Role of IT in Parenting

IT has become an integral part of many aspects of an individual’s life. Even in the parenting space, digital technology is transforming the way families improve their lives, as everyone is making use of latest technologies for entertainment, education, management and other various purposes. Although digital platforms have been part of parenting for some time now, only now they are beginning to develop engaging and personalized experience for modern day busy parents.

It seems that one of the most important innovations is in evolution of digital productivity tools platforms that help parents to manage their lives around kids. Such tools facilitate managing doctor visits, immunizations, tracking social, cognitive and physical growth of their children, building kids’ timeline etc – basically all aspects of lives around kids. While parents are overwhelmed with information, algorithms in these tools can connect parents to only the most relevant and personalized resources, e.g. proactively connecting parents to a psychologist, if certain behavioural tendencies are spotted in a child. However, such tools would be most effective if parents can sign up from the stage they conceive and utilize them till the time their kids get into their teens – i.e. a one-stop solution for their digital productivity tools needs. Good news is that such digital platforms are emerging in the market that offers intuitive and secure digital ‘productivity tools’ for parents.

Not only this, digital platforms can help build better parent-kid relationships by helping parents to understand their kid’s behaviours, psychology etc. in better and simpler manner, thereby helping parents to interact, respond and connect with their children more effectively.

As children grow up, they begin to explore the vast world of digital media. Children these days can easily access internet through desktops, laptops, tablets or smart phones. To safeguard their children from negative online experiences and malicious content, parents are taking extra precautions like giving limited access to internet, using parental controls or educating them about proper use of internet. Many digital platforms are available nowadays to help parents track activities of their kids on online or on social network and guide those to right path if they are doing something wrong.

In conclusion, IT space is going through a rapidly evolving stage and the innovation is aimed to transform the way modern day parenting is done. On one hand, these platforms can be a boon for modern day busy parents, but if not used properly, they can be a bane as well. Instead of parents being on one side and children on other, they should work together, to harness the full potential of digital platforms for making their lives more effective and efficient.

Authored By:- Mr Tushar Srivastava, CEO, www.nurturey.com. 

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Working Mother Names CA Technologies to 2014 List of “100 Best Companies for Working Mothers”

Working Mother magazine today named CA Technologies (NASDAQ: CA) as one of the 2014 Working Mother 100 Best Companies for outstanding leadership in establishing policies, programs and corporate culture that supports working moms, including child care, flexible work arrangements, paid parental leave and advancement of women.

Companies are also measured on access to and usage of family-friendly program.

“We are honored to once again be recognized on Working Mother’s list of 100 Best Companies,” said Beth Conway, vice president, Human Resources, CA Technologies.

“Year after year, we strive to develop and offer a varied blend of work life programs and benefits that enable employees to be their best each and every day.This inclusive, flexible work environment enables CA to attract, develop and retain a dynamic workforce where innovation, diversity, collaboration and an opportunity to advance are central to success.”

Carol Evans, president, Working Mother Media said, “The Working Mother 100 Best Companies are the leaders in the advancement of women by supporting their need to integrate family and work successfully.

We are thrilled to honor the U.S. companies that put words into action and build family-friendly cultures on the foundation of thoughtful policies and effective programs.

Women now make up 50% of our workforce.

We need to make sure they have the support to be outstanding moms as well as great employees."

Jennifer Owens, editorial director of Working Mother Media, noted, “In its 29th year, the Working Mother 100 Best Companies is a powerful reminder of how great companies can and do create supportive workplaces for their employees.

All employers would do well to follow their lead if they want to attract and retain top talent.”

The complete list of the 2014 Working Mother 100 Best Companies can be found here.

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Ten Things That You Should not do with Your Child

The role of parents in bringing up ‘a child is very important. As there are some do’s and don’ts for everything, parenting also involves some things that you should not do with your child. Every child is different, and needs to be taken care as per the situations, but there are some usual things that parents keep doing, but which should not be done. Let us take a look at those aspects.

1. Many parents force the children and act harsh with them when it comes to education. But instead of making it a night mare for a child they should see that child himself takes initiative to study. Education and learning activities may be fun, if presented in a way that child likes.

2. Today in many cases both the parents go to work and when they are back they are busy with other activities that don’t find time to talk to children. But if you want to know what’s happening in your child’s life and want him to trust you and rely on you then it is very important to spend some quality time with them.

3. Punishment should not be a way of dealing with child. When child does something wrong he behavior should be corrected. If you just keep punishing, fear will overtake his mind and he will be able to do nothing. Whatever you want to convey whatever you want him to do use the language of love, to make things happen.
4. Many parents give children whatever they ask for, they thing they are showing love but it is not right. Children should be given what they need and when they need, they should not be under the impression that whatever I will ask my parents will give, this will only spoil a child.

