Friday, April 22, 2022

Phenoxyethanol in baby products - Is it really safe?

Phenoxyethanol in baby products - Is it really safe?



Parenting overall can be a combination of delightful, fun, frustrating, exhausting, demanding, and fulfilling experiences. Despite the constant challenges, you might be facing as a parent, it might have never occurred to you to give up on trying and searching for the best for your child. That parental feeling to be the best and give the best, is perhaps what keeps every parent on toes.

 

It’s not even funny, the amount of planning and research we as parents do. And it starts even before the baby is born. From planning the child's nursery to planning for their future, a parent is constantly on the lookout for ‘the best’. If we look at the larger picture of  why we as parents do so much research, it’s  because we want our kids to be safe and happy. And by safe, we mean both mentally and physically.

 

Coming to safety, there has been a huge revolution in terms of how conscious today’s new -age parents are when selecting skincare products for their babies. However, with the market filled with so many products, it can be overwhelming to shop for skincare products for the little one. Especially when there is a long ingredient list with scientific names or absolutely no ingredient list at all.

 

There are so many ingredients like phenoxyethanol that are potentially harmful to your baby's health. Let us understand the world of phenoxyethanol and why it’s a big no-no.

About Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol is an ingredient used in cosmetic products serving as a preservative. It’s an olily sticky substance. Though considered as a safe product, for it prevents fungi, bacteria and other yeasts growing in the product. There has been a lot of discussion, questioning it’s safety in skin care products.

 

Phenoxyethanol and it’s adverse effects

 

In 2010, Journal of Investigation Allergology and Clinical Immunology, had published a case study of a woman, who developed allergic reactions in the form of hives and anaphylaxis after using a skin care product with phenoxyethanol. There are also quite a few cases and reports of phenoxyethanol causing contact dermatitis i.e common skin irritation.

 

 

In 2008 there was a warning issued by Food and Drug Administration (FDA), for nipple cream containing phenoxyethanol and other preservative. Evidently it can cause a high risk of respiratory depression and also effect central nervous system of the nursing infants. Time and again, research papers and reports have tried to highlight the negative effects of phenoxyethanol, marking it at the top of the list of harmful ingredients.

 

It’s extremely important to be a well-researched parent and select products for yourself and your child carefully. 

 

Conclusion:

It’s extremely important to read ingredients list of baby skincare products and do an in depth research about it. As the world is shifting towards more sustainable journey, there are now a lot many clean brands.

It’s time we say goodbye to chemicals like phenoxyethanol and be more mindful about not just what babies eat but also what we pamper their skin with.


Much love and more to come!


TKV




All content on this blog belongs to the author and cannot be replicated or reproduced without permission. 


 

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Protinex and the need to increase protein in our diets

 I’ve never been the healthiest eater – and that’s an understatement. My taste buds are incredibly partial to fast food and sugar. The irony of this being that I have worked for a decade at this point in health care. I’ve spent years working with cancer patients, and then post that I was involved in running outpatient care centers for pediatric and adult populations in the Bronx in New York. I would eat what was available to me, and neglected my strong family history of breast cancer and diabetes – both lifestyle related issues. However, in my early 20s, this didn’t bother me at all. 

With my kids though, once they were born, I made sure that their early foods was extremely nutritious and that I introduced them to every vegetable. My son was born in New York and I vividly remember that at some point he had tried six different types of squashes. I tried my best to make sure that they made healthy choices, inspite of hiding in the kitchen and adding sugar into my own diet. This worked well until the pandemic and then everything had to change – for two main reasons. The first one being that we started eating family meals – and my kids were watching everything I ate. Kids learn first and foremost from what they see – and so it was important for me to set a good example for them and eat the same things I was making them eat. And I wanted them to eat well. The pandemic caused panic, but it made mothers all over focus on what they were feeding their kids. In many ways the pandemic rendered us helpless, but what we could do and could control – was our immunity, and making sure that we gave it the building blocks it needed to be able to put up a good fight. This was key for ourselves and for our children. And that was when it finally changed for me.  Late night delivery orders were replaced with healthy home cooked meals, my morning breakfast became fruits, and my lunches often had avocadoes and other vegetables in it or even sabji and roti – which wouldn’t touch my plate before. And I shored up my diet with a lot more protein. 

 

Infact, I spent a lot of time doing research, and what stood out to me the most was how essential proteins really are. Here are a few reasons to add more protein to your diet (and to your family’s diet):

1.     Proteins build your immunity: Proteins are the backbone of the body’s immune system, as they are made of amino acids. These play a primary role in making up the cells like leukocytes, cytokines and phagocytes that are necessary for our immune system and are warriors in the fight against diseases. A strong immune system is the most important thing in a time like this.

2.     Proteins increase strength: Proteins are the building blocks of our muscles. They help us maintain muscle mass and even promotes muscle growth when combined with strength training. Therefore, if you are physically active, or even if you plan to be, a good protein diet goes a long way in giving you the strength that you need to meet your goals. 

