Addressing kids’ mental well-being
While many lockdown restrictions have been eased, educational institutes continue to remain closed. And for kids glued to their cell phones, both for educational as well as recreational needs, this lack of exposure to the outside world is posing a threat to their mental well-being.
“Society plays a major role in a child’s development,” says Maanwi Malik Sharma, a city-based psychologist, adding, “Kids learn through mimicry and observation. When they are constantly surrounded by caregivers and do not interact with the society, they lack the connection to understand others, leading to dependency and doubt.”
Moreover, this increased exposure to gadgets has led to addiction. “Since many kids haven’t stepped out since long, behavioural changes are quite obvious. Children can’t express emotions in words, so they throw temper tantrums,” notes Dr Shanu Srivastava, a senior psychologist.
To keep kids’ mental health in check, she says parents should pay attention to what their children have to say. “Listen to them, so that they can vent out their anger, anxiety,” she adds.
Dr Prerna Kohli, a clinical psychologist, asserts that parents need to ensure their children spend adequate time on three domains — social, academic and physical. “For example, if parents and children practice bhangra for 60 minutes daily together, this would be a fun activity to address social and physical exercise needs of schoolgoing children,” she suggests.