Category: Parenting

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

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

Audio books to regulate your kids screen time

Classic tales and stories are fundamental to children’s cognitive and creative development, as they awaken the imagination and bring essential teachings…reports Asian Lite News

The development of technology and the unpredictability of Covid-19 requirements have had a significant negative influence on many young lives. In a 2022 study, 57 per cent of kids said they preferred watching TV.  Due to the increased availability of kid-friendly, interesting material on OTT and TV, kids now spend a lot of their spare time riveted to digital displays. However, too much screen time is bad for their eyes and general growth. Motivate your children to listen to audiobooks, podcasts, and audio series. Here is a collection of captivating tales available only on Audible, including literary classics, folktales, fairy tales, and fables spoken by famous people.

Little Baby Bum: Time To Dream (Series 1)

Written by: Angela Salt and Narrated by: Sian Brooke, and Scott Reid

Gently drift off  your young ones to sleep with Audible’s Little Baby Bum: Time To Dream,  with soothing nursery rhymes welcoming little ones into a peaceful night’s sleep. These quintessential nursery rhymes on Audible are perfect for parents who can’t always make time for a bedtime storytelling session for their kids. Curated for children aged 1-2, these narrations transport listeners into a magical world of tranquil soundscapes with calming scores and lulling ambient sounds.

Lellobee City Farm: Grandma Mei’s Fantastic Folktales (Series 1)

Written by: Allan Plenderleith and Narrated by: Louise Mei Newberry

Kids love tales passionately and this Audible podcast is an adventurous treat for your children. In Lellobee City, best friends Ella and Rishi play together on Lellobee City Farm and enjoy the company of their wonderful Grandma Mei who narrates to them fantastic folktales collected from her travels around the world! Transport your children into the alluring and picturesque stories set in a Brazilian rainforest narrated by Grandma Mei complemented with realistic atmospheric background scores used in this podcast.

Dolly Parton’s Billy the Kid Makes It Big

Written and Narrated By: Dolly Parton

The exemplary music singer Dolly Parton accounts a story about her god-dog, a French bulldog ‘Billy the Kid’  who is trying to make it big as a country music star in Nashville, Tennessee. This audiobook is a delightful interpretation of standing up to people who put you down and finding the drive to achieve your dreams. Billy has a scuffle with his fellow barking friends and is dismayed due to his melancholic condition. This led him to rely on his favourite country music and the singer Dolly Parton to regain his self-confidence. This motivational tale with a pet protagonist will inspire your young ones to face their challenges head-on as they embark on their journey to achieve their dreams.  

The Islands of Elsewhere

Written by: Heather Fawcett and Narrated by: Mia Hutchinson-Shaw

Mixed with magic and plenty of adventure, this seaside story of siblings on a treasure hunt is perfect for fantasy fans. The Snolly sisters discover three islands in their backyard while vacationing in their grandfather’s seaside property, The Misty Coven for the summer. Bee Snolly and her sister begin to believe in magic as these mysterious islands withhold a secret that helps the siblings assist their ailing grandfather on the path of recovery. This is a wonderful allegory to teach your children the values of faith, gratitude, and responsibility, so make sure to tune into The Islands of Elsewhere on Audible.

10 Most Inspiring Stories for Kids

Written by: Hans Christian Andersen and others Narrated by: Katie Haigh

Classic tales and stories are fundamental to children’s cognitive and creative development, as they awaken the imagination and bring essential teachings. These stories inspire children through important archetypes and symbolic imagery; they help children envisage fantastic worlds, full of possibilities and wonders. This specially designed compilation includes classic folk tales, and famous stories by Hans Christian Andersen and provides children with a formative overview of the best of children’s classics. The audiobook is an impeccable compilation of classic literature you must indulge your kids in.

ALSO READ-FDCI partners with Reliance brands for fashion extravaganza

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

How parenting can support LGBTQ+ child

10 ways parents can emotionally support a LGBTQ+ child(ianslife)

Give them space to express themselves. Let them dress, however, they want to. Let them express themselves as they desire. Be mindful of what terminologies, pronouns, and names you are using…reports Asian Lite News

The relationship between parents and children is one of the most endearing that we have ever witnessed in our lives. With different life events, you ride an emotional roller coaster. And it can be tough to understand your children at times, just as it can be difficult for them to understand their parents.

Parents always want the best for their children, but in this rapidly changing world, it can be tough to keep up. It becomes harder for parents to provide the emotional support that their children require. Especially if they are the parents of a child who is homosexual, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ).

As a parent to understand and approach LGBTQ youth confront a variety of problems that their parents may find difficult to comprehend and address, Archana Singhal, Counselor and Family Therapist, Founder of Mindwell Counsel, and Member of – the Counsellors Council of India and WICCI NPWC; suggest some ways parents can emotionally support their LGBTQ+ Child.

Be mindful of the language you use when talking about LGBTQ+ Community: The child always observes the way their parents react towards the LGBTQ community and this determines whether they would open up to their parents about their identity or not. Openly showing your support towards queer identity would help the child in feeling accepted.