3.     Protein is good for your bones: Most long-term studies indicate that protein, including animal protein, has major benefits for bone health. People who eat more protein maintain better bone health as they age and have a much lower risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Eating plenty of protein and staying active is the best way to reduce the risk of bone issues. 

4.     Protein reduces cravings: A food craving isn’t about hunger but is about your body needing a reward. These tend to be very hard to control. However, increasing your daily protein intake is one of the best prevention methods not just to reduce craving but to reduce late-night (and unhealthy) snacking too. This happens by mediating dopamine, which is the main neurotransmitter involved in controlling habits and even addictions. 

5.     Boosts metabolism and increases fat burning: Our body uses calories to digest food and convert what it can into nutrients. This is often referred to as the thermic effect of food. Not all foods are made equal when it comes to the thermic effect and protein has a much higher thermic effect than carbs. Infact, protein intake can boost metabolism and increase the calories you burn by 80-100 calories more per day. Some studies have shown even higher outcomes than this. 

In addition to all this, protein even lowers your blood pressure and helps your body repair itself post an injury. So protein really is the best ingredient to focus on when looking at repairing or shoring up your supplies. The opposite though in terms of effects and harm is sugar. It’s also important to make sure that when you are consuming protein – that there are no hidden sugars because sugar can reduce your immunity on an immediate basis. The body gets so busy burning it off, that the positive effects of other nutrients get lost. Just one of the many reasons to add protein to yours and your children’s diets!




 

Knowing all this, caused me to shift my morning routine and daily meal plan to include more protein, and to be more regular and consistent with my workouts which wasn’t so easy while shuffling the added pressures of homeschooling. I had to realign my days and my food habits to make sure to include the following:

1.     Adequate sleep: Atleast 8 hours for every mom, which often isn’t possible all at once, especially if you are a new mom. My kids are 4 and 7 and I still wake up multiple times to check on them (if they haven’t checked on me first). However, getting to bed early has given me a little more time to sleep which helps the next morning.

2.     Enough water: I try to get through a gallon a day of water a day (4 litres). Hydration is key for everything from your skin to your metabolism functioning the way it should.

3.     Time to breathe: Some days this is impossible, atleast until the kids are asleep. However, I try to start my day with a few minutes to myself. Even if that’s a quick drive after my workout, a song I want to hear, or silence while I try to make a to do list for my day. The key to sanity and even to patient parenting is being able to prioritize yourself and your own needs to because only then will you have the mental sustenance you need to get through your day. 

4.     Vitamins: Our daily diet needs to include 10 essential nutrients and vitamins like Vitamin B1 and B2, Vitamin A,C,E, B12 and Folate to support healthy development and immunity. All of these are available in Protinex Tasty Chocolate which I have recently added to my diet. Plus, it has zero added sugar so I can avoid unnecessary sugars, while still drinking something delicious! 

5.     Adequate protein intake: I’ve added in a supplement to help me shore up my protein content and my protein requirement for the day is completely taken care of – by Protinex! It covers what you need for vegetarians and is a great add on even for non vegetarians like myself.

6.     Daily workout: Whether online or in person, this is something that I have to do everyday. Even if I’m tired or sore, I’ll get in a light Pilates workout, and on my more active days I’m working with weights or functional training. It resets me completely, and recharges too, plus it helps me get fitter and healthier, which is a great goal to have and to pass on to my kids! 

 

 

It’s so important, in times like these, to keep an eye on whats best for your family – and usually that’s you! So prioritize yourself too. Eating better is an easy way to do that and to invest in your own health too. Protinex India is innovative and can help you add in the nutrients you need into your diet. Plus, their unique Immuno Nutrient Calculator helps you calculate the nutrient levels in your daily diet. They also offer a free consultation and 30-day personalized diet plan with an expert nutritionist! Click here to try it today – http://bit.ly/TanyaKhubchandaniIG

  


Much love and more to come!

TKV

Tuesday, October 6, 2020

15 must have board games:

Hi everyone, 

I haven't written in a while, though I've been churning out a lot of video content, on Insta and on my IGTV - including parenting tips, activities for kids, dental hygiene etc etc - everything you can think of, is now on there. 

However, as you guys know, I love to write and communicate this way - more than anything, so I do have a few posts lined up and primarily based around questions I keep getting. One of them is - our favourite board games. We play a lot of different games and our favourites are many of the classics, but here's a list below. Because of the live stream discount market place I host on my Instagram @mommydiaries, I get to try a lot of new games, and these are some of the ones we come back to again and again. 

(Please note, none of these are sponsored or have any associations with the brand. I am an amazon affiliate though and have included the amazon.in and amazon.com links for each product.)

We play a lot of board games and they are great for conceptual understanding, thinking, logic, even mathematics practice, and also - they are just so much fun! My kids are 6.5 and 4 - just for context, but I have included appropriate ages for each game.

15 must have board games:

(in no particular order)

1.  Battleship:

Yes, the age old game! It's fabulous for teaching them grids, maths, and an intro to statistics. My 6 and a half year old is able to play this well, though assisted (in teams), he has been playing for atleast a year.

Click to shop Battleship - Amazon.in or amazon.com


2. Monopoly:

How great is this game for teaching the little one math! 

