Best For Baby - Parenting in digital times

Parenting has evolved over the years. The way we were raised by our parents is not the same anymore to today's parents. However the anxiety and fear of a first time mothers still remains the same. The only difference one can see is .... earlier kids were born in joint families with each member involved in the upbringing of the child with some role to play whereas today kids are born entirely in the presence of mother, father and a doctor. Long before the joy of a new born sinks in... the clueless mother is already burdened with the fear of what to do and how to do?

To address all the worries of a first time mom and dads, Johnson & Johnson chose to go digital in order to provide instant solutions to todays parents by bridging in the gap of few generations that lies with our parents and grandparents.


Johnson & Johnson have always acted as a shield to protect babies and has been there as a promising brand for decades. They have always tried to come up with better than the best and have been innovative in their search for products related to babies.

The latest feather in the cap was added by a recent launch of their You Tube channel that serves as a hands on guide for new parents. Here's the link for all the new moms on the block to subscribe and say goodbye to all their worries and sleepless nights.

The launch took place few weeks back and was a celebrity studded event with the panel of experts who shared the stage and contributed in their own way to make parenting and motherhood a less taxing affair for new mothers and eventually turning the whole experience of raising a baby much more relaxing and fun.

The event kickstarted with Ganesh Bangalore, J&J all Indian head, who shared Johnsons vision for Best for Babies and how it would make parenthood an enjoyable experience for both first time mums and dads.

The You Tube India Head, Satya Raghavan focused on the need of reliable and good content to make life easier for todays generation of parents. Many of us aren't lucky enough to have our parents or in laws to help us with their experience in the hour of need. Many a times we are loaded with too much information from friends and relatives and it adds on to our worries as we aren't sure which one to rely on. According to him a you tube content by a reliable source would help resolve many such confusions and would give a practical solution through visuals to our babies day today needs.

Cynosure of all eyes was the ravishing Lara dutta, a popular Bollywood celebrity who unveiled the You Tube Chanel with a lovely video of a first time mum sharing her challenges of raising a new born. Lara's experience of motherhood wasn't any easier irrespective of her celebrity status. She took us through her journey of raising her 4yr old daughter that was no less than a roller coaster ride.

Dr. Indu khosla, a renowned pediatrician and past President IAP, Mumbai shared her days of motherhood and how it was tacky at times to be a mother first and not a doctor. She brought to light some major issues thats on a rise among today's kids with changing lifestyle and working parents. Lack of sleep and screen time for as young as 2 yrs are causing major hinderance in children's growth and social skills. She insisted "striking a balance" is the need of the hour for parents.

Ruchita Dhar Shah, the founder of FMC pointed out it takes a village to raise a child and it's time we take the pressure off the moms. Mothers are always being judged irrespective of their best efforts. We need not just fathers but the whole family to come forward and do that extra bit to ensure healthy parenting.

The Co- founder of Mycity4kids, Prashant Sinha rightly said now a days the role of a father has gone beyond what was expected few years back and in today's times most fathers are actively involved in raising a child when it comes to parenting including himself.

Naiyya Saggi, Baby Chakra Founder also shared her views on how parenting is evolving with changing times and a step like a Chanel launch by J&J can bring in a big difference to every parents experience.


It was a pleasure to have been invited to an awesome event by one of the biggest online parenting platform mycity4kids that has always gone an extra mile to give its readers a vivid experience through their blogs.

I walked back home with an enriching experience, fond memories of motherhood that brought back some of my own experiences along with an awesome gift hamper for my little one to get pampered by J&J.

Little hearts & curious Minds

It's not surprising to see kids speak their mind, ask questions until convinced and have a say in everything that's happening around. We all agree technology rules the world today and kids being so smartly adapting to it is no wonder a boon in a true sense.

If I go back in time when technology had not taken over every household the way it has today... Life was different, however it has certainly brought a revolution in the current generation in terms of everything .. Be it their way of thinking, adapting, learning or performing.

Years back, we as kids had no role to play when it came to decision making of any sorts... We blindly followed what we were told to and never questioned any decision... thinking that's how it's supposed to be. Whereas kids today have an opinion and their say in every matter they hear parents talking. They have intelligent and relevant questions about any particular situation that's being discussed in their presence. Which of course is a revolution of some kind for me whose seen both the generations.

Today I feel so proud when I see a younger generation being able to talk about most of the things we discuss... My five year old was well aware of the Cricket World Cup series that was held this year... And that's not all...he had all the relevant questions to ask that one could expect..Where was it held?, the time difference of day and night, the countries playing? and understood the game pretty well too. It felt great to see a five year old enjoy the game as much as any elder would do.

The other day I saw a bunch of kids discussing about US Presidents visit to India during Independence Day. Kids basic nature of wanting to learn something new every day and share along is nothing less than a genius.When it comes to sports and choosing their favourite players.. They know it all.. speaks of the clarity of their thoughts and minds.

