After a looooong and relaxing holiday spent with family, it is time to grab our books and get back to our desks! For some kiddos it is a fresh start, for some, it is time to get back to routine. After a long summer of warm memories under the sun, how do we prepare our children for nursery? There are some simple things you can do in the days leading up to their first day, which can make their adaptation way much easier. Let’s learn together! 

Get Your Baby Used to Other Children

Nursery will surround your little one with many new friends, and this usually new experience might overwhelm your child at first if they are not used to being surrounded by many people. Before the nursery starts, it is a good idea to take your child to a baby or toddler group, in which they will be provided an opportunity to meet other tiny people and bond with them over their shared joy of exploring the world around them. This will also be an opportunity for you to meet other parents and caregivers, which also provides you with a community among people who are going through a similar stage of life with their children and can understand your worries and feelings. This is especially important for babies born during or after the pandemic and lockdown, for a lot of children and parents were isolated and need to learn how to mix back with others, and learn how to bond together.  

Adapt Their Routine

With nursery, a new routine will enter your child’s life, which will be another obstacle to adapt. Knowing the nursery’s schedule, and slowly adjusting your own schedule at home to that of the nursery will help your child adapt to a new routine much easier and with the confidence of having gone through that routine with you beforehand. 

Spend Time on Settling in

Settling-in sessions are invaluable for helping children adjust to a new environment. These sessions allow little ones to explore their surroundings with the reassurance that a parent is close by. Your presence can make the transition smoother, helping the child feel safe and comfortable. Additionally, you can observe the activities and resources available, which can lead to meaningful conversations with your kid about what they enjoyed at nursery, encouraging them at the same time. Overall, these sessions lay the foundation for a positive nursery experience.

Be Prepared for Crying, Be Positive

A new experience both for you and them, the first day of nursery can be emotionally challenging for children, and it is only normal that they get distressed and cry. At this stage, your calmness and positivity are essential to ensure your baby that everything is alright. It might be a little bit difficult for them to adapt, but with your patience, they will have a sturdy place to lean on. After dropping them off, you need to have trust in the nursery staff as they are very used to this process and are better experienced at handling children on their first day of nursery.

Nursery Bag Essentials

Their nursery bag is just as important as their mental preparation on this special day. Having their own set of essentials in a place they are not used to spending time in gives them a sense of familiarity, helping them feel a little bit more at ease, and get used to this unique environment. What do children need in their bags when they are going to nursery? Let’s make a list.

• Bag: Your bag of choice is important for storing and protecting all your little one’s belongings. Having a bag sturdy enough to fit your child’s needs and stylish enough to fit their wants is essential to both ensure quality and encourage them.

• Nappies, wipes and creams: If you have a young child who is not yet done with potty training, it is important that in the bag you have a stock of the items that you use at home. Bringing whole bags of nappies and wipes to the nursery to eliminate the need to bring in extras each day can make your life easier. Usually, nurseries label your child’s pack of nappies and wipes and store them in the nappy changing area. It is also helpful to provide the rash creams you would like your child to have applied while at nursery.

• Coat: The weather is not always trustworthy, and it is always nice to be prepared for both the best and the worst. At nurseries, all children have access to the outdoors every day. While their time might be limited by the changes in the weather, they will still go out. It is important that children have the appropriate clothing to do so.

• Outdoor shoes/Wellies: Having appropriate kids shoes to complement their coats is just as essential to ensure full protection from weather conditions. Wellies are great for use in wet weather and easily put on and take off.

• Spare sets of clothes: At the nursery, your child will be engaging in many activities each day and will go through many changes of clothes as they do at home. When packing your child’s nursery bag, make sure to bring at least 3 changes of clothes so that whenever your baby’s clothes get messy, they can be changed into fresh new ones.

• Sun cream and sun hat: For the unexpected appearances of the sun, having baby’s sun cream packed in your child’s bag is a lifesaver. Your child having their own sun cream suitable for their own needs also prevents any issues or allergic reactions.