Support them no matter what label they use: there are times when kids change their label more than once after coming out as LGBTQ+. You should support that because changing labels doesn’t mean that you would dismiss their identity or orientation. You should support them irrespective of their identity or orientation

Look out for Bullies: In school, LGBTQ+ youth are often targeted for being different. Therefore, look out for your kids, and if you feel like they are being bullied take action and reach out to their teachers or counsellor. You might start noticing declining grades, sudden shifts in nature, and unexplained absences from school.

Give them space: Give them space to express themselves. Let them dress, however, they want to. Let them express themselves as they desire. Be mindful of what terminologies, pronouns, and names you are using.

Ask them what they want: As a parent, it might become difficult to figure out what they want. Therefore, talk to them. Ask them what they are feeling, how they’re doing, and what would make them feel supported.

Show them that you love them: Sometimes for LGBTQ+ Youth coming out to their parents is the scariest part for them. Henceforth, show them that you love them and you care about them.

Try to learn the facts: Try to clear out the misconceptions and learn the facts. It will show them that you are trying to understand them.

Encourage Healthy Relations: Dating is something kids feel awkward talking to their parents about. Therefore, try to be open with them. Let them know what healthy relationships are and encourage them. As unhealthy relationships can be misleading.

Seek Support: It’s understandable if you are feeling confused and helpless, but remember that your child is having more difficulty than you. Therefore try to seek help! Talk to a counsellor or someone who has gone through the same thing as you.

Try to Understand what you yourself are feeling: When a child comes out to their parents, it’s understandable that you feel a rush of conflicting emotions. You might feel scared for your child because of the potential discrimination that they might go through. This all can cause you a lot of stress. Therefore, take help mentally.

This Pride Month, be the supporting parent and be glad that your child felt safe “coming out” to you as an LGBTQ+ person. Be a community ally and assist your child in every way you can. This will be difficult for both you and your child. However, this will bring you closer to your child and make them feel accepted.

Many LGBTQ+ youth believe that if they have their parents on their side, they can overcome any obstacle!

ALSO READ-Celebrate Pride Month’s universal language of love

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

Nostalgic Memories of My Grandmother: A Cherished Legacy

The memories I carry of my grandmother evoke sweet memories —a yearning to relive those precious moments while being grateful for the love and lessons she bestowed upon me…writes Khushboo Agrahari , Senior Journalist & Special Correspondent 

The memories we hold of our loved ones often become treasures, forever etched in our hearts. Among the many influential individuals who have touched our lives, grandparents hold a special place. In my case, my grandmother, a remarkable woman whose presence radiated warmth and wisdom, left an indelible mark on my soul. Recalling those nostalgic memories, I am transported back to a time filled with love, life lessons, and the beauty of intergenerational bonds.

The Welcoming Embrace. Every visit to my grandmother’s house was met with an embrace that spoke volumes. Her loving arms enveloped me, creating an instant sense of security and belonging. The comfort of her presence was unmatched, a source of solace and assurance during both joyous and challenging times.

Stories That Ignited Imagination. My grandmother possessed a magical ability to captivate my imagination through her storytelling. Whether it was recounting tales from her childhood or narrating folklore passed down through generations, she transported me to different worlds. Her stories not only entertained but also imparted invaluable life lessons, teaching me the values of compassion, resilience, and humility.

Culinary Delights and Traditions. In my grandmother’s kitchen, culinary delights awaited. From traditional recipes handed down through generations to her secret ingredients that made each dish extraordinary, she lovingly prepared meals that satisfied both the palate and the soul. Her kitchen was a sanctuary of flavors and aromas, where cherished family recipes were shared and preserved.

A Haven of Wisdom. With age comes wisdom, and my grandmother embodied this adage. She possessed a wealth of knowledge and experience, and her guidance shaped my perspective on life. Conversations with her were filled with profound insights, gentle encouragement, and thought-provoking discussions. Her wisdom continues to guide me through life’s twists and turns, even in her physical absence.

Unconditional Love. My grandmother’s love knew no bounds. It was unwavering, unconditional, and all-encompassing. She celebrated my triumphs, provided solace during failures, and stood as an unwavering pillar of support. Her love was a constant reminder of the power of familial bonds and the importance of cherishing those we hold dear.

The memories I carry of my grandmother evoke sweet memories —a yearning to relive those precious moments while being grateful for the love and lessons she bestowed upon me. Her legacy lives on in my heart, guiding me as I navigate life’s journey. The imprint she left on my soul serves as a reminder to cherish the memories we create with our loved ones and to pass on the love and wisdom to future generations.

In honouring my grandmother’s memory, I strive to embody the qualities she possessed: love, kindness, strength, and unwavering support. She remains an enduring symbol of love and inspiration, forever cherished in the tapestry of my life. 