We started with Monopoly deal, and then built up to junior monopoly. My 6 year old can now play the actual full game though, as long as it takes. 

It's fabulous for teaching them to practice mental math, about commodities, and about finances. Very few games (or even schools), teach these to our kids but these are important life skills. 

Monopoly deal (cards): Amazon.in or amazon.com

Junior monopoly: Amazon.in or amazon.com

Monopoly: Amazon.in or amazon.com



3. Mousetrap

Such a fun game, and for all ages! This is a STEM game, which explains concepts to them, while they build the board and put it together, and is a game for complete family fun. Kiara can play it unassisted, so I would say 3 plus is the ideal age! 

It's the first thing we do every Sunday morning, and has been for a while!

Mousetrap on Amazon.in or on Amazon.com.


4. Sudoku family

This game is ideal for 4 years and up, as per the box, but I think while the concept can be introduced at 4, they get more confident with it around 5. 

It's an intro to sudoku game, which has several different cards and levels and they have to put in the missing cards. Each family has to be complete, hence "family" sudoku.

The link to


amazon.com is here (they ship worldwide). It is occasionally available on amazon.in too, but currently is not. (Try with this one, if you want something local in India). 


5. Tension

This is a general knowledge game, where even my husband and I are learning answers to things we didn't previously know. However, even Kiara is able to answer questions, and learn from it. I would say 5 plus is the ideal age, it's a fun family game.

It's actually a naming game. Like name 10 things in the category of.... and each time or person gets points accordingly.

It's on amazon.in, is imported by jesters chest (so click here for jesters as amazon is not always available), and is also on amazon.com.


6. Scrabble

This age old game, is to English what monopoly is to math. Plus, the full edition comes with a little dictionary that Riaan keeps beside him to help him look up words. He has recently started playing the full edition, but they do have quick cards and a junior version too. 

The junior version is perfect once they are recognising letters, and the full version, once they are starting to spell (the cards too). 

Scrabble Dash/ Slam cards on amazon.in or amazon.com

Scrabble Junior on Amazon.in or amazon.com

Scrabble on amazon.in or amazon.com

7. Zingo 

This is a super fun game to work on sight word recognition with pre readers, and even early readers. Ideal for ages 4 and up. 

It's like bingo in a way, everyone has their own cards and has to match the words to the words on their cards. The first one with a full house wins. 

My kids can play this again and again. I would say 3 plus is the ideal age, as Kiara has been playing it for a year even though she can't read, she manages with the images. 

Zingo on amazon.in or amazon.com



8. Animals N' Transport

This is by the lovely The Story Merchants. You have to put together a puzzle and use it as a board to move forward in the same. Each person also has a vehicle card that they have to fill with their animal passengers, and the person who gets all their animal cards fill in first, wins. 
This is ideal for ages 3 to 7, and works on their mathematical skills too.

Shop Animals N Transport on amazon.in


9. Monkey Bingo

This is the last Bingo format board game I'm showing you - but we clearly love this. The 3 I've spoken about are all for different ages and solve different purposes/ hone in on different skills. What I love most about games in this format is that the kids can play it with minimal supervision from me!! Specially monkey bingo, my son can supervise this well enough for both of them and I don't have to be involved at all.

They literally have to just match the animal card to the animals on their cards and put a token on it. 

For monkey bingo on amazon.in click here, and for amazon.com click here. 


10. Skola word wheel

This isn't exactly a board game, but was super useful when my son started to spell, and is still a great way to practice phonics words, and 3 to 5 letter spellings with him. 

The picture explains it all, and it comes with a book full of words you can spell with the wheel. 

See the Skola Toys Word Wheel on amazon.in or on amazon.com.


11. Zoo Zone

Zoo zone is a game I was sent by a new brand to test, and the kids love it so much it has become a regular feature in our playtime. 

It's basically a game where each person goes to different territories and has to make food chains. So in each territory you have to have a carnivore, a herbivore, and a plant. Whoever makes 2 food chains first, wins. Each territory has its own currency, with which you can buy a card and try your luck to make your chains. 

It's ideal for 6 plus, though Kiara is able to play along too (with help of course). 

Click here for the amazon.in link.


12. Terra Loop

There are a stack of board games that I got to try from a brand called My Luma World. I'd love to talk to you about all because each game was unique and taught different mathematical skills, academic skills and moral lessons. However, I've picked my two favourites age wise and skill wise.

Terra Loop is fun, and is a game that teaches kids the concept of saving money. In addition to multiplication, addition and basic math. It also teaches them patience, and about winning and losing. It takes about 30 minutes to play and is really fun. We have played it several times and it's a new favourite. Its ideal for 7 and up!

Terra Loop on Amazon.in.


13. Galaxy Raider

Another fabulous game from My Luma world! This one is great for mathematical skills. 

You and your opponent have to use the cards you have been dealt, and the mathematical operation that comes up on the dice to take over moons and eventually planets. It's really fun, and ideal for kids who have learned or need to practice multiplication, addition, division and subtraction. Teaches mathematical concepts and about the solar system. It also teaches patience, and is a fun card game too! 