In our times I still remember we were asked to read books to improve our general awareness and current affairs... Well that's passé. Today awareness of happenings around is a part of learning each day.

When it comes to the most common question of..What do they want to become when they grow up

They have the answers ready at the tip of their tongues ... Of course the credit goes to the exposure they get at such an early age of all kinds through media, televisions, newspapers and so on.

Children ask dozens of questions whole day long, while at play, while travelling, while watching tv, even when told a story... Anything that catches their attention.. They don't wanna just let it go ... Their ability to not give up until answered is like a hungry mind wanting to learn so much more.

This is the generation which has the potential plus the preferences so as to speak what interests them and what not. They can clearly differentiate their likes and dislikes. I still remember whenever we had a choice to pick from ... I always got confused and went by what parents decided for me.. and it always felt right and convenient.

Starting from what clothes to wear, what to eat, what toys and presents to buy plus birthday themes and who to invite ... The list is endless but their choices are firm and they are well aware of their wants.

The most amazing was the Swacchata Abhiyan run by PM Mr. Modi ... The celebrities did it for the cameras but our kids followed it with the true spirit and spoke of it openly and questioned fearlessly when saw someone not abiding by it.

A child's viewpoint should never be disheartened or suppressed.. Let their ideas flow.. as restricting them would give birth to fear and failure, which are the biggest obstacles on the road to success.
Give them a chance to do it their way, freedom brings in peace and ability to perform the best...

Questioning is the best form of learning... To be able to question correctly .. one must be able to comprehend and think beyond whats been told... It's a clear indication that a child's mind is curious and is eager to learn ... Never set a limit to a learning.. It's always hungry for more.

They have the courage, they have the brains, they have the voice... All we as parents and teachers need to do is ...instill the values that can bring the real revolution in our society in the times to come. We play the most vital role in exposing them to as much knowledge as we could and answer their queries appropriately for them to reason out and think differently.

They have the mind we need to feed them with knowledge, they have the ability to learn and grasp ... We need to ensure we set the right examples, they have the dreams to make big... We need to let a helping hand for them to reach it.

15 minutes of fame.. Is it worth it?

We can't deny the fact that motherhood is one of the most beautiful experiences in the world.
It makes a women more compassionate, kind, giving, forbearing, soft and tender... It's true to say a child gives birth to a mother, cause even a women who experiences this transformation wasn't aware of the loving and caring side she had within herself before bearing a child.

However this selfless love for the child can make mothers run into an unhealthy competition.

We all appreciate a competitive spirit, but how would you feel when some mothers get aggressive and exhibit over anxious and domineering behaviour when it comes to their kids win the competition? Believe me or not but it's true that some parents become so abrasive in order to establish superiority among others.

I agree, as parents we feel proud and thrilled to see our little ones winning the race or being appreciated in a crowd or a group, However I have seen parents getting so carried away by the fact that their kid should perform the best that they start pressurizing the kid with repeated harsh behaviour and dialogues enforcing victory. At this age when kids are still in the process of learning and understanding the essence of competition ... I feel parents should be glad to see their kids being a part of competition and trying to do as much they could rather than threatening them to win.

Is competition all about winning...?

I am more than happy to see my baby go and stand up there in the competition... Be it a race or any other match.... Let them be themselves, This is the age when they learn through experience and careful observation. I have seen mothers brain washing their kids and getting hyper before hand to ensure their kid win. Well I don't mind you take the trophy home.... But not at the cost of hampering his confidence and self esteem through your stressful act.

Are we being unreasonable about our kids abilities ?  

Every parent is the best judge for their kid and know what their child is capable of.. Setting unrealistic goals for your child will only have them doubt their abilities and lose faith in themselves. Encourage your kids to be a part of any challenge or a competition. Give them a liberty to try and fail.. Focus on their efforts rather than on outcome. Soon your kid will realize the true sense of achievement and develop a competitive spirit to take over the world by his best attempts.


Some parents might have a different opinion and question
what is wrong in being competitive ? Who doesn't want to see their kids at the top? 

Well it's great to expose our kids to the world of competition and the number game, but we need to instill the values of a healthy competition. We don't want kids to feel envy of the competitors if he /she fails to win. At times parents become so aggressively involved in such events that they don't realize that their behaviour towards their kid and others can pass a wrong signal for their kids to see. yelling and pressurizing kids in front of others can demoralize them and they feel dejected if they
lose.

Forget kids even we mothers do better when we are not compared to other moms but are appreciated for what we are doing. Most mothers lose their capability and under-perform even for their own kids when they are being judged or interfered by others in the family.

