Parenting Today

Co pl m ry ta en im

August 2018

Easy Transitioning to

Secondary School

The Power of

1,2,3

What’s in your

Words

hospital bag?

Snacks for Kids Daddy

on duty Raising a

Caring & Compassionate

Child

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

1

2 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

CONTENTS What’s In Your Hospital Bag?

p3

A Look at Breastfeeding Challenges & Benefits p4 Daddy On Duty p6 Raising A Caring & Compassionate Child p8

GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The Power Of Words p12

M. Anthony Shaw

Press Pause On Poor Gaming Habits p14

EDITOR IN CHIEF

1,2,3 Snacks for Kids

Eric Smith

HEAD OF ADVERTISING - NATION GROUP

p16

Best Ayurveda Food And Sleep Routines For Children p18 Easy Transitioning To Secondary School p20

Paulette Jones

MAGAZINE EDITOR & DEPUTY BUSINESS MANAGER Lyle Jones

EDITORIAL TEAM Lyle Jones, Leanne Tasher

PHOTOGRAPHY Akira Joseph

EDITOR’S NOTE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Andrea Jordan, Camille Alleyne, Cecilia Murray, David Hinkson, Femi Mascoll, Rosemarie Layne, Vania Patrick-Drakes, Victoria Cox

DESIGN / LAYOUT Art Department

ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVES Asha Jones – Tel.: (246) 430-5519 email: ashajones@nationnews.com Debbie Brathwaite – Tel: (246) 430-5518 Email: debbiebrathwaite@nationnews.com Donna Francis – Tel: (246) 467-2868 Email: debbiebrathwaite@nationnews.com

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Wendey Delaney – Tel.: (246) 430-5517 email: wendeydelaney@nationnews.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER Adrian Bowen – Tel.: (246) 430-5500 email: adrianbowen@nationnews.com

Y

ou’re holding a copy of Parenting Today magazine that lends insightful tips on critical topics, from childbirth preparation to transitioning to a secondary school, monitoring video game use and the importance of speaking to your child positively. It is geared towards inspiring you to parent mindfully and set a great example for your little one(s).

In this issue, you will also learn a few benefits of being a vigilant and encouraging parent or guardian. Though the media and many parenting forums appear to focus on motherhood and the importance of mothers, we see that fathers play a pertinent role in Daddy on Duty: What Children Need from Their Fathers. Children look to both parents for guidance, love and support. Once positive qualities are demonstrated in the home, it can help them unlock their fullest potential.

Our cover story illustrates how supportive parenting can make a significant difference in a child’s life. It features Rhonda Robinson and her 11-yearold daughter Aijah Robinson-Pinder, whom she has raised to be a caring, compassionate child. Rhonda has developed a remarkable bond with Aijah, which has also enabled her to impart wholesome values. Read our cover story to see how Rhonda encourages Aijah, an author, poet, creative, and essay contest winner, to be her very best. Hopefully, you will find the tips shared in this issue helpful, and employ them in your own parent-child relationships.

Leanne Tasher Editorial Management

PRINTERS PrintWeb Caribbean Ltd

Parenting Today is produced by The Nation Publishing Co. Limited; a subsidiary of the Nation Corporation, which is a member of the One Caribbean Media Limited (OCM) group of companies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this magazine is accurate, however, The Nation Publishing Co. Limited cannot be held responsible for any consequences that may arise from any errors or omissions. This publication cannot be copied in whole or in part without the explicit permission of the Publisher. For general information email: parentingtoday@nationnews.com. ©2018 NATION PUBLISHING CO. LIMITED

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

1

2 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

What’s in your

hospital bag?

By Femi Mascoll

So what exactly is in the hospital bag?

F

or some mummies-tobe, the last trimester of pregnancy seems to drag on forever. After almost forty weeks of gestation, it’s completely normal to feel exhausted and sometimes even anxious about delivery day.

As the big day draws closer, some women actually find much pleasure in preparing the famous hospital bag, packed with all the things mummy and baby will need in those crucial first days.

It is well known that the contents of the bag can be pricey, so for this reason, it may be a good idea to start purchasing the items a bit at a time over a period of weeks.

Documents Arguably, the most important thing you must have on your big day is your folder with your maternity notes. These notes provide essential information dating back to your first OB/GYN visit and they chronicle any issues which may have popped up during the pregnancy such as pre-existing health conditions, which could possibly interfere with baby’s entry into the world.

Clothing A comfortable nightgown and accompanying bathrobe must definitely be included in your hospital bag. The nightgown does not have to be new because the delivery process can be very messy. You will also need additional nightgowns for your time on the ward. Make sure your nightgowns are breastfeeding friendly!