Get Galaxy Raider from amazon.in.


 14. Katamino

We love IQ games! There are several different types, and for a smaller travel kind we love IQ XOXO. But for a larger sized game that can even be played with 2 players, don't miss Katamino.

It's an IQ game where the challenges keep changing, and the player has to solve it.

Find it on amazon.in or amazon.com.


15. Ludo/ Snakes and Ladders combo

Have to end with a classic of course! And that's Ludo  because of the strategy and cognitive thinking it teaches our kids. Ideal is to get a reversible set that has snakes and ladders too (this is the best intro board game for any kid, as it teaches them to recognise numbers, teaches patience and also teaches them to accept failure, in small harmless doses).

Found a magnetic dual set on amazon.in  and on amazon.com!





It's not an easy choice! Short listing 15 games, from so many options. There are tons of smaller brands that have great games too but sell primarily through exhibitions etc at this point - so stay tuned to The bazaar hour every few weeks on my page. The schedule for rest of 2020, as of now is 

- October 24th, at 6PM

- November 8th, November 29th, December 6th and December 13th! It's a discount market place so our deals are limited in quantity and number, and on my Instagram @mommydiaries. 


Also, for more of our faves including card games and educational toys - don't miss our amazon recommendations page! 

Hope you enjoyed this! It's a question I get often, feel free to reach out with more questions!!

More to come!

TKV





All content on this blog belongs to the author and cannot be replicated or reproduced without permission.

The images on this particular article have been taken from Amazon, as part of the Amazon Influencer Program, and the associated links have been used. 




Wednesday, May 20, 2020

Common Questions about being pregnant in the time of Covid:

It's a weird and uncertain time of us all, regardless of location, social economic status, age etc. However, if you're pregnant it can be particularly stressful and even scary. Let's not dwell on that though, and instead - let's look at how you and your baby can get through this time, safely.

I recently did an Instagram LIVE, on COVID and pregnancy, with Dr. Vanshika Gupta Adukia of TherHappy.  To read more about her, click here. She is a certified lactation and birthing expert and a pelvic floor physiotherapist.
The live is also still available on IGTV, click here for part 1. and here (for part 2).


Here are some of the common pregnancy and COVID-19 questions we got, and their answers:

1. What appointments are absolutely necessary to step out for?
There were a number of questions about this one, but unfortunately regardless of which appointment you are up for - it depends on your doctor. They will evaluate your risk profile (of the pregnancy), and the stage you are at, and decide whether it is worth it. Make sure to ask where you have to go (and avoid hospitals if you can), choose a clinic visit instead, or even a home test if feasible.

2. Should I have an elective C section?
Having had 2 natural-ish deliveries (I say naturalish as there's nothing about shoving a cantaloupe size baby out of you that's natural), I would not advocate this unless necessary. Nor am I advocating it now. However, I bring it up because its a commonly asked question and something that you may need to keep in mind depending on how close you are to delivery and how bad things are in your area. If your doctor recommends it, based on availability and safety at the hospitals they work at, keep an open mind. It is something that you should go with your instinct on, or trust your doctor about. You can also ask if induction is an option, however, the success of this depends on several factors like the baby's station, and position, so it will ultimately be your physicians call. Do keep an open mind though.

3. Why is your immunity compromised during pregnancy?
Pregnancy doesn't necessarily weaken the immune system but it does change it. Some responses are stronger but many are different - the body is trained to change so that we do not view the foetus as an invader and attack it. Also, hormone levels do cause changes in our immune system. These do make us more susceptible to infections like Covid. Particularly, respiratory issues, can act up because the lungs tend to be compressed by the diaphragm, given the amount of space the growing child in your uterus is taking up. So those pregnant are considered to be at high risk do need to be even more careful at this time.

4. How do we boost immunity during pregnancy?
Be regular with your prenatal vitamins and add vitamin C (if your doctor allows it - which will depend on your reflux, if any). You can get the needed vitamins and boosters through food though - citrus fruits, bell peppers, ginger, almonds and yoghurt all work well for boosting immunity. Keeping an eye on your gut health also helps here.
Don't forget to capture your baby bump yourself!

5. What happens if I test positive while pregnant?
Well, the good news is that Covid isn't passed down vertically. Which means that your baby cannot catch it from you - while in utero. Your physician and everyone else around you can, and is likely to be more cautious, so do not be alarmed by this. Also, try and stay home and rest as much as you can during the isolation period. While the isolation will be the same as what everyone else goes through - your medications and treatment protocol will be different. Go with what your doctor says, and keep in mind that even something like steaming which is known to help, may not be safe for you (as it raises your body temperature). Your doctor will design your treatment protocol based on your risk, and how far along you are. Keep that in mind.

6. What if I live with someone who cannot stay home (or is an essential personnel)?
I have a close friend in this situation and it is not an easy situation to be in. I also know multiple pregnancy couples where they stayed separately initially so that she is not exposed to anything her husband picks up while going in and out of the house. That being said - this is not a luxury that everyone has, so if you do live with someone who has to get out, make sure they come home, don't touch anything and go straight for a bath - hot water bath. And that their clothes are washed separately, and utensils are kept separate too. They need to keep sanitising, as do you. Observe all necessary and possible precautions, including using a mask and gloves when needed.