This was an year ago, Like all other mums ... Me too was bitten by the glamour world and applied for this fashion show for my kid. It was just two days before the audition was due ... I thought of giving few tips to my son to prepare him for the audition... But you all know how a 4 yr old behaves... He was least interested and hardly paid any attention to what I was thrilled about... After many attempts trying to get his attention ... and facing all his questions he finally agreed to walk and did little to my expectation to make me happy.

Well , today was the day of audition ... After almost trying a bundle of clothes, I ended up dressing him smartly and was satisfied with the way he looked...

Anyways after reaching the venue, we still had half an hour ... Instinctively got an idea that I can make him practice on the ramp where he has to perform ... But had I forgotten that I was dealing with a 4 yr old ... They usually don't do what we want them to but they have their own moods and wants... Almost all the kids were walking running and practicing on the ramp... I almost felt like fighting a losing battle as my son refused to leave me and even step on the ramp ...tried pushing him a few times, but soon realised if I continue to push him further I would end up spoiling his mood and there might be a scene created instead of a fashion show.... So I finally quit and sat quietly and engaged him in little fun talks and games ....

I saw him become comfortable to see his mum relax as he would see me otherwise. It was difficult for him to understand my sudden change of behaviour for no reason ...It was me who was getting  impatient and stressed for my own needs of wanting to see my son make it in the final show more than my sons needs....After a long wait the audition started ...The hall was full of parents with kids of all age groups... As they called the kids name ...they were to walk the ramp and pose.

Looking at the other kids do so well, I was already disheartened...and knew my son has no scope. All I wanted him to at least leave my lap and go .... Just to keep me away from embarrassing in front of so many ppl. While my mind was busy predicting what would happen... Suddenly his name was called and to my utter surprise... He just got off his seat...went up the stairs walked like a star and posed like some superhero that came naturally to him. I couldn't believe my eyes... He looked so relaxed as if he is been practicing for days... N as soon as he stepped down he asked .. Mamma did I walk well..? Are you proud of me? ..and everyone who heard laughed at his innocent act of confidence and passed me the smile .... I hugged him and said you did a great job my darling.

The whole experience left me so happy and proud that I really didn't care if my son gets selected for the final show or not... I was more than happy to see him go up on to the stage in front of such big audience and do what he did.

What kept me thinking was, If the struggle and stress worth the fame of 15 min ?

As parents we get so stressed and become a part of the rat race and pass the stress on to our kids too without even realising that they are innocent minds unaware of the fact that their mothers are are so desperate for their kids to win ...

He didn't even know what battle I was fighting in my mind through out thinking for him to do well to get selected, but the ease with which he went and did so without even knowing what's the reward
behind it ...


Well, I get a call in few days and I was thrilled to hear that he was selected and he rocked the final show with his innocent style and confidence.

We as parents get so excited about whole concept of being in the limelight that we forget we are forcing us upon our little children.


Are we being mean by forcing our choices n happiness upon our kids ?

No doubt it feels great to see our eye candies doing such big deal at such a small age... But it kind of opened my eyes when I saw some parents really pushing their children to look good...and building pressures to walk as they want them to.  I saw some little girls who were just not  comfortable wearing their hair in certain way, but kept to all that glamorous look just to make their parents happy.

We being the best judge of our kids can also go wrong many times for our own selfish happiness.  By pushing them into something for the fame of 5 minutes..that means nothing to them but a big deal to parents.

I wouldn't say we should not send them for competitions or encourage them to be in one... But also ensure the whole focus behind any competition should not just be winning ... Anything that holds child's interest, comfort and happiness should be the priority at this age... The whole experience should be made fun and learning so that they themselves enjoy being a part of it next time ...But not because we want them to ....

If we really want to feel pride in their victory .. We have to learn to feel pride in their failures too !

A National Hero In the Making

Every child is born with a dream in their eyes.. It's for us to read their minds and watch their actions to help them realize their dreams... When I gave birth to a baby boy .. I knew my house is gonna be filled with cars, bikes, superheroes and so on..

When he was around two, we walked in to a toy store to buy someone a birthday gift.. That's when my little one pointed towards a gun and insisted that he wants one .. I was little apprehensive thinking should I or should I not ? am I introducing my toddler to killings and violence.. Many such thoughts ran through my mind.. But eventually I gave in to his demand but what kept my satisfaction was the fact that .. He didn't know its called a gun...

Next thing he asks me is to stop by on the road out of a sudden.. And to my surprise he wanted to say hi to the cops standing by the road side .. He called out loudly hi police and waved his hands.. Was lucky enough to get a respond as they smilingly waved him back... He was on the top of the world .. Jumping and laughing as if he has met his hero ... Anyways ..

This time it was a fancy dress in school when he was in group1, I gave him as many choices as I could but he was damn sure he wanted to become a police, which wasn't there on my list and insisted he wants the full police set. I was lucky enough to get one in his size after hopping from one shop to another. He was so thrilled to have one and just wanted to get back home as soon as he could .. Well I dressed him into it without any delay... He looked adorable and cute little police man ..

