Mind Over Matter Part 3 | 10 Jan, 2020

(Name withheld)

Ans: First of all, let me state that children are naturally adaptable. It just depends on the environment we provide them with. We as parents play the important role of enabling them to grow by creating a positive environment where all their varied needs are met and fulfilled. It is important to strike a balance between your work and your child's. I always believe that one should not totally change one's lifestyle just because you have a child now. This causes resentment many a time. Instead adjust your child's routine as per your work. As long as you both are spending time with the child, holding him, smiling to him, playing with him and keeping him comfortable. He is simply going to blossom and grow. Take care and enjoy the bliss of parenthood.

(Name withheld)

Ans: Children below 2 years should not be encouraged to view television. Instead encourage them to participate in interactive activities which promotes brain development. This could range from talking, playing, singing, and reading. It is recommended to read aloud to children for 15 minutes per day. It is advisable to limit children's TV time to no more than 1 to 2 hours per day. And do encourage quality programme viewing. Do not place TV in children's bedrooms.

(Name withheld)

Ans: Urination is involuntary for infants and young children. Most children achieve some degree of bladder control by 4 years of age. Usually children achieve daytime control first and then nighttime control follows gradually. Bedwetting before 7 years is not a matter of concern as such. At this age, your child may still be developing nighttime bladder control. Please be patient and handle the issue sensitively. The more you push him to achieve night time control the more stressed he will be. Reducing fluids before bed and having your son go to the bathroom when starting the bedtime routine (and again just before sleep) will often help reduce bed-wetting.

(Ms. Gariasi Dutta, MSW (TISS) is a Psychological Counsellor at down town hospital, Guwahati. She may be contacted at 98640-55560 or mail at dutta.gariasi@gmail.com.)