7. How do I deliver if I test positive?
You can still deliver, but the doctors will take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and the team, so do not be astounded if you do not see the staff getting too close to you, or doing too many check ups. Keep in mind that if the staff gets sick, they can pass this on to your baby post birth, so it's in the best interest of your child too.

8. What are current hospital policies I should be aware of?
A lot of hospitals are not allowing visitors in, including your spouse, even at the time of delivery. This is really scary to many, however, this is an individual hospital policy, and as lockdown measures start to relax, this will eventually get better too. Do talk to your doctor though to make sure you have all you need, and you can even talk to the nursing staff and make sure they know what you need too (other than your spouse, unfortunately).
bigger and bigger...
9. Can I have family and friends visit the baby?
Whether you're in hospital or back at home - do avoid this. It's not easy, but it's in the best interest of you and your baby, at least right now. Once things start to slow down, and the numbers ease of then yes - people you know who are safe and have observed the lockdown can be welcomed by you. With masks and sanitiser in abundance of course.

10. Can I nurse my baby if I tested positive?
While you can't pass covid on to your baby in utero, you can pass it on to your newborn. So until you have retested and tested negative, it is better to pump and have someone else feed your baby than to feed directly. It can't be easy - having to stay away from your newborn, but it's extremely temporary in the long run of things so please take every precaution to protect your baby first.

11. Is all hospital staff being tested regularly?
No! Testing kits are in short supply and in most places they are only testing people who have symptoms (and majority of cases seem to not have any symptoms), so all hospital staff is not being tested. This did differ initially though based on hospital policy, though currently, due to government regulations only symptomatic cases are being tested.

12. What precautions can we take in the time of Covid-19?
The easiest way to know what to clean is to look at anything and everything that comes from outside as if it could be carrying Covid. Vegetables, fruits, staff, shoes, clothes, people, everything. Leave shoes outside the door, sanitise packages, handle things with gloves and masks, keep wipes and sanitiser at the door of your house, and make sure everything and everyone coming in is cleaned. Packages should be wiped down and left open for 4-5 hours before they are touched. It's not easy to be so vigilant, but when you are pregnant, it is definitely a necessity.

13. Can you order take out at this point?
A lot of people would say not to. I personally, at 9 weeks now, can't do without my one meal out a week - I consider it essential. So I would say this is a personal call, but if you are ordering out please be vigilant about cleaning everything, leaving it out and even reheating food as a precaution.

14. We are all home, is this the right time to conceive, or plan a baby?
After everything I've just written, I don't think it sounds fun to be pregnant right now.  More stressful, I would imagine, with concern about getting to the doctor, deliveries and appointments. I think a lot of us have to write off this year - financially and otherwise. Maybe best to wait, though if you are still keen, talk to your gynaecologist.

15. Is it okay to mourn the things I've lost like baby showers and a maternity photo shoot?
Yes, these are unusual and scary times to say the least. I went in to pre term labor the second time, (with a 2 and a half year old hoovering around), and had to delay and then finally cancel my maternity photo shoot (and a surprise baby shower that I didn't know about, but since I had one the first time around it was the photo shoot with my son and pups that I was upset about). So yes it's okay to mourn what you have lost, but its also great to pick yourself up and make the best of the time you have - do digital photo shoots (there are tons of videos on how you can do this, and also photographers who will work with you on FaceTime!), and you can have a virtual baby shower too. It's not ideal, but it will lift your spirits and in the long run be something that you will look back on (hopefully fondly).

soon! 

These are unusual and trying times - for everyone, but especially for you. Pregnancy can be nerve wracking without all the added stress of covid. However, this will all be over soon. The nightmare we are living through and your pregnancy too, and you will soon have your arms so full you won't be to think beyond that (for a little while). So take the time at home to plan, to rest to breathe and just to be you for a little while longer.


I hope this helps mamas, good luck to all and do feel free to reach out with questions!
Much love and more to come!
TKV




All content on this blog belongs to the author and cannot be reproduced or replicated without permission.

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

10 tips on homeschooling and staying sane through it:

As much as I love time with my kids, I never ever thought I would have to home school.  Frankly, if anything, the last 5 weeks have taught me that teachers get much less credit than they deserve, and that I don't have nearly as much patience as I thought I did. My kids are 6 and 3, so this isn't a test of my memory or mathematics skills as much, as it is of my patience and ability to juggle their tasks and my own.

Many of us are in the same boat, I hear it's easier with older kids who don't need constant super vision - but I'm sure each age has it's own set of challenges that it comes with.

It's not been easy though, I've lost my patience way more times than I can count. My son tends to zone off and day dream and my daughter is a definite distraction because her work is colouring and painting and more fun. Regardless, as we approach our 6th week, I think I've developed some coping skills to atleast keep myself sane, as we get through the rest of time (however long that may be).

Below are some tips that I hope help you, as I know they have helped me.

For tips on social distancing with children, and keeping them busy during the same, click here.