• Extra underwear: Small accidents can happen at any moment, and it is important to be cautious. Having spare changes of underwear is always the best to be safe and not sorry.

• Comfort item: Having a reminder of home can provide your little one comfort and reassurance. This might be a soft toy, their dummy, blanket, or any other item that they love to keep with themselves most of the time. To avoid losing or forgetting the item, you can purchase a double of it and keep the original at home.

• Any necessary medication: If your child needs access to medication whilst at nursery, it is important to notify the caregivers and bring the baby’s medication.

“Any problem in the child’s physical development can create permanent results.”

Physical development is an essential part of a healthy life. Great importance should be attached to physical development at an early age because, at those ages, human development takes place at maximum speed. 

One of the most important factors to be considered in the physical development of children is adequate nutrition. As human development takes place at maximum speed at those ages, the child’s body needs a lot of energy to respond to this rapid development. If children do not have a balanced and adequate diet, they cannot produce the energy necessary for their development.

As a result, various disruptions may occur in their development. To prevent developmental problems related to nutrition, you should apply a balanced nutrition program to your child. But remember, an excessive amount of nutrition does not mean adequate nutrition. 

You should not perceive physical development only as your child’s body changes. With the help of physical development, you can find the opportunity to support your child’s mental and social/emotional development.

When children want to try new movements, you should help them create suitable environments where they can do so. You should not expect them to try something beyond what they are able to. You should perceive the mistakes they make as a process of finding the right path. When the child encounters judgements or prejudice on trial, they will stop trying the action after a while, and this will cause them to lose their self-confidence. As a result, their social development will be impaired. As a parent, by avoiding these movements, you also avoid any potential risks to your child’s development.

Toddlers

At ages 2-3, your child can run in a balanced way and swing her arms from side to side like an adult. On the first days, when your child is climbing up the stairs, they might need to stop with both feet on each step but then they can start to climb up with one foot at a time. They can only catch big balls during the first few days, but later on, they also start to catch small balls. They can jump from the bottom step of a ladder, walk on tiptoe, push things with wheels, and draw and paint various things.

In advanced months of these ages, they can ride a tricycle, climb on small toys in parks, jump on one leg, get dressed and brush their teeth with assistance.

What can you do to support the development of your toddler?

• Go to playgrounds and encourage them to climb and slide.
• Take walks together and let them ride a tricycle.
• Play games like chase and hide and seek together.
• Imitate animals together and try to move like them. (Jump like a kangaroo, crawl like a snake, etc.)
• Fly a kite together.
• Fly bubbles and try to follow and catch them.
• Provide environments for them to play with their peers. (park trips, picnics, entertainment centres, etc.)
• Have them use big pencils when drawing.
• Avoid giving them very sharp tools. 
• Get building blocks at different sizes and weights, play with them, and build various places with those blocks. (castles, zoos, museums, etc.)
• Buy wooden puzzles and help your child sort the puzzle.
• Get play dough and lead your child to create different shapes.

Preschoolers

At ages 4 to 6, children begin to lose their infancy gradually. The increase in body fat slows down, and your child’s height-weight balance begins to change. Their neck begins to lengthen and so their appearance changes. Your little one is now old enough to do many activities by themselves. You should encourage and support them to do these activities during this period.

What can you do to support the development of your preschooler?

• Do cycling, walking and jogging tours with your child.
• Let your child help you with household chores (such as watering the flowers, vacuuming the carpet, going shopping, dusting, etc.)
• Turn on a song you both love and dance together to this song and try to catch the rhythm.
• Perform their favourite cartoon or book character.
• Play the ball games together.
• Try somersaults together.
• Draw various shapes on the ground and ask your child to walk on them. 
• Let them climb trees.
• Let them roll on the ground. Create spaces where they can move freely in the house. 
• Plant a tree or flower together. 
• Let them pour their favourite drink from the pitcher into their glass.