Maternity pads Heavy duty maternity napkins are a must for all new mummies.

Immediately following the delivery, it is completely natural to bleed for a few days. This flow of blood is significantly heavier than the regular menstruation cycle, so be prepared.

Blanket Blankets are a must in any newborn’s bag. Blankets not only come in handy to protect baby from the cold air, but they also act as a necessary barrier between your visitors’ clothes and body when they come into contact with the little one.

Bonus: Nipple butter can be a great aid for the early weeks of breastfeeding. It is known that many women experience severe discomfort when breastfeeding after delivery.

Sometimes, they experience dry and cracking nipples which make nursing very painful. Nipple butter is used to moisturise and soothe the area.

Cotton wool Cotton wool is also a necessity, not only for the newborn stage, but right through baby’s first year. When giving the baby his or her first bath while in hospital, cotton wool is used to cleanse the baby’s face, especially around the eye area. Cotton wool is multi-purpose as it is can also be used as a replacement for wet wipes during diaper changes.

Toiletries Pack all necessary toiletries such as soap, anti-perspirant, a toothbrush and toothpaste. When choosing your soaps and lotions to carry to the hospital, it’s a good idea to carry those which are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. This is because babies have very sensitive skin which may be affected by any harsh chemicals used on mummy’s skin.

Packing for Baby Clothing It may be fun while packing the bag to think about the very first outfit you want your baby to wear. Many modern mummies now opt for onesies with fun messages on the front with hats and socks to match. It is recommended, however, that whichever styles or colours you choose, make sure they are long-sleeved as well as covering the baby’s legs and feet, since the delivery suite can be quite cold.

Moisteriser Make sure to also have petroleum jelly on hand to prevent diaper rash, as well as a gentle, hypoallergenic moisturiser for baby’s skin.

These are but a few of the items you need for your baby’s brief hospital stay. Happy packing!

What Not to Pack for Baby: Remember years ago when it was customary to see babies’ necks and bodies covered in powder? This is now a definite nono. In fact, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital instructs new mothers not to bring baby talcum powder into the labour and delivery ward at all. Its use is strongly discouraged due to its association with respiratory ailments, such as asthma, in young children.

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

3

A Look at

Breastfeeding Challenges & Benefits

by Andrea Jordan

T

hankfully, most new parents in Barbados see breast milk as the most natural and preferable nourishment for their new baby. Having said this though, the intention to breastfeed does not always translate into it being successful or easy. The benefits of breastfeeding are generally well known, and so too are the challenges, (arguably more so for the challenges!). Our job is to bridge the gaps between the benefits, desire and challenges of breastfeeding so that mothers always feel well supported and know exactly where to turn for help.

Clinical studies show the links with reduced breastfeeding rates and the chronic non-communicable diseases plaguing our island and the Caribbean region. Diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and certain childhood and adult cancers are all reduced by breastfeeding.

Such is the power of breastmilk, that it continues to be analysed and studied by scientists worldwide for its amazing healing properties.

A good example is the condition of diabetes, a disease with which

4 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

Barbados is all too familiar. Research has shown that early introduction (before 6 months) of infant formula, solid foods and cow’s milk are factors known to increase the incidence of type 2 diabetes in later life. Results from various studies have also shown that exclusive breastfeeding for longer than five to six months is protective against type 2 diabetes, with some protection against type 1 also.

mother during NICU stay ……and the list goes on!

To be honest, when you are a breastfeeding mother, you could probably think of 1001 reasons to give up when you’re going through challenges such as any of the above; but something keeps you going and motivated to push through despite the difficulties.

Getting the help you need “That’s all well and good,” I hear you say, “but what about the real time issues we breastfeeding mothers have to face every day?”

Painfully sore and traumatised nipples Engorgement Low milk supply Thrush/yeast infection in the breast and babies mouth causing painful feeding Oversupply Baby not latching or refusing to suckle at breast Low or slow weight gain Fussy unsettled breast-feeders Pre-term or sick baby separated from

The role of the breastfeeding or lactation specialist is vitally important for improving the health of the nation, by helping mothers to breastfeed their babies for longer. This health service can be accessed in Barbados via the charity ‘The Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Foundation’(BCNF) , free weekly support group, or via a clinic or home-visit service with the private organisation ‘Best Beginnings & Beyond’.

This is a typical scenario from a breastfeeding consultation/home visit.

Shelly-Ann (fictional character) calls

No matter the challenges mothers face with breastfeeding, SUPPORT is always the answer in reaping the benefits/rewards and satisfying that deep desire. Let’s create a culture of breastfeeding support, one mother at a time!

reporting that her 10-day-old baby boy is feeding constantly and she now has sore, cracked and very painful nipples.