10 tips on staying sane through home school:

1. Set a fixed start time:
This doesn't have to be unreasonably early, or as soon as the assignments come. It's easier to start as soon as you feel sane. So, we start at 10.45 every morning. It gives me some time to laze around the kids, and it gives the kids time to play before we dig in (and also keeps bedtime a little more relaxed, since let's be real here - bedtime is currently all over the place).
From @mommydiaries on Insta - how I feel by the end of the day



2. Set your own start time before hand, to review:
If you sit first and go through what's due (or what you have to print), the kids have less time to sit around and wait and be restless. So, I usually sit down 15 mins before the kids so that they are not getting jumpy and impatient before we even start.


3. Step away from some of the assignments:
This is a sanity suggestion - for you! I didn't do this initially and then I felt I was screaming the whole 3 hours. Now, I know that when he's copying out math or English, I'm better off sitting elsewhere and then making him rewrite what I need him to, than sitting next to him and getting frustrated if he's distracted, being untidy, or making errors while copying.


4. Don't helicopter:
Make sure you check the assignments before they (or you) submit, but try not to look over everything while it's happening. I realized that I was prompting him, instead of letting him get there, with my own impatience. So it's better for them to, if you step back. And they will call you as soon as they need you - a 1000 times, and even if they don't need you.


5. Divide and conquer:
Regardless of whether you are also a working mom, trying to juggle your own tasks and calls, or a stay at home mom, or even a home schooling mom - crisis schooling, which is really what this is - is a whole other ball game! So, ask your partners, husbands or whoever is around - to pitch in too. I'm only able to pass off one assignment a week, but even that, is a big help! Though I've recently decided that bedtime is no longer my responsibility, on days I have to home school - it makes me feel like a monster to be the only disciplinarian in the house (and I'm really not one, at all, so when I have to be, I hate it.)


6. When you're about to lose it, step back:
This one always leads to regret. And tears. And guilt. And your own tears sometimes too.  So before you yell, or scream or flip out, breathe, count to 10, and step back. I normally save my shower - for this point. Cause it does come, and it's okay to step back - and give them a break too. I step back, go for a shower, tell them to finish the assignment by the time I'm back (if it's something they can do alone), or have a dance party and jump around till I'm back.

7. Work at the pace that keeps you sane:
A lot of people like to break up the assignments and do it in bits through the day. I can't deal with having anything due, hanging over my head. So I prefer to get it all done in one sitting. So do my kids. Then they have the rest of the day free to plan the things they want to do (as do you).
Whichever way you chose to do it - it's fine. Do whatever works for you, and in which way it does.


8. Don't stress about perfection:
I made this mistake too. I erased and fretted and made him change every answer that wasn't right, and then explained and explained and got fried too. Don't let yourself get to that point - they do get it, but your their parent first, and teacher second, that is going to seep through somewhere. So are their vulnerabilities, and the fact that they know they can ask you to repeat yourself and they have spent every day since they were born, testing your limits. It's their birth right though, and it's how they learn where the limits are.  But seriously, this doesn't mean you let them turn in work that's crap, you do let them work to the best of their abilities, given the situation, and lower your bar too. You too, are learning how much they know, and what their academic strengths and weak points are, so adjust accordingly. (I for one, have made my peace with my son's handwriting and I'm trying not to pass on my OCD tendencies downward).


9.You don't have to do it all:
Seriously, there's enough pressure on us as moms and teachers, and many of us are cooking and cleaning and doing home chores too. It's okay if you realise you're not the best, most patient teacher. Your kid is going to cuddle you at bedtime and tell you how much they love you anyway. However, you may love yourself more when you're calmer - so step back when you have to but forgive yourself too. Whether we have internalised what's going on in the world or not - its a time with a lot of fear and uncertainty. We are crisis and pandemic home schooling. Not a normal situation. So make the most of it and cut yourself some much needed slack.


10. Play!
Allow them to play, like free play. Jump around, play with clips, paint, make a mess (clean it up after too of course), and just be kids. Try though to schedule in some unstructured time, because that's what they love the most (and it will also give you some downtime).


I hope this helps mama! It's a weird time we live in, but wishing you all love, and strength and a sprinkle of patience.

More to come, always
TKV


All content on this blog belongs to the author and cannot be reproduced or replicated without expressed permission.

Friday, April 10, 2020

12 tips on social distancing with children:

We truly live in a weird time! I'm someone who stresses about the most random things, but even with all my public health experience and background, I never would have imagined (or wanted to imagine), a day when we are locked at home, and cannot get out for even our basic needs.

I'm an introvert, but I definitely have a few friends I can't do without. So, this is tough for me socially,  but mentally too, as there seems to be no end in sight. However, when I get out of my own head and think about what's happening in the world around me, how truly privileged we are starts to sink in. Not only to be alive but to ride out this storm in the comfort of our homes, with our families around us. My brother, lives alone in New York, and contracted COVID-19, and had to deal with being unwell, and completely alone too.

(Infact, to hear his first hand experience - including symptoms, early signs, medication and what to look for, you can check out the IGTV of his Live conversation with me, on my Instagram @mommydiaries. For Part 1 of Shaun's interview, click here. And for part 2, click here.)


