Q: My 5-year-old sometimes throws tantrums if our maid touches her when she is getting ready. How should I respond? Naila
A: Children observe others in their environment and copy their behaviour. If other family members are disrespectful of the house-help or loudly verbalise their anger, children pick it up. Gently but firmly teach socially acceptable ways of expressing disagreements or frustrations. Ignore her when she is throwing a tantrum. When she is in a happy, relaxed state, explain, to her that her behaviour really pains you and is not acceptable.
Q: My 3-year-old has little value for things. For instance, she leaves unfinished chocolate around. How do I help her value them? Mrs. Ajmal
A: Children learn value from the people they love and admire. If you and your husband do not waste, then your husband do not waste, then your child will learn automatically. For instance, make it clear that she will not get another chocolate till she finishes her previous one. Save the one which she has left and give it to her when she asks for another. Take the support of your other family members also.
Q: My 5-year-old daughter has learnt a new turn of phrase – “It’s my choice”. So everything becomes a mini tug-of-war. How do I handle this? Aneesa
A: Next time give her two choices only. Tell her that as her mother, it’s your choice and she can select from only the two options you have given her. Use humour as a tactic. When a tug-of-war starts, say with drama, “It’s my choice”. Be warm and firm, and this phase shall pass too.
Q: Can you tell me what creates iron deficiency in children? Naeem Khan
A: By and large, parents in our country still put a lot of stress on milk in the child's diet even once the child has started eating proper food and is getting calcium from a lot of other sources. As a result of such an overemphasis of milk the children don't take in enough iron-rich food. Actually, if about 80% food is given as compared to 20% milk then the chances of iron deficiency are much less.
Q: My baby is three months old and I am nursing her currently. My question is that should I feed my baby when I have fever? Amina
A: Yes, the only contra indications to nursing are when the mother suffers from diseases such as open tuberculosis or when she has a heart condition or any other serious medical conditions which precludes nursing.
Q: My child is always developing nappy rash. How can I avoid her from getting rashes? Naheed
A: Exposure to air is the single most important treatment. Wash the affected area with flowing water rather than with wet cotton. Do not rub but pat gently with a soft cloth to dry it. Talcum powder should not be used as it blocks pores. Use petroleum jelly and finally, change nappies frequently.
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