Parents concern about Covid-19 and it's ill effects on the kid's health.

The Covid-19 pandemic has not only dismantled our lives but taken an enormous toll on the health and well-being of our kids. The fear of the probable third wave is creating more apprehension among parents to protect their loved ones. But there are many more indirect complications of covid-19 on children's health. Health is not merely the absence of disease but cumulative physical, psychological and social well-being.

Today, our kids lack many present stimuli during pre-pandemic times that aided

in their overall development. This could result in several problems that your child can face. Lack of outdoor activities has made them glued to mobile phones. This can impair their vision, result in problems like obesity, and result in their intellectual growth getting hampered.

The absence of traditional classroom schooling tends to tone down academic progress and affects social interactions and personality development. Toddlers are throwing more temper tantrums since they are enclosed within four walls of the house. We are also concerned about our kids contracting the virus. So, the critical question is, what is the solution? There ain't a problem without a solution. Small corrective actions can make a big difference.

Many of us parents are working from home. This gives us the golden opportunity to interact with their children during past times. Parents should reduce screen time and spend quality time with kids by playing indoor games, planting trees, involving them in exercising and yoga. Older kids could be taught simple recipes like making an omelet or tea etc. This can make them more independent in the future.

When you have a toddler at home, involve them in activities like clay modeling, hand painting, make them blow balloons which is a form of exercise to boost respiratory health. Art and craft activities can facilitate the development of motor skills. Don't forget to give them nutritious foods like seasonal fruits and vegetables, mangoes, pineapples, eggs, etc., rather than opt for artificial vitamin supplements to build their immunity. Experiment with your recipes to make them child appealing.

Every parent has a unique ability to be creative when it comes to their kids. So use ur creativity and try to make your kids' childhood a brighter one. As they say, dark times never last long, so shall we soon see the sunshine.

About the author : Sukanya Kadam is a healthcare professional with the Directorate Health Services, Government of Goa, India.