So yes , we are definitely lucky but that doesn't mean it's easy though, to have family around the entire day. Particularly little children, who give you no down time, and are themselves confused with this drastic lifestyle change, and on top of that - having to deal with home school, and distance learning and the oodles of work that are being sent home. Below are some tips on social distancing with your children, that should help YOU stay saner, while at home.
a glimpse of the stay home series


Also, if your looking for entertainment or activity ideas (including recipes and workouts), check out the #mommydiariesstayhome series on Instagram/ IGTV!



12 tips on social distancing with children:

1. Watch their anxiety levels:
Kids pick up on everything (first of all, swear words), but on our feelings and anxieties too. It's very normal to be stressed at this time, and there an endless number of reasons to be worked up from the economy to health concerns. However, let's keep in mind that our kids are picking up on these too. My kids are as different as can be, with my son being the quieter and less expressive of the two. And to top it off, he loves to be home, and keeps saying how fun this is. However, I do find, that he's having more nightmares, is acting out by being more stubborn and is harder to put to bed (in part because of the lack of physical outlets, and also because he's scared of his nightmares). Both my kids have been coming to my bed at different times at night, complaining of bad dreams - including my daughter who has never had a nightmare before.

So, no matter how happy and well -adjusted they seem, they do pick up on our stresses, and they do have concerns and fears of their own too. Let's keep this in mind when we are having adult conversations around them, and when we are communicating with them too.



2. Keep some kind of routine:
Kids do very well with structure and routine. All kids. It helps them feel safe when the patterns are predictable. This doesn't mean every day has to be the same (even though in many ways, currently, all our days are blending into one endless one) or that you have to set alarms to be up and jumping, but it does mean that having some kind of structure to your day.

For example, we are starting our home school around 10.30 am everyday, and are done by lunch time. We have lunch time with my parents (who live in the same building), then they have downtime which can be anything from reading, free play, board games, or limited screen time (while I get some work done), then they have garden time (which my husband has taken charge of), and then their bedtime routine. So, while we haven't kept a rigid schedule for every minute of the day - their school time, lunch time and garden time are at set timings, so they know what to expect with the day.

This is much more fluid on the weekend.  They get more time to play but lunch and garden time is set, as is bedtime. We are on our 3rd week home, but they have known what to expect since a few days into the first week.


3. Answer their questions:
Kids have ALOT of questions. Address them and answer them. If you have things you feel you should discuss or concerns you don't think they are voicing, you should ask them their opinions and see what you get in return. Try to avoid overly open questions like "how are you feeling?" and go for more pointed and detailed questions like "what did your teachers say about this topic when..." You will be surprised at how much more they share when you get to the point (even if it's a seemingly irrelevant point), than when you ask an open question. And this is true regardless of the situation.
My kids have asked me
- Why someone ate a bat (my son learned this in school apparently),
- If their friends are ok (specific friends have been named, who they obviously miss and are concerned about),
- Why they can't see their friends
- Why they can't go to New York
- Why our summer holiday to Austria is cancelled
- If my grandparents are going to die of corona virus, because they are older.. and the list goes on.
Try to be honest with them without scaring them or scarring them. Instead of telling them that you are scared, don't know anything and are worried about how and if this will end, tell them that they are virus warriors who are staying home to protect everyone else around them. Try and put a positive spin on this so we don't add to their anxiety. There are great resources available online to help you come up with ideas - one of my favourites is Bookyboo kid's free printable and personalised book (click to check it out). 


4.  Activity time:
It's essential to spend time doing things with them so that when this is done they remember it as time they got with their full family around, and not as time they spent dealing with the uncertainty that we as adults are undergoing. Play board games, paint, let them build tents and dance it out - with you. If you (like me) are not someone who is super into DIY stuff - that's fine! Read and play old games and do puzzles, or whip out crayons and show them how well (or badly) you draw. But use this time to let them see you have fun. Tell them stories and read them books, just spend time together and bond.

Also, give them time to play by themselves or with their siblings so that you get downtime. Let them put bandaids on their dolls, and race their cars and do whatever they want to - so that you get some time too.




5. Step out of your comfort zone:
For many of us, this entire isolation is a step out of our comfort zone. Even for me, as an introvert, there are family members and close friends, then I hate not seeing, including my grandparents - who are at greatest risk at this point, with this virus. However, I know for me - the other thing I thought I would never do, is anything culinary. I've sent the microwave on fire twice - both times I was home alone in New York, and once was while I was pregnant (I'm still not sure how it happened, I was making Easy Mac, went to change out of my work clothes and when I came back the kitchen was filled with smoke. The dishes were charred too.)
Over the last few weeks though, my children have been wanting to bake! So, we've made a couple of cakes. Premade mixes of course, but for me that's as far out of my comfort zone as it gets, and compared to everything else - it didn't feel that strange.

So do experiment with what you're comfortable with too. We're living in odd times and it's okay to show our kids too how well we can adjust - it will make their journey a little easier (and maybe you will pick up some skills too).