Shelly-Ann doesn’t know what to do; she really wants to breastfeed but it’s become too painful to continue; baby is “sucking all the time” so ‘obviously’ she’s not producing enough milk for him. Additionally, close family members strongly believe that baby needs more than mother can produce, and continuously say so!

Shelly-Ann is invited to the weekly community support group and with relief agrees to come, but also requests a home-visit for more immediate guidance. She learns during her consultation that painful, sore and cracked nipples are almost always the result of an incorrect latch, so she is taught exactly how to position the baby and shape the breast for a better latch

on. Using her new technique, there is no more pain, even if the nipples were bleeding.

Next, Shelly- Ann learns that her son is approaching his first ‘growth spurt’ stage. At around 10-14 days, he will be doing some extra growing, which means an increase in his nutritional requirements, therefore leading to extra feeding. This is his way of letting the breasts know how much more milk to make. Breastfeeding works on a demand-supply feedback loop. The more a baby sucks the more milk is made.

Shelly-Ann is now armed with vital information and a renewed confidence in her ability to breastfeed her baby successfully, which is further boosted by the opportunity to meet other new mothers in the weekly support group.

Recommendations from WHO state

that breast milk is all babies need for the first six months of life! No water, no food, no formula needs to be given at all unless medically indicated.

No matter the challenges mothers face with breastfeeding, SUPPORT is always the answer in reaping the benefits/rewards and satisfying that deep desire. Let’s create a culture of breastfeeding support, one mother at a time!

Andrea Bonita Jordan is a registered (freelance) Midwife, Breastfeeding Specialist, Managing Director of Rites Of Passage Midwifery Care Inc. and co-founder of two charities: The Breastfeeding and Child Nutrition Foundation (The BCNF charity # 1169) and Better Birthing in Bim (BBBim Charity # 1144)

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

5

Hott 95.3fm DJ Scott ‘Le Roc’ Headley with daughter Skylar

Daddy on Duty: What Children Need from their Fathers

By Camille Alleyne

O

ne evening, while waiting in queue at a commercial bank in Wildey, I glimpsed through the glass and saw a man with baby girl in arms and baby bag over shoulder. He was traversing the car park, quickly, as if eager to get home. She looked no more than three months old. He held her comfortably and securely, like a pro, supporting her spine in a way that made me assume that this was daddy’s daily duty.

6 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

The beautiful picture easily captured my imagination. I wondered if he was almost home, or if he had to travel further by bus to get there. I speculated as to whether he took the evening shift collecting his little darling, or if he handled morning drop-offs as well. I even realised that there was a possibility that he was a single dad. A few days later, I spotted him once again.

He was seated on a bench at a mall where I was shopping, capably shifting

her from shoulder to lap, and quietly and attentively speaking softly to her, from time to time.

So many characteristics describe dads on duty – love, attention, guidance, courage, protection, security and provision; with all of this and more, he leaves a legacy for his children to follow. Confucius said, “The father who does not teach his son his duties is equally guilty with the son who neglects them.” To be more accurate, I would add

“The male role is by nature one of authority. For many children, Daddy’s word is final - his command, discipline, views and actions are held in high esteem. What daddy says, goes! that a father influences both his sons and daughters, but in differing ways.

According to Shawn Clarke, CEO of Supreme Counselling for Personal Development, located here in Barbados, “The male role is by nature one of authority. For many children, Daddy’s word is final - his command, discipline, views and actions are held in high esteem. What daddy says, goes!

“In a household where a father is present to encourage, participate in, and positively communicate with his children, it is observed that there is generally a high quality of behaviour that emerges, an influence especially noted with boys.

“Having said that, we observe that to a great extent both boys and girls who live with father and mother, grasp concepts faster, seem more disciplined,

have a higher self-esteem, and appear braver and more confident than their counterparts.”

The certified counselor of 20 years continued, “It is sad that children of the incarcerated male are often aggressive, angry and delinquent. So there is room for dads to step up. We recognise that many fathers wish to be more involved and play a more significant role in their children’s lives, so all hope is not lost.

“Any father can become attentive and dutiful. I encourage these men to learn from older males of good character, who they wish to emulate.

Dads may equip themselves with special tools, in order to become more effective. Some organisations, like ours, organise parenting sessions that help in this process.”

Here are some easy duties for dads to undertake:

Communicate Encourage, praise, affirm and regularly engage in conversation with your children from birth. Use appropriate tones – for example, gentle for affirmation and serious tones for discipline. Have a special father-child time of week exclusively for you to bond with your child. Do an activity. Visit places. Serve in a charity together.

Discipline Be firm, fair and consistent. Listen carefully to the child’s point of view before making a judgement.