As I was ready to click some pictures, he said wait wait ran to the other room.. returned in a minute with his gun tucked in his pants... and his rescue operation was on the go.. Momma call me if you are in trouble .. Will put the bad guy in the locker and so on... It was a task getting him out of the dress until it started hurting him and finally agreed to take off just before bed time ...

Soon after I visited my parents and he happened to see my dads uniform..from the time he had served in Indian Army. Last time when we visited them he had seen Nanu's pictures in uniform but was too small to understand much.. But this time he was so fascinated by the look of his uniform, the cap, the boots that he wanted to wear it all.. Nanu happily entertained all his demands and questions ... and shared his stories how they fought with the enemies to save their land ... and encouraged his dreams by saying he can also become one .. if he eats well, stays fit and healthy..

That day and today.. Nothing has changed .. He lives his dreams through his games, by sharing his made up stories with his friends, through his toys he collected later of an army soldier, an army tank, chopper and much more.. He looks so consumed in his thoughts when he watches an army soldier either in a movie, a photo in a magazine, newspapers.. Merely a mention of the word Army catches his attention instantly and one can see the glitter in his eyes, how his energy levels go up and he is ready to step into their shoes.

Independence Day was just not a holiday for him... he was so thrilled to go for a flag hosting with his army cap on which he brought from his Nanu's house.. as he had to save his country from bad people who can attack us... His straight body posture with an excellent salute didn't go unnoticed .... As he stood throughtout in the respect of the national anthem... Just as a real officer would do.

Today I realise that we have a Military Man in the making, who left me startled when I handed over a gun to him.. Least I knew it's gonna act like a saviour for my baby's dreams.. He feels so strong and fearless with a gun in his hands and keeps the courage to defeat the bad and the evil. Today's kids know good from bad and will never choose a path until guided inappropriately. 

I am a proud daughter of an Army officer.. and I wish my little baby live his dream one day and make the whole country proud of his deeds. Here's a true early starter trying to turn his aspirations into a reality and come out as a National Hero to make his mum and the world proud one day.

Camera is the culprit

Cinema has always been the most popular source of entertainment among adults, families and even for kids. In spite of being a great source of entertainment, it's not very keenly recommended by parents when it comes to watching movies for kids.

I belong to a time and generation when we as kids accompanied our parents for films as an outing but were never encouraged to get fascinated about the whole idea of glamour, fashion and madness behind that reel cinema.

As kids, I still remember we were not freely exposed to film magazines, filthy songs and any other sort of resource that would lead our interest in the glamour world, plus we had so much to do in our times...that movies and films were merely an excitement for an outing and cold drinks.

But when I think of today.... cinema has taken over other sources of entertainment in a very big way..

It's not just confined to the multiplexes or movie theaters but dozen of channels on TV telecast films all day long.

The ones which doesn't show movies, show filthy songs with embarrassing videos & dirty lyrics. If that's not enough there are advertisements adding to the repulsion with skimpy clothes and exposed body ads with some  really  stupid dialogues.                   

Somehow if we manage to skip TV, There are these Newspapers filled with full page movie ads showing skin, posing inappropriately or else filled with blood and violence. Even if you manage to ignore all the above...You can't get so unlucky to miss that condom ad placed right where your eyes can never skip it.

These thoughts never crossed my mind or bothered me all these years of my life but since I am a mother now... I can't turn a blind eye to all that is happening around and let my kid grow before time.

When I hear a 4/5 yr old singing....sari night besharmi ki night and many such absurd songs...

 I literally feel how their parents allow them to watch and listen to such songs...?

Above all it feels so indecent to hear these dirty lyrics coming from kids of such young age, thankfully they don't understand the meaning behind it yet.

Many parents think otherwise that more we keep them away or restrict them from all this more they would get attracted to it, So they let them watch anything and everything that the idiot box has to offer .... Be it Saas bahu serials, item numbers, movie trailers full of violence & bad words and other stuff without giving a second thought.

Now its up to the parents to decide what they think is good or bad for their kids... Well, In that case the safest bet is to limit their TV viewing only to kids channels.

However it changed my mind when I sat one day with him to realize... Bheem being all kids hero only loves to fight and is aggressive all the time. They are all shown saving the princess ...so now when ever I have a girl who comes to play with my son she has to be a princess in trouble and helpless ...so Bheem comes and save her.

Heights of all was.... the day I heard this advertisement and thought my son might have changed the channel but to realize later it ran on kids channel made no sense to me ( a women wearing deep neck blouse being called hot by his father in law) My kid relates hot with weather.

I really fail to understand, why are kids exposed to things or dialogues not appropriate for their age... ?
Why are serial and movie promos running on kids channels?

why are parents not given a choice of deciding whether they want their kids to show the movies or not ?

why obscene item numbers, lewd songs and clippings everywhere on TV?