6. Gratitude:
I have whined and whined and whined. About everything. However, I am also reminded (from someone I whine too), that all of my problems - are first world ones. Which only reminds me to be grateful for the comfort and things I do have. (Including my parents in the same building, which means I can see them when most of the people I know cannot). I want my kids to realise this too.
They have been keeping a gratitude journal. For this too, there are lots of online options available - check out ellybean designs (100% of their proceeds go to COVID verified related charities). You can also make them write down things they are grateful for, on strips of paper, and create a gratitude jar, that they can dip into and refresh their memory of - when they feel less cheery.

Most of the things my kids have been writing down - are moments or activities spent with me - which tells us so much about what they are most thankful for.


7. Chores:
This is a great time to teach your kids some basic chores, if you haven't already. They can help you put the dishes away, make the table, and make their beds - to start with.

You may meet some resistance at first, specially if your kids are not used to helping out (like mine), but in time they do get used to it, and it is a blessing to have them give you a hand with things around the house. Specially if they are old enough to bathe and eat themselves!!


8. Use a rewards chart:
This makes the home school a little easier too!
Create your own rewards chart, and give stars for things like not fussing at home school time, eating their vegetables, doing their chores (or whatever else you want to add in there).

We have been using this for a while and it has been a game changer. Under usual circumstances, if they got above a certain number of stars they get an outing to one of their favourite places (I prefer to keep rewards as an experience and not material). However, under current circumstances, they are settling for other things like getting to pick which movie to watch, and deciding what to bake/ eat.

9. Facetime:
Make them FaceTime their friends, their grandparents, your friends, anyone they love! They need to know that we are all in this together, regardless of how isolated. It also helps them feel some sense of normalcy and connection.  I know how much this helps me (not that I've had any time for it with the kids on top of me the entire day).

We recently had a zoom birthday - two actually, one for my cousin, and one for a friend's twins. It does help the kids feel connected, and spreads a little cheer!



10. Screentime:
Even if you, like me, are someone who limits screen time - now is the time to allow it! Limit it ofcourse, and use parental controls etc, but allow it because it will give you some time and sanity too.

You can also indulge in some movie time with your kids. Watch old classics and your favourites with them so that they are not stuck to Tom and Jerry and their animated favourites all day. We have watched some of my favourites in the last 2 weeks: Mrs. Doubtfire, Dr. Doolittle, Sound of Music, Honey I shrunk the kids and The Avengers (the last series, with my son only, as my daughter is still little for this).


11. Exercise
Make sure to get in some time for physical activity with you too. If you want to youtube dance videos and make them dance along, or run around corridors or a lawn (if you have access) that's fine, but get physical, and moving so that they get an outlet too. This will also make bedtime easier, as bedtimes have seem to have gone haywire all over the place.

It will also keep them fitter, and more active and just healthier - and will do the same for you.


12. No awards
Seriously, there are no competitions and no awards. More than the mom community, I find the mom blogger community putting a lot of pressure, on themselves maybe but that is visible to others too. We don't have to all show that we are perfect - I for one am a big advocate of keeping things real and letting everyone know that we are in the same boat - and it's not always sunshine and roses. Infact it usually isn't and currently more than ever - its ok not to be okay and all there.

Please ladies, let's suspend the competitions, lets put the awards on hold and let's put our sanity first. There are days we don't feel all there, there are days we yell and scream, there are moments we just want to hide and cry, and it's fine. Even when I remind myself that I'm better off than many - it's not to reduce the magnitude of what you are feeling in this moment. It's to distract myself perhaps but I also acknowledge that this situation is not normal from any standard, and so the MOST important thing, above all the rest, is to do whatever you can, to allow yourself to feel SANE. Even if that means you spend days doing absolutely nothing. I am quite tempted at this point to hide for 24 hours and take a mental health day. Except I know that my kids will find me in seconds anywhere. But the last 48 hours though, I've done nothing productive (except push myself to finish writing this as I have been trying to do so for 10 days now! Seriously, 10 days. That's how low my productivity is at this point.)

So let's focus on keeping sane, keeping our kids fed and clothed and keeping their anxieties at bay.

Also, I'm hearing from NGOs and all kinds of people connected and working in this field, that domestic violence is at an all time high. It's so scary and sad for people in this situation. My own housekeeper told me a story a couple nights ago about how her husband beat her eldest to death, and she had to run away and hide one morning at 6am, hide out in her city for a month (while cops were looking for her), and then take a train and end up in Bombay. She's been with me for almost 6 months and while I was watching the news last night about this, she told me her story. Currently though, many in this situation are cooped up with their abusive spouses, and children too. Please first, protect your kids. I've heard (today), of women who are being raped while their kids can hear. If you are in an abusive situation (or you know someone who is) - protect your kids - literally hide them if you can, and CALL FOR HELP. Please. For those in India the child helpline number is 1098 (it works from cell phones and landlines too).


Sorry to end this on such a serious note, but it would be a shame to have a platform to reach out and not use it.


More to come!xx

TKV


All content on this blog belongs to the author and cannot be replicated or reproduced without expressed permission.