Listen to Kids, Spend Quality Time for Their Holistic Development: Expert

In today's India with the breakdown of the joint family system and rise of nuclear family, several parents find it difficult to deal with their children. Many a times the child is unable to confide in his parents as the latter are busy with their career. They sometimes spend very little time with their children which can show up as behavioural problems.

In the high income group money is not a major issue but giving proper attention to the children is a big problem. According to Richa Shukla, Content Expert, Sesame Workshop in India, the educational aspect of the children are usually taken care of but the parents sometimes fail to notice behavioural changes in their wards.

"There is a need for holistic development of children. Parents should sensitize their children about different issues concerning them. If the child has become aggressive or has become very quiet then the parents need to speak to them. They must find out the cause. They must tell the child that they are always there to help him or her," says Richa Shukla.

Bullying is also a harsh reality today. It can take place with children wither in school or anywhere outside. The parents should never blame the children but instead comfort them.

"Talk to the children, encourage conversation, don't blame them. Parents should empower their children to speak freely. They should tell them to stand up to bullies," says Richa.

Parents should also explain about good touch, bad touch, safe touch, unsafe touch and unwanted touch. The financial aspect should also be discussed and children should be told about the benefits of saving.

Moreover, many parents pressed for time allow their children unlimited access to TV, mobile phones and tablets. Such a move can lead to gadget addiction to the children and they are then completely cut off from the outside world.

“Parents should set a rule for TV and mobile phones. Please watch the programmes they see on TV. These gadgets are also useful and should be carefully monitored,” says Richa.

Spending quality time with children is the best way to ensure their have the confidence to share their feeling freely.