to walk! This July 23, let’s cherish the guiding light of our lives with a curated list of these Audible titles that beautifully capture the essence of parenthood and offer parenting tips for the new ones embarking on the journey, reminding us of the magic woven by their love.

Ahimsa
Written by: Supriya Kelkar; Narrated by: Zehra Jane Naqvi

‘Ahimsa’ unfolds during India’s struggle for independence, centering around 10-year-old Anjali and her mother’s profound journey. When her mother responds to Mahatma Gandhi’s call to join the freedom movement, Anjali witnesses the sacrifices of parenthood and embraces the values of non-violent resistance, compassion, and inclusivity. When her mother is jailed, Anjali steps up, continuing her legacy and contributing to India’s fight for freedom. This poignant audiobook celebrates the unwavering love and transformative power of parenthood amidst a momentous chapter in Indian history, drawing inspiration from the real-life experiences of the author’s great-grandmother.

Love a Little Stronger

Written by: Preeti Shenoy; Narrated by: Priyanka Rajpal

This audiobook is a delightful collection of true anecdotes. Written with a style that has engrossed readers worldwide, it strikes a chord with anyone who has experienced the joys and challenges of raising children or hold dear memories of their own youth. ‘Love a Little Stronger ‘ reminds us to cherish life’s smallest moments and love with greater strength, making it a must-read for parents and anyone touched by the magic of childhood.

Queen of Dreams

Written by: Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni; Narrated by: Deepti Gupta

‘Queen of Dreams,’ is a story of mothers and daughters, their love and cultural identity. It is the tale of Rakhi, a talented painter and devoted single mother who juggles a creative block, raising her daughter by herself, and saving the Berkeley teahouse that she co-owns with her best friend, Belle. A national tragedy turns her world upside down, and Rakhi loses her mother in a car accident. Tune into Audible and listen to this touching story that explores the complexities of love, and loss, leaving you captivated by the extraordinary journey of a woman unearthing the secrets that shaped her identity as she embarks on the path to confront her fears.

Active Parenting 

Written by: RamG Vallath; Narrated by: Sanyam Sharma

Here’s to embarking on a parenting adventure like never before. In this audiobook, join Ramgopal Vallath, as he helps you discover the secret to unlocking your child’s full potential and nurturing their unique abilities. With inspiring stories from his own upbringing and encounters with countless parents, you’ll gain invaluable insights and common guidelines to conquer any challenge that comes your way. With expert advice and touching anecdotes, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate this thrilling roller coaster ride of parenthood!

Pumped Up Parenting | The Best Advice that NO ONE ELSE GIVES YOU about Raising Kids in Today’s World
Written by: Celia Kibler

Buckle up, parents! Being a mom or dad is no easy feat; it’s an exhilarating adventure filled with questions, mysteries, and unexpected twists, but fear not when the ‘Pumped up Parenting’ podcast is here. Led by Celia Kibler, a family and relationship-empowerment coach, this podcast spills the beans on everything you need to know about parenting, even the stuff you didn’t know you needed to know! So tune in to Audible and get ready to laugh, learn, and embrace the incredible rollercoaster ride of parenthood with Celia and her expert squad.

ALSO READ-How parenting can support LGBTQ+ child

Categories
Books Lite Blogs Parenting

Picture books to spark your child’s imagination

A visually captivating story that takes readers on a journey of a day from sunny to stormy and then rainy – unfolding over pages of compelling and bold sketches that will surely grip the young reader’s imagination and heart…reports Asian Lite News

Young children are often very creative and hence constantly seeking new ways to engage their boundless imagination. Picture books play a vital role in this process, taking them on a journey that is both visually and emotionally captivating – transporting them to extraordinary places, igniting unforgettable memories, and imparting valuable lessons with engaging artwork that complements a child’s active curiosity and imagination. Encouraging the ever-curious child to explore the world of words and pictures, these books can be essential tools in encouraging your young ones to express themselves freely and creatively, be it through sketches, stories, or both!

The Parag Honour List, an initiative by Tata Trusts offers a curated collection of engaging picture books for young readers. From whimsical tales of animals in the woods to shared experiences of going to school, these must-read picture books are emotive and explorative – unlocking for young readers a world of new ideas, emotions, and possibilities through the power of visual storytelling.

An engaging wordless picture book that beautifully captures countless stories surrounding a momentous event in every young child’s life: their first day of school. With delightful and immersive illustrations, this enchanting book vividly portrays the experience of stepping into the unknown on that memorable day. Being wordless, it is accessible to several kinds of readers, particularly younger ones, who can experience the essence of school life through these moving illustrations.