Show Affection Appropriate hugging and kissing has its place in the life of a dad on duty.

Love Unconditionally Love in words and deed - through the terrible twos and the challenging teens.

Loving our children is a deliberate act.

If a dad loves well, he rears confident children who will love themselves and others well.

The contribution of fathers ought to be celebrated. We salute all dads, especially those sentries who have never left their posts, the ones who reflect so aptly Corinthians 13:7, “love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres”.

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

7

Raising a

Caring & Compassionate Child Aijah’s Story by Camille Alleyne

C

ompassion may be described as the compound effect of both sympathy and empathy.

Sympathy is being sorry for another person’s hardship, resulting in comforting words. Empathy is deeper, whereby the empathetic person feels intense emotions in the same way as does the victim of the circumstance, resulting in acts of kindness.

Aijah Robinson-Pinder is an 11-yearold author, poet, board game creator, and the 2017 winner of the Joy to the World Essay Contest. She is also a caring and compassionate child, who, in spite of her various challenges has reached out to others in need. Parenting Today magazine couldn’t resist sharing her experiences with readers. Her mother, Rhonda Robinson, describes her daughter as having the ability to work and play independently, possessing a passion for creativity and being able to make positive decisions. According to Rhonda, she turns disappointments and mistakes into lifelong lessons, is focused and grounded, and displays admirable leadership abilities.

8 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

9

Aijah

just loves to help people. One day at the supermarket, Aijah prompted her mother to help an elderly lady, which led to them adopting the lady and her husband and assisting them and many other retired persons with errands.

10 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

At school, Aijah recognises the importance of respecting her class teacher and she looks out for fellow students by often sharing lunch or lunch money with them in times of need.

Birthday celebrations and other special occasions are exciting for

this youngster. She sees them as opportunities to create handmade cards and within them share heartfelt appreciation to those who have made a positive contribution to her life. Christmas is especially treasured as it is the time to share with those who are less fortunate.

“I am my mother’s guide and we are forever bonded as a team”. Rhonda is grateful to God for blessing her with passionate child.

During the Yuletide season, while at her past school, St Gabriel’s School, Aijah participated in the triple “T” project. Triple “T” stands for Toy, Tin, and Two dollars. A toy for the less privileged, a tin to make up special hampers of appreciation to auxiliary staff, and two dollars to contribute to the families in the nearby Henry’s Lane.

Aijah’s acts of kindness extend to the making of hampers during hurricane season and caring for the environment by way of recycling.

This young lady’s life, however, is not without adversity; but, adversity can give birth to compassion. Born prematurely at six months, she lost her twin brother at birth. More recently, Aijah cousin and aunt died, suddenly.

Around the same period of time, she was devastated by a tragic incident in which her mother suffered an electric shock at her place of work and lost the use of her dominant hand. In spite of these tragedies, Aijah was strong enough to focus on her mother’s rehabilitation, becoming her right hand ‘man’, so to speak.

Rhonda reminisces; “When sensing my frustration and anger at losing so much of my independence, Aijah would give me a hug, remind me that she loves me and sometimes surprise me with freshly baked cupcakes or breakfast in bed. Instead of being defeated, my daughter drew on her grandfather’s words, ‘Success is determined not by whether or not you face obstacles, but by your reaction to them. If you look at them as a contained fence, they become your excuse for failure. If you look at them as a hurdle, each one strengthens you for the next. We are Robinsons and Robinsons are always destined for greatness!’”

As a result of the crisis, Aijah admits, “I am my mother’s guide and we are forever bonded as a team”. Rhonda is grateful to God for blessing her with a compassionate child.

Aijah has written a book called First Fears in which she talks about overcoming fears; and she has created the board game, Penniless, that teaches money concepts.

Rhonda is touched by her daughter’s caring nature. She suggests five things that parents can do to instill a spirit of compassion into their children:

‘please’, ‘thank you’, and ‘you are welcome’, even in the home, allows our children to learn to respect the dignity of others.”

4. Label kindness and practise it.

“What is key,” Rhonda continues, “is that we must be considerate ourselves! As our children observe us, we trust that they aspire to emulate the exceptional qualities we demonstrate.”

1. Provide structure, discipline and values from a tender age.

Rhonda explains, “From birth, I had to focus on Aijah and give her the attention she needed, even though I was grieving for my son. Though challenging, it was necessary.

Children depend on us to remain the primary element of guidance in their lives.”

2. Develop healthy family bonds.

According to this amazing mum, “Relatives were and still are very involved in Aijah’s life as positive role models. These include her father Nigel, grandfather Ronald Robinson (Director of Ajax Construction Inc), her grandmother Joyce, aunt Yolanda, cousins and numerous other immediate and extended family members. Special mention must be made of her cousin Deshannon, who acts as a big brother. He is always available to her.”