5. Many children today lead an unhealthy life style, they don’t eat on time, sleep on time nor they go out to play. This is very serious aspect that parents need to act on, they should see that the child takes nutritious and balanced food, leads a healthy life style. He should be encouraged to go out and play involve in other activities that are good for body and mind.

6. Many parents see only the short comings in the child and never see the positive side though they see they do not find it important to mention good things. Most of the time they criticize the child for negative things, this is not at all good every child has some positive aspects and negative ones instead of criticizing him for negative ones he should be encouraged to work on them and improve and every good behavior how small it may be it should be recognized and child should be given credit.

7. As parents we should never ignore a child’s problems or complaints. When he or she comes to us believing in us that we are there for them you should listen to them first and then solve it. Otherwise the child will think that we don’t care for him and will never open up.

8. Sometimes when disciplining a child parents lose their control and start beating or abusing a child, but this is not right this will make a child’s life worse. Violence will not solve problems and instead will make matters worse, so don’t lose your control and set a bad example for the child.

9. Many parents don’t allow child to involve in activities out of over care and affection, they don’t encourage him to learn new things. This is not good for a child’s development, as parents we should take care of child, and protect him but he should also be exposed to all normal things. Otherwise when he has to face a difficult situation he will not be able to withstand it.

10. What you do is more important than what you teach or say when it comes to children. Because children learn more by seeing their parents and other members of the family, their behavior, the way they interact and react etc. So, make sure that you do what you say and set a good example for your child as a parent. Otherwise we will not be able to gain child’s respect and love.

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Do You Know if Your Teen is Mentally ill?

Many parents find it difficult to handle teenagers. This is the time when they go through hormonal changes; their emotional life is never balanced. They are exposed to new things in life and as they do not have experience and knowledge of the world, there are great chances that they go in the wrong way.

Especially if they are not attached to the family and don’t share a bond with them. If parents do not give them time in this age, talk to them with love and guide them. Many of them get attached to friends or outside people who show them a little bit of love and give them little attention.

If a teenager does not get love, support and guidance from parents in this age then there are great chances that he or she may turn out to be addicts not knowing what to do and how to handle things in life. So, parents need to understand them, know them well and offer guidance and love.

But how do you know if your teenage son or daughter is in need of psychological assistance or treatment? Well, look for these symptoms.

1. Is he able to maintain good relations with his friends and are there any changes in his behavior towards teachers and friends?

2. Do you find any severe and sudden changes in the behavior that is quiet unusual?

3. Is he able to do well in studies? Or there is decline in his performance.

4. Are there any changes in his eating habits like not eating properly, avoiding food, not showing interest towards himself, like the way he dresses, and aspects that relate to personal hygiene?

5. Do you find that there is a constant change in his / her moods? At one time cool and understanding, at other times violent and angry.

6. Is he taking any tablets or drugs, or is he taking alcohol or has started smoking?

If you find that your teenage son or daughters have these symptoms then it is time that you give them counseling and take care of their psychological health.

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Top 10 ways to Increase Children’s Confidence

Each and every parent tries to give their child the best education, and the best of everything. But the most important thing that each and every parent should strive to teach their children is to empower their child with the skills that they require to come up in life that is life skills.

It is very important for parents to see that the seeds of self confidence are planted in them since childhood so that it grows along with them. According to research, a child who is happy and has confidence, performs much better in the school and is good in relationships.

If you take a look at the recent statistics the main reason why students that too below the age of 23 are committing suicide is lack of confidence. So, this is one thing that parents really need to concentrate on. Let us look at some of the ways to develop self confidence in the children.

1. As parents most of the time we find faults with the children and try to correct them. Instead find something to appreciate in them, when they do even a small thing that is good or correct give a pat on their back, congratulate them and appreciate them. This will increase their confidence.

2. Children are full of excitement, every time they find something new or exciting and they want to share it with you. Be patient and listen to what they say and how they feel. Those things may sound silly to us but are important to them. When they talk they learn to open up and share their feelings, this helps in boosting their confidence.

3. You tell your child to do something that he is not used to but he tries to do that and gives his best efforts, he may be successful or he may not be successful but the point is that he has tried. Reward that trying and encourage him, one day he will achieve or do that thing and show you.

4. It is more important to give your valuable time to children than to buy them the most expensive gifts. Make it part of your routine to spend some qualitative time with your child.