Restrict it to one channel ... people will have a choice to watch or not.

The full page movie ads in newspapers should be avoided in front pages. Hoardings and movie posters should be kept clean and watchable .... not lusty and vulgar..

On one hand we are feeding our kids with dirt, filth, vulgarity, obscene stuff through songs, movies, hoardings, magazines and newspapers.. On the other hand we are complaining of kids outgrowing their age and misbehaving, teasing and finally assaulting... 

I am not saying this is the sole reason behind all the mishappening in society but is definitely a very big reason of where our society is heading and the way future generation is being misled.

The other day my 5 year old asks me ...why in all the movie posters boys always have a girlfriend ? Well I answered that for him but It won't be surprising if he comes and says next ...mamma I want a girlfriend too.

I am not against boys and girls being together .... In fact we need to instil the values of relationships in our children and how we all play important role in every ones life .. but why make it obscene and present... There are healthy ways of letting kids know that two ppl love and care about each other like their parents do.

The girl boy relationship should not be a taboo...that is seen or projected as a shameful thing.

For all those who think i am being over protective ... must understand there is always a choice of exposing your kids to every thruth in a healthy manner and at a right age....

Camera is the culprit... because it focuses at the wrong places and provides an element to pollute innocent minds. The dialogues and the lyrics should be for enjoyment but not to dilute our thoughts. Many think its just fun and they see and forget at this age .. should remember at this tender age kids learn more from what they see and hear ... And whatever they are exposed to leaves an imprint on their minds.

Worst is even in video games and cartoons... Girls are projected with divulging breasts and as a piece of object to gather attention...where is the need to make these little minds curious of women's body and think of them as some glamorous object ?

why can't girls or women be projected like a normal human being ...and how they look in real world ? 

we must always remember kids understand more than we think they would ... And it's our responsibility to feed them with values, morals, respect and equality.

Is the word International a marketing gimmick for schools?

Selection of school for a child's education is another challenge that every parent has to go through.. starting from play group to a higher level, Finding a school of your choice is an ordeal.

If we look at last ten yrs.. There is no doubt about the fact that number of schools have increased in the city and more so there are separate schools for toddlers to initiate the pre primary education, but it still doesn't fulfil the need of education for all the kids out there..

The times have come when you have to register for admissions as soon as the kid turns 2 or three yrs else you are late for admissions.. And you are refused a seat. That's the kind of competition we parents are dealing with today.

Forget getting admissions in colleges and schools for higher studies... I am talking of the kids who are yet to enter the world of education... The toddlers and above..

Competition has become a part of everyday life, not that we aren't accustomed to it ... But it get on to our nerves when something as basic and important as education sounds like a burden because of the monopoly of schools and its privatisation.

My concern is why getting an admission in most of the city schools is like fighting a loosing battle? Education being the prime right of every child.

More so, after every schools coming up with the International tag has made it worst for the parents to
take a call and decide the child's education.

Is the International tag all about paying big bucks and sending your kid to an ultra model building with all the luxuries available? 

Are we talking of education here or sending our kids to enjoy the luxuries of life which he might not experience at home?

Apart from the international tag, the new introduced boards have added to the confusion.... Be it IGCSE or IB

Didn't we already have enough boards to decide from? 

if people feel existing boards are not superior enough then why not scrap and introduce one board
that's best for all.

Well there is another angel I have heard and read about international schools. School authorities justify by saying those kids who study from international schools adapt to the western culture well
and get admissions in universities abroad.

My counter question is .. Were Indian students not going abroad in past or were they not getting
admissions in their universities before. I have always heard Indian education system is so well
designed that Indian kids are always demanded by companies abroad... If I may truly admit ...all my school friend today are settled abroad in various countries and doing great. They studied Indian boards CBSE/ ICSE  that's always been there.

For a moment if I give up on my argument and agree that international boards are the best, why such 
high fee? Are you charging parents for the education and knowledge you are imparting or is it the 
for the interior designing and the amenities at school?

Who needs a lounge in school for kids to sit and read? Are we not creating differences in kids mind by providing them a five star treatment? Are we teaching them the value for money or is it all about show world?

Are we parents not doing good enough to live a decent life, with our Indian education system?

Schools and education has become a business and a money making racket. Today schools define its value by counting on the facilities they are providing... Like swimming pools, zymnazium, horse riding and what not.

Studies have taken a backstage and the focus is merely on how much can they sell the other stuff to charge more. 

All schools have toppers and mediocres, it can never be guaranteed by the school and its authorities to produce all top grades.

One must not forget the child blossoms even in the most ordinary schools ... What matters is the right guidance and support of a great teacher, who inspires you to think.

Another question is the schools who are boosting of their international curriculum.. Are their teachers trained abroad in their respective boards?