3. Use manners as a connection between parent and child.

Rhonda agrees with Shawn Clarke, professional counsellor and CEO of Supreme Counselling for Personal Development, who had his say on this matter: “Using words like,

5. Most of all, we must shower our children with love.

It is interesting that Aijah does not view her endeavors as singlehanded achievements but extends credit to all who have contributed to her structured development.

Apart from family and relatives, she has watched others assist her mum and in doing so, have made an indelible mark on her young life. These include first-rate health care providers, like her outstanding doctor who administers excellent care and a good dose of inspiration with each visit; the remarkable therapist who aids her emotional recovery; Rhonda’s amazing friends who demonstrate selflessness as they lend a hand whenever necessary; and the Headmistress, Mrs Blackett, teachers and parents of the St Gabriel’s School, who constantly showed concern.

“Being the mother of a well-rounded and compassionate 11 year-old, has heightened my awareness of how integral such qualities are. Parents are the main influences in our children’s lives. If we adhere to and enforce the rules of raising compassionate children, their gratitude will run endless!”

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

11

Positive Parenting:

The Power of Words

By Vania Patrick-Drakes

C

an you think of any specific statements from someone to you that make you smile when you remember them? Are there any that sting? The capacity for verbal language is a powerful tool. If words can have a lasting impression on adults, imagine the significance of their impact on children.

Being a parent adds another dimension to life that may not have been fully anticipated. Yes, there was prior, theoretical knowledge of the need for food, diapers, and later on, text books and a shoulder to lean on. However, it’s a little bit different when this theory has to be put into practice.

How many mothers are familiar with this particular remark: Mom? Mom? Mom? Mom? Mom? Mom? Children-young and old-let’s be frank, can drive parents up a wall. Socks on the floor, snail’s pace getting ready for school, “talking back” as they get older (where did the rudeness and sarcasm come from?), slamming doors, failing to follow instructions although you “must have told them the same thing at least ten times already…”

12 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

Parenthood can feel incredible when all is calm. But when anger or frustration bubbles to the surface, harsh words can rise with it - words that can pierce, scar, demoralise and linger.

Parents can be children’s biggest influence, and their words have the power to affect children’s ‘core beliefs’-beliefs held of themselves and of other people. If Sue, for example, consistently hears mom using inappropriate language when speaking about a boss, how much more likely is Sue to feel empowered to attempt that language when speaking to or about figures of authority? If Christopher’s father laughs and tells him that his “head is hard” if he’s finding school work challenging, what message does that send and how could it affect Christopher’s esteem?

Parents’ words can have a deleterious effect not just on children’s self-concept and attitude, but also on their behaviour. Aggression, rudeness, withdrawal, disordered eating, promiscuity, and other risk-taking behaviours are creeping into many children’s realities, from as young as primary school. If a parent whenever angered resorts to

If a parent whenever angered resorts to shouting, insults and sarcasm, then the precedent is set for this behaviour to be perfectly modelled among peers, teachers, and even later on, in the world of work.

shouting, insults and sarcasm, then the precedent is set for this behaviour to be perfectly modelled among peers, teachers, and even later on, in the world of work.

Equally as significant are words spoken not to children directly, but within their presence. Too many students enter school counsellors’ offices haunted by the memory of a bitter fight between parents the night or nights before.

Fortunately, in the same way that words can be a weapon, they can also be used to build strength, to reassure, and to positively mould.

It is important to speak positivity into children’s lives. It is the job of parents to confidently say “yes, you can” when children exhibit self-doubt. Repeat that confidence in them often and speak positivity into their lives-it can be a vital source for them to lean on if ever they need it. Encourage them and acknowledge their efforts, even if their results are not necessarily what was hoped for.

It is also the job of parents to remain mature and in control of their temper, even while disciplining. Biting one’s tongue and briefly stepping away during a moment of frustration is not conceding defeat-during that step-away moment, the issue is not going to disappear. Calming down and approaching the situation again when more level-headed, demonstrates selfcontrol, positive conflict-resolution skills, and gives children themselves a chance to cool off and hopefully get their thoughts together in a more cohesive and respectful manner.

Finally, it is important for parents to be mindful about the words they use to describe themselves. Encouragement, forgiveness and kindness towards self is a great example of how children should treat themselves both now, and in the future.

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

13

Press Pause on

Poor Gaming Habits

By David Hinkson

A

ccording to a documentary I watched recently, videogames as we know them began in the 1950s when scientists were ‘’fiddling around’ with an oscilloscope and created a rudimentary tennis game. Years went by and as the technology became more refined, Atari introduced the first commercial videogame, “Pong”, based on this early experiment, in 1972.