5. Assigning children with the tasks that suit their age and thinking levels, increases confidence in them. They feel confident when they accomplish or do something, so give them small tasks, encourage them and help them to increase their confidence.

6. Involve children in discussions as parents we don’t allow children to interfere in matters that are not of their concern, it is good. But you should find out something to discuss with them may be a topic of their interest and then involve them in the discussion, this way they learn to discuss and to communicate. When they do this they don’t hesitate to express their views and participate in discussions outside.

7. As parents most of the times we caution children not to do any mistakes, but when they do so, it is our responsibility to make them feel that it’s ok to do mistakes and it is a process of learning and nothing to be ashamed of. It should be their perspective to look at mistakes like learning tools; they should learn from it and grow but should not repeat them. This kind of attitude gives them the confidence to face life.

8. Most of the time the children’s behavior and their actions make the parents fell annoyed and shameful. But children do it out of mere ignorance, so, instead of punishing them. It is our responsibility to let them understand what they are doing and if they continue to be so what will happen to them. Making them understand and correction is important to punishment.

9. As far as possible try that the child looks for positiveness everywhere and in every situation.

10. Always try not to force the child to do things that you think are good for them. Give them some freedom, and involve yourself in doing those things that are of interest to them. This will help in strengthening the bond, and helps increase confidence.

It is not enough to buy them expensive gifts or give them the best of all things, more than anything else children crave for attention and love give them that and see with what confidence they grow up.

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Health tips: Overcoming Hurdles to Fitness

Sticking to regular fitness routine is not at all an easy task. So many hindrances come in the way, in the form of sleep, boredom and lack of time.

But there are also ways which will help you overcome these obstacles in your way to fitness. When you find doing one thing boring change your activities, one day you may walk, another day you may go for cycling, or other day you may exercise, there are plenty of options.

There is another option, pick up an activity that you are interested in, like dance or join your friends in fitness routine. There are many kinds of fitness programmes, like some relate to yoga some to music some to dance, some aerobics, check them out and pick the one of your choice.

When you don’t have time for routine pick out some time in your routine activities, like when you talk over cell phone you can walk. Instead of taking vehicle every where you can go to some places by walk.

If you find it embarrassing to exercise in front of others, or to participate in an activity with others, just do it alone. You can buy fitness equipment such as treadmill or bicycle and start your work out at home. If you find that you are too lazy to follow a fitness routine, then do one thing, plan your fitness activity at a time when you feel active and energetic.

The most important thing is, always remember the cause behind action, why you started your fitness routine, you want to look good, stay fit, whatever the reason is remember the reason and it will be easy for you to stick to routine.

If you can’t afford going to clubs start with walking, take stair case instead of elevator. Check out these aspects and it will be easy for you to overcome hurdles and stay fit.

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Teenagers Need: Parental Guidance or Freedom

Today’s teenagers have more freedom, in each and every matter when compared to previous generations. In the personal matters, educational and professional, and parents have also become quite understanding in the matters of their teenage children. But what is this freedom giving them and where is it leading them? Is a question we have to ask ourselves?

Taking the opinion of the children in matters of choosing their profession and career is a good thing to do, but even in that matter when they need parental guidance we must do so. But what about matters that are personal, I think this is where most of the parents and teenagers have clash. And these are the matters where generations gaps come in. In previous generations, there was nothing personal.

But now we hear it too much, what is this personal space giving our children and where is it leading them? As there are two sides of every coin so is here, freedom is good and giving personal space is good but when is the question? This is an age where children think they know everything and they can be on their own, but this is the time when they need parental guidance and supervision more. Because, this is age where it is easy for them to get distracted, diverted, and get carried away by the glitters and fantasies of the world.

Being parents it is our duty to know when to give them choice and freedom and when not in what matters they need freedom and ion what matters they need choice? Some parents are too strict with their teenage children not leaving choice to them even in matters of food and clothes, this is not good. And some parents are too liberal with their children leaving all the choices to them and giving them all the freedom of the world, without guiding them and supervising them, this is not good also.

Freedom at proper place and proper time with a proper reason is what teenagers need. And this is what parents should give them they should give them freedom but, also guide them, correct them and supervise them. Only then freedom will have some meaning and fulfillment of the purpose.

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Parental Guidelines

Along with personal goals and ambitions, is equally and more important role that we play as a parent. It is for the future of the family and the kids that we love so much, we have our dreams, to see them well off, we can we give them our property, but to see them as well behaved and good humans, we need to give our time.

Here are some simple guidelines that can enhance our role as parents:

Always encourage your children to give their best in everything, don’t ever tell them, that this is not possible. Encourage them to be big dreamers.