Would you like to share your experiences or questions as a comment?

Have a nice and healthy day!

Why Do Children Imitate and Copy Others? 

Childhood is a phase of incredible transformation, where young minds are constantly absorbing and processing information from their surroundings. One striking behavior that has captivated the attention of researchers and parents alike is imitation. Why do children imitate and copy others? The answer to this question is rooted in the complex interplay of cognitive, social, and emotional development.

Imitation is a fundamental learning mechanism that plays a pivotal role in a child’s cognitive and social development. From the moment they enter the world, children are biologically wired to imitate those around them. It is a way of acquiring knowledge, understanding their environment, and forming connections with others.

One of the primary drivers behind a child’s inclination to imitate is their innate curiosity. Young minds are naturally inquisitive, and they learn by observing and emulating the actions, behaviors, and expressions of the people in their immediate environment. By copying these actions, children gain a deeper understanding of the world and its intricacies. This process of observational learning is essential for acquiring essential life skills, from basic motor skills like grasping objects to more complex social behaviors.

Imitation is also closely tied to a child’s developing sense of self and identity. As they observe and mimic those around them, children are not merely replicating actions; they are testing their own abilities, understanding their place within their social context, and forming a sense of identity through the relationships they cultivate.

Moreover, imitation is a tool for building social connections. It’s a way for children to bond with parents, caregivers, siblings, and peers. When children imitate others, it’s an expression of their desire to belong, be accepted, and strengthen social bonds. It’s a non-verbal form of communication, signaling, “I want to be a part of your world.” In the next section, we’ll explore the practical steps and strategies for parents and caregivers to support and nurture this natural inclination in children.

Practical Steps for Parents

As parents and caregivers, understanding the significance of imitation is crucial. It offers a profound insight into a child’s developmental needs and offers opportunities for guidance and support. Encouraging healthy imitation by modeling positive behaviors and providing a safe and nurturing environment for exploration and learning can be highly beneficial. On the other hand, being mindful of the behaviors and attitudes we exhibit, knowing that children are watching and imitating, reinforces the vital role we play in their development.

In conclusion, children imitate because it’s a fundamental component of their learning, self-discovery, and social development. Recognizing the power of imitation enables us to create an environment that fosters healthy development and helps children cultivate a sense of belonging within their families and communities.

How Can You Support Your Child’s Social Development?

Supporting your child’s social development, particularly in terms of imitation and developing a sense of belonging, is essential for their growth and well-being. Here are some practical suggestions for parents:

Imitation:

1. Be a Positive Role Model: Children learn by observing, so you should have model behaviors and actions you want them to emulate.
2. Encourage Pretend Play: You should provide opportunities for imaginative play, which allows children to imitate different roles and scenarios.
3. Acknowledge and Praise Efforts: When your child imitates positive behaviors or attempts new things, you should provide positive reinforcement and praise.
4. Offer Diverse Social Interactions: It is always a good idea to arrange playdates or activities with other children, as peer imitation is a significant aspect of development.
5. Engage in Joint Activities: You can participate in shared activities like crafts, cooking, or games that involve imitation and cooperative learning.

Developing a Sense of Belonging:

1. Create a Warm and Supportive Environment: You should foster a home environment where your child feels safe, loved, and valued.
2. Encourage Family Bonding: Needles to say that spending quality time together as a family is a fantastic suggestion, whether it’s through game nights, shared meals, or outings.
3. Foster Friendships: You should support your child in building friendships by arranging playdates and helping them navigate social interactions.
4. Teach Empathy:  You should help your child understand and recognize the feelings and perspectives of others, promoting empathy and kindness.
5. Celebrate Achievements: As much as you can, you should acknowledge and celebrate your child’s accomplishments, whether big or small, to boost their self-esteem.
6. Listen Actively: Encouragement is the point! You should listen to your child’s thoughts and feelings, and validate their experiences.
7. Involve Children in Decision-Making: You should allow them to have a say in family decisions, which makes them feel a sense of belonging and responsibility.
8. Cultural Awareness: You should teach your child about their cultural background and heritage to help them develop a sense of belonging to their cultural identity.
9. Community Involvement: You should engage in community activities or events that allow your child to feel connected to a broader sense of belonging.
10. Support Individuality: While promoting belonging, also allow your child to express their uniqueness and opinions, reinforcing that they are valued for who they are.