If you grew up in the late 1970s and early 80s, this game, as well as “Space Invaders” (capitalising on “Star Wars” and other space battle movies that were big hits in that era), Pac Man and the others that followed, were firm favourites, and videogame arcades were a fun place to hang out. And yes,

14 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

videogames were addictive from the very beginning. Today’s games are even more so, as they are far more realistic in terms of the graphics, colours and sound effects, and are much more specialised in terms of catering to different age groups and sexes. Not only that, they are a mere download away on your tablet or Smartphone.

And that is why they have become an even greater cause for concern. There is evidence that prolonged exposure to violent videogames or movies can cause people to become immune to violence in real life. And in many games you score points based on how many people you kill, making it a “badge of honour” of sorts.

Physical side effects include obesity, since apart from the Wii set up where you move around as you play, they are generally sedentary in nature, and as you play for prolonged periods of time you’ll be reaching for the snacks as you play, which may not always be the healthiest choices.

Another one is eye strain from staring at a computer or television screen intently, and it can also lead to pain and numbness in the hands, wrists and arms.

Sitting in a hunched position on a couch or at a computer may result in bad posture or sore muscles in the back, shoulders, neck and arms. In extreme cases, people may also develop skin problems like chafing, warts or ulcers on the hands and fingers.

Children copy what they see, and adults these days are constantly checking a screen of some sort. However, the same way we must be vigilant with what we look at, we must do the same, and then some, where our children are concerned. KidsHealth.org offers some ideas on how we can cultivate healthy gaming habits.

1.

Stock any rooms with a television, computer, or videogame console with plenty of other non-screen activities, such as books, puzzles, toys or board games to encourage children to do something else to “rest their eyes” from the screen, and keep them in a place where you can monitor your children as they use them.

2.

Introduce screen time as an ‘incentive’ of sorts; that is, let them play a game for a half-hour or so after completing their homework or chores, or leave it for the weekends only.

3.

Like movies and TV shows, videogames have ratings to indicate when they contain violence, strong language, sexual elements or other content inappropriate for children.

Ratings range from EC (Early Childhood), suitable for children three years and older, to AO (Adults Only). There is usually an online demo; check it out before purchasing or downloading the game for your children. It may have a relatively “tame” rating or claim it is suitable for your child’s age, but as the one setting your child’s moral compass, you have the final say. There are also enthusiast websites and magazines that review the latest games on the market.

4.

Help your children to get perspective on the games. For example, you might notice that your child acts “hyper” or more aggressive after playing a particular game. If so, discuss it with them and help them to understand that what is portrayed on the game is different from what happens in real life - and of course, in the real world there are consequences for some of the behaviours glorified on the screen.

5.

Have the whole family take a screen break! Nothing beats a day of fun at the beach, a ‘field trip’ to a museum or other place of interest, a park, or even staying in, turning off the TV, bringing out the snacks or a pizza and playing a board game as a family.

Videogames are constantly updated, but quality time with their parents and siblings is something children treasure all their lives.

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

15

Snacks for Kids

By Victoria Cox

SNACKS! An important part of the day for all children (and adults too).

Planning tasty but healthy snacks for your children helps to ensure that they are getting enough energy to grow Once a child is at least one year, they should be offered the opportunity to eat every 2 to 3 hours, which for many families will look like breakfast, snack, lunch, snack and finally, dinner! It is important to have scheduled snack times, rather than allowing your children to nibble or graze all day long, as they may then have no appetite when it is actually time

Fruit

for a meal. So depending on the age of the child, chat about snack times, and let them know that between snacks and meals they will be encouraged to only have water.

The same way we want children to eat balanced meals, we also want them to eat balanced snacks. Remember, children have small stomachs but big nutritional requirements, so avoid filling them up on “junk food” snacks that offer “empty calories”. Instead, make every bite count by ensuring both meals and snacks are highly nutritious…and here’s how.

Vegetables

Dairy

Grains

Apples Carrots Milk Bread Bananas

Celery

Watermelon Broccoli

Planning Nutritious Snacks A balanced and satisfying snack should include at least two or three foods per snack, combining options from different food groups. Including a variety of food groups is a simple way to make sure the child is getting enough vitamins and minerals.

The following table highlights five important food groups and some suggestions to try with your children:

Meat & Alternatives Chicken

Yogurt Biscuits/crackers Turkey Cheese Rice

Fish

Oranges Corn

Pasta

Eggs

Mangoes

Cereal

Nuts & Seeds

Strawberries

16 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

Legumes

Practical Healthy Tips & Tricks So…we know that it is important to include a variety of foods from different food groups, but here are some additional tips and tricks to keeping snacks healthy.