Children learn more by observing, when you teach them something and do something else yourself, then know, so walk your talk, and check yourself before asking them to do anything or not to do anything.

The more important role that we play as a parent is to be their mentor, we are the ones who are responsible to shape them, as proper human beings, and we are accountable to them for their future, so just don’t take your role for granted, you have the future of a person, another human beings life, in your hands.

Children see and know the world through the eyes of a parent, so we need to be very careful about what we teach them, what kind of view; we are giving them, of the world, and the persons around. To do all this we should be in the right track and should be living what we are teaching them, let it be by our behavior or otherwise.

So, to develop and evolve ourselves to be a better person and human being is very important for us to be better parents, because our children are our reflections.

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Child Abuse in India: A Secret?

By Jyoti Parida

Is child abuse India’s worst kept secret? Isn’t it sound’s so shocking. Still now many people are not aware of the child abuse. But it’s the truth and it’s going to touch its peak. Is everybody sleeping peacefully and not aware of the environment in which they are, has been already polluted. A survey conducted in 2007 by the Women and Child Development Ministry and the NGO Prayas in association with UNICEF and Save the Children across 13 states and with a sample size of 12,447. The shocking details were laid bare to the entire nation. The survey found that 53.22 per cent of children reported having faced one or more forms of molestation. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Assam and Delhi had reported the highest percentage of such incidents at that time. In 50% of the cases, the abusers were known to the child or were in a position of trust and responsibility and most children did not report the matter to anyone.

The child abuse in different types is rising day by day like molestation, under age girls throwing into flesh trade, domestic violence, child labor and many more. Why? These types of crimes are being created. I don’t think those people whoever are committing these crimes are normal. He/she must be a mentally sick person. Everybody say that child is gods gift. A gift of god means it is related to god. So how can they think to do such dirty things to the little once? So don’t wait until your child turn comes. So “It’s better to do your job before than after” following this proverb come forward and decide what will be the right way to stop child abuse. I am giving my view to stop child abuse.

STOP CHILD ABUSE

• Parents should be a best friend of a child so that he/she can share everything with his parents.
• Donate to a genuine NGO for children so that some children can be saved.
• The person who is being punished for child abuse simultaneously they should be mentally cured inside the jail. They should realize what they have done.

World Day for prevention of child abuse is 19 November. Is one day enough to kill the germs of child abuse? Where everyday, at every moment or at every second somewhere a child is crying for help. We can’t hear or we don’t want to listen the screams of the child. I think everyday should be a prevention day for child abuse. Come on wake up everybody and do something for a secured and better tomorrow for your loved ones.

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Shopping Mall: Think and Spend Wisely

By Jyoti Parida

In this fast paced life how everything is getting modernized and people are having very less time to spend with the family. So by keeping these criteria in mind these big malls have been created. So it is one stop shop. Inside these malls one can get clothing, fooding & entertainment.

How these shopping malls are trying to attract people. Basically on the weekends its traffic is being very jam. I mean the meaning of MALL is Mai Aapko Loot Loonga. And how this is being done I am going to explain it step by step.

When you enter into a multi-storied shopping mall from ground floor to the last floor it is full of numerous retail stores, food courts, multiplexes; entertainment zones. They give so many offers to attract people and also discounts on clothes.

But people never think about the profit or loss they are bearing from these shopping malls. They simply go by listening the offers. I think that the offers they are giving that are not on the fresh items but on the remaining & old stocks.

Then if we really want to buy some old stuff then we can get it from outlets and in very less price from that of the malls. The same is for the food products also. When we buy biscuits, chocolates, soaps, pulses or any other items then you may see the offers are not on all items.

If they are really interested in giving discounts then why not in all items why only on selected products. So, from this we should learn that how for their profit they are attracting us. Now after shopping you may go for some entertainment by going to multiplex or you may choose the games zone for your children.

In the multiplex the movie tickets always varies. In the games zone the rides charges are very high. And the games that maximum children playing are all electronic games. There are no games that they can play physically, that they usually play in the public parks.

If a child will play for hours in front of the computer then he is only concentrating on that game other than that he is doing nothing. But when children play in the park they are not sitting, but they are running here and there and learning so many physically games and simultaneously they are doing exercise, which is very necessary for them in now a days.

So no parent is having interest to think that whether the games their children are playing is good or bad for their health. They are only maintaining the fashion that everybody is following. Now- a- days, it has only become a fashion to visit the malls do shopping, eating in the food courts, children playing in the games zone or watch movies and etc.

But can you think that a middle class family can afford these malls offers? I don’t think because of the high charges. From this we must be clear that these offers are for the high-class people not for the middle class people for whom money really matters.

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