Encouraging healthy habits in children

PW invited parents of Delhi Public School Mihan, Nagpur to share healthy post-pandemic habits that they have introduced in their children’s life

“In the initial days of the Covid pandemic-induced schools’ lockdown, my eight-year-old daughter Sarisha would complain endlessly about how bored she was feeling and didn’t know what to do next. To end this condition, I decided to assign her a task. That of drawing up a daily routine allotting time for her favourite activities apart from academics, and most importantly sticking by it. I noticed Sarisha was happy to follow the timetable set by her which kept her engaged. A sense of accomplishment made my daughter a more responsible and mature human being.” — Richa Vaidya, IT professional, TCS, Nagpur

“It’s been almost two years since my son Siddharth — class IV— has been learning from home after Covid-19 hit India. I believe developing hygienic practices has been the best lesson he has learnt during this period. For fear of contracting the infection in the deadly first and second waves, all of us took great care to sanitise our hands, bodies, food items, and our surroundings. These habits are so ingrained in him that I am more than certain he can cope with any future pandemic.” — Menaka Bhargava, founder of Nagpur Circle of Moms.

“I am an anxious mother especially when it concerns my 15-year-old daughter Anushree. Since the Covid pandemic forced schools to lock down and subsequently switch to online learning, her screen time exposure has risen exponentially. To protect her from eye fatigue. I introduced her to a diet rich in Vitamin A and also started her on a regimen of eye and posture exercises. I also ensured she drank adequate water every day, engaged in outdoor play/walk/cycling and meditation, and got minimum eight hours of sleep at night.” — Ruchi Shrivastava, homemaker

“I was raised knowing that my family has the time for me anytime anywhere. Therefore despite our busy schedules, we make it a point to spend quality time with our son Arnav — class II — on a daily basis. This routine has improved our communication with him on various issues, making him feel important and loved. We believe teaching young children the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and self-esteem in life is critical. This skill will enable him to succeed in life no matter what challenges he encounters.” — Dr. Sonali Prashant Deshpande, general physician.