Avoid deep fried or greasy foods, such as fish cakes, French fries etc. You can call these “sometimes foods”; only to be offered to children occasionally as they are high in calories but have little in the way of valuable nutrition.

Offer a fruit or vegetable as part of every snack if possible. If your child is hesitant about snacking on vegetables, pair them with a yummy dip or sauce that is based on a flavour he/she enjoys, e.g. peanut butter.

Limit processed meats like corned beef, ham or luncheon meat. Instead, offer your child a hard-boiled egg or some peanut butter with their crackers.

Limit snack foods with lots of added sugar; if you’re unsure whether a purchased snack contains added sugar, check the ingredient list. The higher up sugar falls on that list, the more added sugar that food contains. Instead, sweeten foods naturally with fruit e.g. add some mango or berries to some plain yogurt. You can take this a step further by blending the yogurt with the fruit and freezing the mixture to make popsicles.

Avoid sugary drinks, including juice.

If given the option, it is always a good idea to choose eating a piece of fresh fruit instead of drinking juice. If you do give your child juice, opt for 100% fruit juice and only serve a small 4 oz portion at a time.

Try These.

Here are a few dietitian-approved snacks ideas to help you with your planning: Slice of whole wheat toast and peanut butter Fresh fruit salad and a cup of milk Whole wheat crackers and sliced cheese or a boiled egg Apple slices and peanut butter Plain yogurt with fresh or frozen berries (try turning this into a smoothie – no extra sugar needed.)

Carrot and celery sticks with hummus Homemade trail mix: combine some nuts, seeds and fruit Small bowl of high fibre, low-sugar cereal with milk Raw vegetable slices + a ranch-style dip (try making your own from plain yogurt.)

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

17

Ayurvedic food and sleep routines for children

by Rosemarie Layne

W

e all know that no two children are the same, and – try as you may – you can’t change their essential nature. They may be quick or slow learners, laid back or competitive, creative or logically oriented. As parents, you can learn how to relate to your children better and assist them in reaching their full potential.

Dr Fred Travis, with over 75 papers on the neuroscience of consciousness and brain development, explains that in Ayurveda, a traditional health system, children’s tendencies and preferences are based on different body types. The latest findings in brain development provide insights into children’s abilities at different ages, and combining ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience gives rise to the brain/body type theory.

In Travis’ book, co-authored with Dr. Keith Wallace, Dharma Parenting: Understand Your Child’s Brilliant Brain for Greater Happiness, Health, Success, and Fulfillment, he says that knowing children’s brain/body types “can help … anticipate and adapt to their needs and keep them in balance so they can grow to meet life’s challenges.”

Identifying your child’s brain/body type Vata brain/body type – like the wind, always moving and in flux These children are sensitive, restless and creative, processing information rapidly. This makes the Vata child a fast learner, interested in many things, but he/she is also easily overwhelmed with too much information. They are easily distracted, especially if out of balance, so may lose focus and make mistakes, or wander off before completing a task.

Pitta brain/body type – like fire, brilliant and warm This type is dynamic, strong-willed

18 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

and curious. The Pitta brain’s processes information easily, while also focusing on details. Emotionally, the Pitta child’s warmth can be seen as kindness and compassion, or as anger if inflamed.

Kapha brain/body type – like the earth – steady and supportive Calm and kind, this type processes information more slowly, but is extremely reliable and accurate.

Although Kaphas are slow learners, they think very methodically. They are also the most emotionally stable type, and enjoy supporting and helping those around them.

Feeding for types: While all children need the full spectrum of proteins, essential fatty acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, you can optimise your child’s diet based on his/her specific type:

Vata Vata brain/body types have an erratic appetite. Keep this child balanced with warm, comforting foods that are easy to digest: nutritious soups and stews, hot cereals, hearty grains and natural beverages. They should avoid raw vegetables and crisp, dry foods such as popcorn or packaged snacks.

Vatas’ digestion is often not very strong, so dinner is best at least two or three hours before bedtime. Otherwise, their metabolism will remain high, keeping them from falling asleep.

Pitta These have very hearty appetites, so keep them calm with frequent meals and snacks. Cool foods and drinks help control their inner heat. Pittas have strong digestion, so they can eat the heavier foods (pasta, creamed potatoes) other types have to avoid. However, they should avoid hot spices.

Kapha This type also has a strong appetite, but, unlike Pittas, can eat late or miss a meal. They really delight in food, so ensure they don’t overeat. Kapha’s solidity is balanced by spicy and light, dry foods. They should avoid cold foods such as ice cream and heavy foods such as creamed potatoes, yogurt or butter.

massycard.com

What if your children are different types?