No, these are the same teachers who have studied CBSEand ICSE .. Who are being trained and are
asked to adapt and stick to their new curriculum.

Some argue saying that international board is easy for kids who aren't able to cope with the above
two boards.. i.e, CBSE/ICSE

So are you paying that hefty amount for a kid whose supposedly weaker than the rest... Or is it the new International curriculum that's weaker? 

I would like to ask everyone, are these kids from different schools and board going to face different
set of questions according to their respective boards, when it comes to competitions after 12th std?

If the answer is no... Then why do we have all this confusion, when eventually we are all preparing 

our kids for the same platform. 

Indian education authorities have not even accepted the international curriculum as a part of their Education system and has no subsequent plans ahead for these kids in our country. It's recognition is only acknowledged in universities abroad, which can lead in hampering the child's dreams if for some reason he/she fails to get admissions abroad and will b compelled to study in an institution with others from Indian boards.

Many schools are not even recognised by the  respective boards and lack the credentials and norms to

call it an international school, however adding international tag is paying them immensely. The schools are same, Teachers are same but just one word international is heavy enough to pull in the money from people's pockets.

I am a parent, I have dreams for my child too... I want best education for him to do well in life ... But I refuse to be a victim of this marketing strategy or a gimmick many schools have started.


I strongly believe in a conducive learning environment any child can excel, all we need are basic
requisites for learning and a guiding force for them to show the right path, luxuries at this stage will

not only block their vision but also divert their attention towards comfort and a relaxed attitude.

Don't promise our kids a foreign trip and lure them to unnecessary adventures.. Let the parent decide for a family holiday rather. 

Focus on making the education system better and and the way of imparting knowledge a superior, rather then selling education in the name of international and other luxuries.

Standardise education in all schools, focus on improvising easy and creative ways of teaching to ensure Indian kids shine bright nationally as well as internationally.

Introduce yoga and instill our value system in our future generations to enrich our culture. Enforce
positive attitude  and focus on  personality development while they are young. The soft skills are a complete miss from our Eductaion system... That can be worked on to ensure we produce the best of students all around the world. 

We don't need international to sell education, we need a complete package that works on all the attributes of child's education and grow into an independent, knowledgeable and confident individual.

That should be the motive of education and since its every child's right to seek education ... It should have a well planned and calculated fee structure, which is economical for the parents to bear  instead of  burdening them. No one should be allowed to go overboard in  order to sell his institute and create disparity in the name of education among kids as well as parents.

Reviving the art of appreciation

Kids become not what we want them to but what we are to them. It won't be wrong to say that kids in most cases are just the mirror image of their parents. From the time they are born till the age of six, they have a great sense of observation and their ability to imitate helps them learn and adapt to the world.

Kids are best at learning new things because of their curious nature and ability to get accustomed. Inspite of being blessed with such miraculous inner strength and will..

Why do some kids lag behind when it comes to their confidence and self esteem ??

One thing that can cause hinderance in their learning can be a fear of failure and Parents lack of
patience and support.

We all need a boost irrespective of our age or task we are trying to achieve. To get the best in a child or an adult is to show confidence in whatever milestones they are trying to reach..and that needs lots
of boost of morale through the words of appreciation and encouraging behaviour.


                                         



Many a times we as parents fail to understand their way of doing things differently  ...we end up forgetting they are at this tender age that's far from perfection... Infact the beauty of this age is they never give up...and their curious minds help them learn from mistakes over and over again...

Appreciation is the key word in parenting. We must not forget to appreciate the efforts put by our
little ones....whatsoever may be the end result. The kids who are appreciated time and again and see a
positive response from their parents inspite of failures... end up becoming the most confident children
and keep the courage to try different challenges in life.

Few words of appreciation can do wonders not only for your kids but also helps build a bond  between a child and the parent.


After years of togetherness ... We even forget to appreciate our partners and their achievements or
may be little things about them ...which once brought them closer... Infact those little things that go unnoticed now are the biggest reasons of  distance and monotony between the partners.

I simply feel we all yearn for appreciation in any form ...be it work, looks, personality or just a thought... a word of appreciation or a simple complement can make you feel so much worth it. It makes you feel that your efforts have been noticed and the thought gives a boost to ones mood and

brings joy and pride.

We want to be appreciated in all spheres of life in different roles we play ....Be it at work, at home, as a mother, father or more....

What restricts us from appreciating not just others but ourselves too??

We become so consumed by our own fixed thoughts, ideas, reactions, behaviours that we stop bothering about others feelings, emotions and needs ...so does others. In order to like and appreciate others one must be sensitive to others needs n open-hearted...many people envy when it comes to seeing others in a better place than them..

Infact this unhealthy competitive spirit is neither going to be appreciated by others nor its gonna do any good to us.