Remember that each child is unique, and the pace of development varies. You need to be patient, provide a loving and nurturing environment, and be actively involved in your child’s life to support their social development and sense of belonging.

In conclusion, nurturing your child’s social development, from imitation to fostering a sense of belonging, is an invaluable investment in their future. These early years lay the foundation for their self-esteem, emotional intelligence, and ability to form meaningful connections with others. As parents, you play a pivotal role in guiding them on this beautiful journey of growth and discovery. You do not forget that the small moments of shared laughter, the comforting presence during times of uncertainty, and the opportunities for exploration are all building blocks for your child’s development. So, embrace each day with love, patience, and a sense of wonder.

If you have any questions or insights to share, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. We value your thoughts, and we’re here to support you on this incredible journey of parenting. Thank you for being a part of our community, and we look forward to connecting with you again soon!

4-year-old may have trouble focusing on more than one object at the same time. They usually focus their attention on one thing (events, people or objects) and ignore the rest. For example, they may focus on the most attractive part or feature of a specific toy. They may have difficulty categorising objects according to both colour and shape. They can understand the concepts of “longest” and “shortest,” “narrowest” and “widest,” but have difficulty recognizing that there is anything between those two extremes. Therefore, they are usually unable to sort objects from long to short.

How to Support their Cognitive Development?

• We shouldn’t expect complex logical thinking from children at this age. Considering that their focus is limited, you can opt for plain educational and play materials without too many details.
• Exposing your child to a wide variety of experiences and focused activities stimulates their cognitive development. Children establish new mental connections and develop problem-solving skills with each new situation or object they encounter.
• Playing board games with 4-year-old children supports their ability to develop different strategies and to solve problems in more ways than one.

Would you like to share your experiences and questions as a comment?

Wishing you well!

When you have a baby, the first question everyone asks is: “Is it a boy or a girl?” Gender often influences the choice of the colours of the nursery, your baby’s clothes, and the toys you start dreaming of buying – a doll for a girl, a car for a boy. All these choices, which not only you but so many of us make without realizing it, bring the following question to mind: Are children’s character traits innate or do they develop as a result of our influence? In other words, are they the result of nature or nurture?

Most experts agree that both factors play a role. Research has shown that nature and genetics play an important role. Already in the womb babies’ brains develop differently according to their gender. This has long-term effects. For instance, when growing up, boys will usually be good at physical activities, while girls often excel in writing and speaking. Strikingly, experiments have also shown that young male monkeys, when presented with toys, naturally choose moving objects like cars and helicopters, while the females tend to opt for dolls and plush toys. 1 There is no doubt that there are many physical and psychological differences between girls and boys from the moment they are born.

Nurture, or the upbringing within the family and society, is also crucial in character formation. We expect girls to be “good” and to adapt to the social environment better than boys, so we are often more tolerant toward boys being noisy, overactive, etc. At the same time, boys are told not to cry, while crying is tolerated more in girls. Experiments show that caregivers even push stereotypically gender-specific toys on kids, even when they prefer a different toy. Our own behaviour clearly influences gender behaviour in the long run.

Boys More Prone to Disease

From infancy, boys get sick considerably more and have a higher mortality rate than girls. Experts agree that the hormone testosterone plays a role in this.