ALSO READ-Jhalak of Jharkhand by Sanskruti bring forth fascinating insights

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

How to skip kids’ over screen time during vacation

More than 90 per cent of parents surveyed believe kids become less active when spending more time on screen devices. Majority felt that ideal screen time should be less than 2 hours however, 69 per cent confirmed that their kids are spending more than 3 hours with screens every day…reports Asian Lite News

Summer vacations mean a break from school, travelling, and extra play-time for kids. With plenty of spare time in hand during holidays, 85 per cent surveyed parents are worried about kids spending excessive screen time during the break.

According to a survey commissioned by Kantar for Amazon in March 2023 among over 750 parents with young kids (3 – 8 years) across 10 metro and non-metro cities of India, almost 96 per cent of parents are searching for screen-free ideas to keep their kids engaged with learning and fun activities.

The survey indicates that 82 per cent of parents are worried about keeping their kids engaged this summer. Some of the top concerns of parents include ‘help kids learn while having fun (41 per cent)’, ‘keep pace with their curiosity to learn new things (37 per cent)’, and ‘manage boredom amongst kids in creative ways (30 per cent)’.

Kids spending excessive screen time during summer vacations?(ianslife)

More than 90 per cent of parents surveyed believe kids become less active when spending more time on screen devices. Majority felt that ideal screen time should be less than 2 hours however, 69 per cent confirmed that their kids are spending more than 3 hours with screens every day.

“Kids are curious to learn new things and want to have fun in the process. With more free time at hand during summer vacations, parents have a big task ahead of themselves to keep their kids engaged”, says Deepender Rana, Executive Managing Director, Insights Division, Kantar. “Our survey indicates that parents are keen to limit screen time of kids with screen-free activities that can help them learn new skills and have fun at the same time.”

To help kids make the most of their summer vacation, parents want them to pick up skills such as English speaking (50 per cent); good morals and social manners (45 per cent); performing arts like dancing, singing, and playing musical instruments (36 per cent); arts and crafts (32 per cent); and physical and outdoor activities (32 per cent).

ALSO READ-Risks of vitamin deficiency

Categories
Lite Blogs Parenting

New dating trend of ‘plant parenthood’

Rise of 'plant parenthood'(ianslife)

Data from Bumble, the women-first dating app, shows that ‘Gardening’ is one of the top 5 ‘Staying In’ interest badges added to Bumble profiles in India last month…reports Asian Lite News

Have you ever been attracted to someone’s profile on Bumble because they had some thriving houseplants in their photos? Millennials may have been drawn to fostering the green thumb for a while, however now it’s Gen Z in India who are leaning more toward greenery. Post-pandemic, a rising number of single Indians are looking to date someone who shares their interest and love of houseplants.

As per Bumble’s recent study, 46 per cent of single Indians feel if their date or prospective partner has house plants it makes them more interesting to talk to. In fact, 81 per cent of single Indians would consider owning and caring for a plant together, irrespective of if they live separately or together.

Data from Bumble, the women-first dating app, shows that ‘Gardening’ is one of the top 5 ‘Staying In’ interest badges added to Bumble profiles in India last month.

Speaking on this new trend, Samarpita Samaddar, India’s Communications Director, Bumble shares, “Growing and taking care of plants together, that sense of responsibility, the joy we feel as they grow and thrive, is uniquely healthy for relationships as well as our mental well-being. One of the positive new dating trends is ‘plant parenthood’ which is gaining popularity in India as people are making more values-driven dating decisions amidst conversations around climate and nature now being more prevalent among GenZ and Millennials.

Bumble’s Interest Badges are a quick way to let people know what’s most important to you. By adding the ‘Gardening’ or ‘Environmentalism’ Interest Badge within the app, you can highlight your preferences and connect with someone who shares your passion and interests!” she adds.

Clearly, plants mean more to people than just decoration. But what makes plant lovers attractive? What does that gorgeous fiddle leaf fig in the corner of your living room say about your relationship?

Take a look at some quick tips by Bumble’s Relationship Expert, Shahzeen Shivdasani, on how plant parenthood can help blossom your relationship:

Nurture through nature: Taking care of plants together can foster a deeper connection. Sometimes we get wrapped up in the routine of a relationship that we forget to spend quality time with each other. From watering, pruning, repotting, and everything else in between, caring for plants together is a great way to ensure that you are nurturing the relationship and spending quality time with each other.

Figuring it out together: Climbers find their way as they grow and look for solutions if they hit a roadblock. Whether it’s a drooping, yellow plant, or a change in your communication style, plant parents can get to the heart of the matter and find a solution to get back on track to being healthy again.

Let nature take its course: Owning and caring for plants can be a very calming experience for some, however, it’s important to remember that you can’t forcibly accelerate the growth of anything or anyone. New leaves sometimes grow slowly, just like relationships, so give yours the time and care that it needs.

The green rule: Just like you would look up what each plant needs to thrive, it is important we do the same with our relationships. Listen, discuss, and understand each other’s needs and desires to build a healthy relationship.

ALSO READ-The magic of parenting and character formation