We must learn and practice this art of appriciation in our daily lives ...be it with our kids, family
friends or even enemies...Hahahah (might turn them into friends)

I revived this long forgotten art when I became a mother..and felt the need of being appreciated for my own efforts... I gradually realised that appreciating my chid for the simplest of things he tried doing made a huge difference in his approach towards learning...and added to the fun.


Why is it so easy to appreciate a child but not an adult??

A child's innocence makes us spill our heart out and we can't keep ourselves from showing our love in abundance... as we get more in return, regardless of any ego and expectancy... However our expectations vary when it comes to an adult and we choose to ignore the fact that there is a room for appreciation.

Appreciation is an art that needs to be practiced with our friends, family and ourselves too as it doesn't come easy.. Our kids will pick this art by watching us do it everyday and will remain grateful life long for giving that extra sense of realisation and expression through gratitude.

The most beautiful thing about Appreciation is it works both ways ...We can.. not only bring a smile to others but to ourselves too ...as it feels equally gud to compliment others as it feels to be complimented.

So let's get addicted to this life changing tool and uplift someone's mood and make their day... People will treasure fond memories forever.Simple things like love,  kindness, grace and gratitude can go a long way in making this world a beautiful place to be ...

Spread positivity among young ones through praise and recognition.. It's the only way to bring out the best in kids. A positive enforcement of ideas along with little words of appreciation not only teaches them to value what they are today but also gives them an extra sense of confidence and trust that they can take over the world tommorow.

Are you raising a helpless or an independent child?

Times have changed and so are the ways of Parenting. Thanks to the fast paced life especially in metros...where youngsters look for all the reasons to escape from Marriage. Even when they are finally tied into this relationship with the pressures from friends and family ....they run away from the responsibility of becoming parents and avoid it as long as they can until they again fall prey to the pressures of family and society.

Due to the changing lifestyle, Most of the couples choose to become parents at a later stage and at times with difficulty too... That's one reason they become so protective and sensitive that they don't even realize when they start shielding their kids. They become so habitual of restricting their kids and impose their ways of doing things that they do more harm than good by not allowing child to function independently.



Parents unknowingly get into the way of anything and everything that leads to a child's growth...be it social skills, his creativity or his self confidence.

Is that what we call overprotective or hypersensitive parents ?
Well, we all love and care about our kids...and panic too when the situation calls for but there are many parents who want to protect their kids even when there is no harm around... What I am trying to say is for instance if a kid is playing in a ground ...they are repeatedly instructed not to play in the sand, not to get dirty, not to get hurt and so on.... Enforcing too many No's & Don't's lead to overprotection and hampers childs confidence to be able to do anything by himself. Such parents constantly shadow their kids and direct their behaviour so much so that they end up deciding their friends too.

Isn't falling n getting little bruises a part of growing up ?...

Where are the days when our parents let us free in the fields and brought us up rough & tough.



It's not what you do for your children but what you have taught them to do for themselves, that will make them successful human beings. Ann Landers 
Over concerned parents diminish the child's growth mentally, which in turn effects their thinking and decision Making abilities.

Then what's the right way to do it ?

The best way to see your kids learn and grow is to let them free... More than anything else they want a go-ahead to try different challenges in day today life... Nothing is more thrilling for them to be able to do things they see others do with ease.. Our mere presence for them is the assurance as well a protection that they need from parents.

World is a scary place to be and how can we let these little kids be on their own?
The best way to deal with all your worries as a parent is to make your kid aware of the little realities of life...and educate them of what can help them in situations that are not so safe as home.



I made my four years old remember my mobile number by letting him dial through the landline and spoke to him for fun. But I had never imagined this fun would one day turn out to be the biggest learning for him ...

It was a sunday evening, I decided to take my son to a near by mall... While returning as we stepped out, he lost my sight watching other kids play and was in complete distress as he couldn't place me anywhere ...I also walked ahead thinking he is right behind me. Just after few steps I turned to hold his hands as I was nearing the main road ...I was taken aback when I didn't see him around... I ran back in a flash looking out for him, when I get a call on my phone... Usually I don't pick unknown numbers ... N especially in a rush I didn't want to but something clicked and I answered the call....to my surprise a man called saying are you ronnie's mother?...he is with me.

Totally baffled I rushed back in haste and spotted my son wailing out of anxiety ...I immediately held him n broke down in tears ... Though I quickly regained my composer to calm him down and took a sigh of relief.

This unanticipated episode not just left me perplexed but was also an awakening call for me. The thought what if he didn't know my number kept reminding me how I needed to make conscious effort of making my child independent. I couldn't have been more proud of my little baby's presence of mind and brave act.. He not only remembered my number but also had the courage to walk up to someone and ask for help in a situation of distress ...

This was the day when I realised kids are smarter than we think... Many times we make a mistake of treating them like kids and don't pay attention to their thoughts and ideas but not to forget they are young minds of 21st century who can give a run for money to many people with their sharp brains.




