November is
a month that marks a lot of exciting events - marriages, anniversaries, fests
and not to forget Children’s Day on November 14th! I still remember my parents
(read - mom) would get me small but cute and thoughtful gifts like greetings,
stickers, posters, etc. on every Children’s Day and I absolutely loved it!
Now that I
have a toddler of my own, I want to continue this tradition and get him small
thoughtful gifts as well. But that’s not all, I think this is a great time to
ponder over how we, as parents, can pledge to make our kids’ future better this
Children’s Day. Here are a few things I can think of -
1. Health Is Wealth
With the rise in childhood health issues like low
immunity, obesity, getting spectacles at an early age, etc., it is vital that we
do our best for our kid’s health. Proper nutrition, lots of sunshine for
Vitamin D, gadget-free playtime outside whether it’s in the society or park or
getting them to enrol in football or cricket. We need to be less tech-savvy and
new-age here and follow some old habits. The worry of mosquito bites can be
taken care of with mosquito repellents like the Goodknight Fabric Roll-On or Goodknight Cool Gel (I love its
cooling non-sticky effect). Just 4 dots of the Goodknight Fabric Roll-On &
one is protected for 8 hours!
As a mom, I know all this is easier said than done,
but by taking small steps – one at a time, it is possible. I was having a lot
of screen-time issues with my son, but now I hide the phone once I reach home
and control myself from seeing it too. This helps, because he remembers and
wants it only when it’s right in front of him. Otherwise he is preoccupied with
all his toys (vehicles are his current favourite!).
2.
For the unpredictable future
Let’s face reality, life today is unpredictable.
Unforeseen accidents or illnesses have become really common these days. That
makes we want to spend maximum time with my kiddo and cherish every moment. But
I also want to make life for him in my absence comfortable. I’m no
investment/insurance expert, what I am trying to say is, plan and save as much
as you can for their future education and well-being. And also probably have a
godfather and godmother assigned to guide them when you’re not around.
I have started small with the basic FD’s and the
sort, but yes, I definitely intend to make more arrangements in the coming
months and years.
3.
Make them kind and confident
The world is a mean place to live in and people
tend to lack compassion towards others but there is still some light at the end
of the tunnel. They say that charity begins at home. Before we complain about
how the world is, we need to teach our own off-spring to share, love, be kind,
not be afraid, speak-up for what’s right or against what’s wrong and make them
confident and bright young souls. I feel like it is important to let them
explore the world and make some mistakes for themselves.
I would also suggest teaching them basic etiquettes
and manners and to respect everyone equally, it will go a long way and they will
thank you one day..
4. Keep a vigil, but be unnoticed
We have all heard of the blue whale challenge and got spooked by it and
what it’s doing to tweens and teens. So it’s very important to monitor what kids
are watching on the phone or on the PC, who their friends are , whom they
hang-out with at school or during tuitions, etc. But at the same time, we have
to be very careful not to be intrusive - give them some space and independence.
And if you see any signs of trouble, take immediate action!
5. Be their friend, guide and more
There are lots of debates and articles that say we need to be strict and
disciplined with our kids, and not be super “chilled” and friendly. I agree,
discipline is required but there has to be someone to guide them. I remember,
my parents had the good cop bad cop strategy where my dad was the guide and
friend who I could speak with freely, while my mom maintained some discipline
by scolding or “lecturing” as we called it, whenever required. Be their safe
haven.
I would love to know your thoughts on the same and what steps you have taken
to secure your kids’ future!
