Intro: The lockdown has been harsh on us, especially our children. Dr Neeta Kejriwal, celebrated pediatrician near me, tells how we can effectively look after our children’s mental and physical wellbeing in these Covid times.
In almost a year of Covid related lockdowns, we all have been affected in some way or the other. But it is safe to say that our children have had to adjust the most. From no outdoor playing time, to online classes and being shut indoors… lockdown has been physically and mentally harsh on our children. We spoke to Dr Neeta Kejriwal, celebrated pediatrician near me in New Delhi to talk about the precautions that we should take for our children’s mental and physical health.
Question: Should we allow kids to play outside in these Covid times?
Answer: Covid situation is something to be careful about, especially for the children. It is quite dangerous for the young ones according to local authorities. In case the authority permits, then we could go out with adequate protection like handwash, wearing masks and social distancing, sanitizing. Children below five years of age are required to hand-wash but not wear masks. Only if there is a Covid patient at home is when they are required to wear a mask. For kids between 5-10 years, surgical masks are more than sufficient.
Q: How frequently should a child use sanitizer?
A: Using soap and water is a better alterative altogether. But in case there is no soap or water around, sanitizer with the alcohol ratio of 50 per cent is recommended. Also, the sanitizers must be placed outside the reach of children or they might hurt themselves.
Q: What major side-effects might we experience because of digital classes?
A: According to many child specialists near me, there will be high chances of children getting myopia and they would require wear specs subsequently. According to specialists, children below two years should not have any screen-time. Children between 2-5 years could have 1-2 hours screen-time everyday. Children above 5 years could have a maximum of 3-5 hours of screen-time daily, that too with breaks in between. Also, there should be a distance between the screen and the eyes so that it does not cause distortion.
Q: What is to be done in case of children’s missed vaccinations in Covid times?
A: Routine vaccination is very important for every child. Also, these vaccinations are very important and can be done in case of missed vaccination. Consultation from a doctor must be done in case of any issue related to child.
Q: What are the psychological effects on kids these days?
A: Kids these days are getting a lot of effects physically as well as mentally. Physically their eyes are suffering a lot and mentally being at home is also frustrating them. We need to be with them as a family and also keeping them aware of being safe during these times.
Q: If a mother is Covid positive, can she breastfeed?
A: Yes, it Is recommended by WHO that she can, but a consultation with a specialist is necessary. Adequate protection needs to be taken during breastfeeding.
Q: Do you require zero power lenses for extended computer hours?
A: Blue light zero power lens protects from myopia. It is not conclusively proven but yes, they can be used for children above 8 years.
Q: What can be done for home sanitization?
A: cleaning with bleach solution is necessary and it should be used within 24 hours. Also, it should be kept away from the reach of children. Cleaning is necessary as a precautionary measure against Covid.