Since it’s not feasible to prepare three separate meals, you can first consider the weather. If it’s rainy, they will all benefit from warm food - soup, whole-grain pasta, sweet potato fries with steamed vegetables or hot cocoa. In summer when it’s particularly hot, you can cool them down with lemonade, nourishing smoothies and fresh fruit.

Next, look at their stress levels - whether one child may be under more pressure than the others. There may be an upcoming test, competition or performance, or one child may be fighting a bug. These situations make them more vulnerable, so at these times ensure you have a menu that supports the particular child’s brain/body type.

CREDIT ONLY

YOUR MASSY CARD CAN Introducing Our Newest Credit Partners

Bedtime routines for types: Vata As this type is sensitive and gets over-stimulated by highcharged movies and video games, turn off all videos an hour before bedtime.

Vatas, particularly, need a set bedtime routine. Begin early with a warm, soothing bath using Vata pacifying aroma oils.

Read an inspiring and calming story, or play soft music. Do everything you can to create a quiet and inviting environment before trying to get this child to sleep.

Pitta This type finds it much easier to sleep than Vatas. Since they thrive on physical activity, if busy during the day, they will easily fall asleep. The only challenge is that their active mind may have difficulty shutting down. End any stimulating television shows, games or homework well before bedtime. If not, they may awaken full of energy during the night.

A good technique for Pitta children is to recount a long, rambling bedtime story where almost nothing happens. This captures their attention without providing any stimulus for the keen mind to engage, so they can sleep.

UNIFORM, SHOES & SCHOOL SUPPLIES Get everything your child needs for the new term and earn Massy Points.

Kapha Sleep comes naturally for this type. They fall asleep easily and have a far better chance of uninterrupted sleep than the others, and usually extend naps longer.

One drawback with this type is waking up in the morning.

Entice them out of bed with an appetising breakfast or a fun activity. Since Kaphas types love to help, you can ask them to assist with breakfast.

Get more rewards

Swipe, Earn & Save!

*Rosemarie Layne is a holder of an Associate Degree in Mass Communication and is a certified Early Childhood Educator. She is also a private language tutor, teaching children and adults.

Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

19

Easy Transitioning to

Secondary School

By Cecilia Murray

T

ransitioning from primary to secondary school can be a stressful time for young children. For many class four students, secondary school stirs up many feelings of anxiety, ranging from excitement, anticipation, to fear and anxiety. It is natural for students to have numerous concerns relating to the new school environment, which may relate to the procedural, social life academic changes. For these students, they are now small fish in a big pond. These concerns can be reduced within the first few weeks of secondary school for some students, while others can last several years and beyond.

During the final year of primary school, or the first form of secondary school, educators and parents should prepare students for a successful transitioning by addressing the concerns associated with secondary school life. Transition to secondary school often coincides with important social, emotional and physiological changes in the lives of pre-adolescents.

The Ministry of Education, Technology and Human Resource Development, the National HIV/AIDS Commission and the Barbados Family Planning Association coordinate the Transition to Secondary School programme (T2S), which addresses the concerns of students

20 Parenting Today | AUGUST 2018

who have transitioned to all of the secondary schools across Barbados.

The compulsory Transition to Secondary School programme successfully focuses on the needs of this target group; however, more can be done in the long-term by other social systems (school, church, community, family) to strengthen and reduce the challenges experienced by the nation’s children, especially the most vulnerable.

T2S Topics HIV/STI Prevention Bullying and Conflict Drug Awareness Gender Issues Human Sexuality

Transitioning Tips Work Load – Help students to plan and organise new work load which can be extremely challenging.

Monitor Stress – The new environment, work load and peer pressure can add to stress. The daily schedules, new rules, and procedures students are expected to adhere to in secondary school can also be overwhelming.

Consistency – Inquire about daily activities from day one.

New Relationships – Parents should get to know all new friends.

Social Changes – First form students are concerned with keeping primary school friends, making new friends and teacher relationships, along with extracurricular activities, so be patient.

Decision Making – Take the opportunity to encourage opportunity in decision making.

Emotional Support – Young students are vulnerable and self-conscious, and often experience unpredictable mood swings.

Physical Development – Be aware of body changes and discuss or request the assistance of an expert to explain these adolescent changes with the preadolescents.

Support – Support hobbies and activities by attending activities on occasion or as requested.

Monitor behaviour – Monitoring new behaviours in children is especially important at this time.

The transition to secondary school is more complex than just developing orientation processes for students to become familiar with the school’s environment, personnel and programmes. The relationship between teachers, students, groups and the community are also important during transition. So, take note of these tips and let this September be one to remember!