We must share all important information to make them aware of what can happen and how can they safe guard themselves.

We can't be with and around them 24/7 ..its always advisable to share with them what if something unexpected happens ... How can they deal with it or seek someone's help. Make them aware of the surroundings, the names of the places, your address, the route back home from near by places ect. Kids remeber what they are told, the general talks we share while travelling or at home can lead them to learn many facts of life.



Age is no bar for knowledge and learning. In fact kids learn faster than adults and moreover some of the greatest learnings have not been taught in school but were the mistakes made by few. The most important thing that we as parents can give our kids would be the freedom to think, act and speak.

This leads to kids being more responsible and confident in situations as they know they are not helpless...

Are parents pushing their kids for good ???

Life is a series of challenges filled with surprises.. And that's what makes life interesting. One of the biggest challenges could also be bringing up our children who are closest to our hearts and means the world to us... It can be an out of the world experience for many whereas many would have their world upside down with lack of patience n perseverance ....

Parenting is not a piece of cake, it's definitely a challenge that one has to accept once you are blessed with a child. Once a baby is born we long for the days when the challenge gets little lesser... Maybe once the baby turns 2 or another year or once they start schooling and so on....

And then comes the time when just schooling is not enough and we start engaging them into different  hobby classes, sports, activities and so on ...

How many of you think its in the best interest of the child? 

Are we trying to brighten their future by indulging them in these classes or are we pushing them to make space for ourselves??

I agree, many a times even parents don't have a choice but to keep the kid engaged in order to keep them away from
the other threats they might have in their absence.

However the question is how much is too much .....??

The school holidays turn out to be the craziest days to deal with ...when parents run out of ideas to keep the kids busy.

Thanks to these workshops during holidays....though many find it a waste of money .. A large number would crave for it to start.. ..To be honest all it takes is money but at  least it can take away the stress of dealing with the kid whole day long....that's too much to handle for many parents.

Well I am not trying to make parents feel guilty of the fact above .....but the truth is whether you agree or you don't ....you are taking away the best days of your kids life and of course yours too.           

I sometimes wonder, as kids grow they will have no choice but to join the rat race of handling responsibilities, proving their grades, finding jobs and so on...

This is the time when we have a choice to give them the freedom of going with their own pace, encourage playful learning, allow them to make mistakes and discipline them by being a role model. The days sans worries, tensions, far from day today rush with just love and affection surrounding them.

Isn't that how childhood supposed to be ??

It's not surprising to see kids lacking bond with their parents and grandparents ....

Are we to blame them for this lack of attachment ?

I wouldn't ...I personally feel its us who are making them feel distant by not being emotionally available to them when they need us the most..

Two great things you can give your children: One is roots, the other is wings. 

Childhood needs to be nurtured with love, care and devotion. Parents it is a sacrifice worth making!

                                       *To a child love is spelled as T I M E*

My first blog : carving the long lasting desire़़..

Someone was really sane to say it takes days, weeks, months n sometimes years before our thoughts start taking its shape n become a reality. Here I am a live example of slow n steady wins the race ....

It was an out of the world feeling to become a mother but not to forget equally stressful..as had to deal with everything for the first time and couldn't afford to take a chance cause a life was at stake even if a smallest-silliest things would go wrong...the consequences could b disastrous.. .

Anyways I am past that stage and a proud mum today. My little heart is young enough to handle quite of his daily chores...

While I was busy doing the best for my child everyday ...I started realising that not only I am losing out on my own individuality, but it's also hampering my capacities as a mother. May be I needed to channelise my energies ....too much of anything is never good !!

That's when I became conscious of the fact that I needed a space too and it's time to indulge myself in either a task or a hobby or a passion that I haven't thought of in years. Well it took me long two years n a half to realise my dream 
of writing a blog...

Like every dog has its day, this was my day when I got the kick in my head to actually put my thoughts together .

Now the whole idea was to start writing a blog n become a blogger, who else would answer my queries better than Google ...I opened my Ipad and immediately searched how to become a blogger..? That's where it began ...n loaded the page with too many information for me to read, apprehend and get started!! ......convenient was to drop the Idea n shut the page ...but something kept me going and I went ahead with my baby steps.

While I was halfway through I realised my so called blog doesn't match with the title I decided after a good amount of brainstorming. Once again in a dilemma, whether I should change the title or rewrite my thoughts to match the title. Guess I got carried away with my ideas .....Since I had too much to pen down from all these years I have been wanting to do so ...don't wanna stop now....

But I am sure I am gonna be judged by readers and can't afford to bore them in my very first blog, got to take a break after all and end it. Though feeling little off- course, I am sure I am not the only one around. Many mothers would relate to me and agree when motherhood becomes the priority in our lives everything else takes a back seat.