This is Where We Live

A visually captivating story that takes readers on a journey of a day from sunny to stormy and then rainy – unfolding over pages of compelling and bold sketches that will surely grip the young reader’s imagination and heart. Instantly relatable, the book evokes memories of any child’s days in the sun, storm, and rain – encouraging them to connect with their experiences through art. Buzzed with beauty and creativity, this picture book might even compel young readers to embrace their inner artist, pick up a pencil and create their own sketches as they explore the wonders of the natural world with this book.

Zakir and His TablaDhaDhin Na

Author: Sandhya Rao, Illustrator: Proiti Roy | Publisher: JugnooPrakashan

A moving portrayal of valuable virtues like solidarity, love, and compassion, this bilingual picture book serves as a gentle guide for young readers, teaching them about the profound interconnectedness of all life. Using captivating imagery and powerful metaphors, this book presents a nuanced understanding of the world as a web of life where everyone needs to support each other –  sparking their imagination around abstract philosophical concepts like the significance of harmony and unity in the world.

Animal Alphabet

Author: Manjula Padmanabhan, Illustrator: Manjula Padmanabhan | Publisher: Tulika Publishers

A thoroughly delightful introduction to the English alphabet, there is more than meets the eye with this enjoyable picture book that brings alive on paper the many lesser-known animals of India in their natural habitats. Placing content in context, the book effortlessly opens up children’s minds to the rich lives of diverse fauna that is thriving across our country through its memorable rhymes, vivid illustrations, and appealing color palette.

Tiger, Tiger, where are you?

A captivating hunt for a tiger lost in the woods, let your child’s imagination run wild (quite literally!) as they imagine the great outdoors with a lost tiger roaming the jungle. The watercolor illustration is gentle, soft, and warm – taking young readers on a picturesque visual journey through the woods. A gripping mystery riddled with clues, this book engages the young reader’s curiosity on where the tiger could be while also giving them a glimpse of pragmatic life skills on how to track wild fauna.

ALSO READ-‘The Magical Mission to Mars’

Categories
Food Lite Blogs Parenting

Nurturing healthy eaters in a junk food-filled world

Teach your kids about the importance of a balanced diet and explain the negative effects of excessive fast-food consumption. Help them understand the nutritional value of whole foods and the consequences of consuming a lot of processed foods….reports Asian Lite News

When you have a child, each tiny milestone of theirs’ brings you happiness and joy. Be it the first time they grab your finger or the first few steps they take, each development makes your heart leap with joy. But, with each new step, parents are also constantly worried about their health and well-being. Parenting is often challenging and takes ample hard work and responsibilities, especially for the new parents as the formative years of children hold the utmost importance to shape their lives. One of the biggest worries of a parent is to make their kids eat nutritious and healthy meals that help them to grow. However, Kids often get fussy and demand junk food with unhealthy fats and added sugars. They also increase children’s chances of developing childhood obesity which causes multiple risk factors for many health complications in later life.

Dr. Pallavi Rao Chaturvedi, a parenting coach, educator, and founder of Get Set Parent shares few ideas to raise your kids in a junk food-free environment:

Why do our bodies craves junk food?.(photo:IANSLIFE)

Be an example for kids to follow: Children often imitate their parents and look up to them for everything. Hence, it is very important to make sure you are setting a good example by choosing nutritious, home-cooked meals over fast food. Show them that healthy eating can be delicious and can make all the difference.

Converse and educate: Teach your kids about the importance of a balanced diet and explain the negative effects of excessive fast-food consumption. Help them understand the nutritional value of whole foods and the consequences of consuming a lot of processed foods.

Involve them in meal planning and preparation: Get your children actively involved in meal planning and preparation, ask for their suggestions, and try to implement them. Let them pick out fruits and vegetables at the grocery store and help in the kitchen. This will give them a sense of ownership and make them more likely to enjoy healthier meals.

Limit fast food as a treat: Instead of completely saying no to fast food, consider it as an occasional treat rather than a regular meal option. Set clear rules about how often it can be consumed, such as once a week or for special occasions.

Make healthy snacks accessible: Keep a variety of healthy snacks readily available for your child to choose from. Stock the pantry with options like fresh fruits, cut vegetables, whole grain crackers, and yogurt. Limit the availability of processed snacks and sugary treats.

Choose healthier alternatives: When eating out, choose restaurants offering healthier options or a wider range of choices. Look for places that have salads, grilled options, and fresh ingredients. Encourage your kids to make healthier choices by explaining the benefits of those options.

Remember that changes in eating habits may not happen overnight. Be patient, consistent, and supportive as you work towards improving your child’s eating habits and patterns for a better and healthier tomorrow.

ALSO READ-Food allergy can be lethal