Height and Weight

On average, boys are taller and weigh more than girls. Because of this, they are usually slower to sit up as a baby, but they learn to walk more quickly, thanks to their stronger legs. After the walking phase, however, researchers have observed similar gross motor development in boys and girls.

Social Behaviour

Girls are usually more social and talkative than boys. The differences in socialization are already present in the first weeks of life, as girls smile twice as much as boys. Of course, this difference may also be influenced by the behaviour of the caregivers, because we expect

girls to be sweet and may smile at them more. A study conducted in the United States also reveals that, from infancy, males react more strongly to their mother’s refusal, which girls tend to accept more easily.

Active Boys and Imaginative Girls

Boys tend to play more physical, active and rougher games. Girls, on the other hand, prefer imaginative role-playing games. While this tendency stems from nature, caregivers further stimulate this by buying dolls for girls and swords for boys. They tend to encourage boys to roughhouse, while telling girls to be careful, not to get dirty or hurt themselves. Finally, people praise boys for being tough and brave while they compliment girls for being cute and sweet.

Social Skills

As toddlers, girls often show more independence than boys, in terms of dressing, eating, toilet habits, etc. This is largely because caregivers are more protective of boys, while girls are expected to become independent and imitate their moms. In general, girls also fit in more easily into preschool. One reason might be their well-developed social skills, but researchers also conjecture that the nursery teachers, who are overwhelmingly female, create a female environment which makes it easier for girls to fit in.

Toy Choices

Research has shown that girls are generally comfortable playing with boys’ toys, while boys are often uncomfortable playing with girls’ toys. Experts assume this is because parents often object to boys playing with dolls and other “girly” toys.

Language Learning

Girls generally start speaking earlier than boys. This may be explained by the different brain development in the womb and the different socialization of girls. Fathers, for example, have been observed to talk twice as much to their daughters as to their sons.

Would you like to share your experiences and questions as a comment?

Wishing you well!

The foundation of dental health in advanced ages is laid in childhood, and this requires being more cautious about tooth decay in children. Otherwise, the probability of experiencing health problems that can lead to tooth loss, especially gum diseases and dental caries, is quite high. 

So, let’s examine together the factors that cause tooth decay in children and the suggestions that prevent it. 

What Are the Symptoms of Tooth Decay in Children? 

Caries-causing bacteria in the mouth form the contents of a structure called plaque. Bacteria in plaque convert food residues in the mouth into organic acids. These acids disrupt the structure of the tooth enamel, fill the spaces on the tooth surface and begin to erode the enamel. As a result, a problem called tooth decay occurs. 

Below are some of the symptoms that can help in understanding tooth decay. 

• White spots may appear on the surface of the tooth (tooth enamel).
• Sensitivity may occur in the teeth. 
• Inadvanced caries cases, severe pain may occur during eating and drinking. 
• Gaps may occur on the tooth. 
• Light brown, dark brown and black pits may occur, respectively. 
• There may be an unpleasant bad breath. 

Early detection of cavities in children is much more difficult. Because symptoms such as tenderness, blemishes and pain are not complained by the child until they become severe. For this reason, you should pay attention to the causes and precautions of dental caries in your baby. 

What Causes Tooth Decay in Children? 

Parents may find it surprising that cavities develop in young children. Although good oral care is being done, it is possible to encounter cavities sometimes. Below are the most effective reasons behind this. 

• Children’s inability to perform oral care as detailed as adults 
• Thinner tooth enamel 
• Milk teeth have more organic matter 

There can be many different factors that can cause the onset and progression of caries in the teeth. The causes of early tooth decay in children can be listed as follows.

Genetic Predisposition

Some children may have a genetic predisposition to dental caries. If there are individuals with plaque and caries problems in the family, similar problems may occur in the child over time. In addition, reasons such as the natural structure of the tooth, developmental disorders in the tooth and crooked teeth can cause the necessary conditions for the onset of caries.

Dental Plaques

Dental plaques are among the primary causes of caries formation in children as well as adults. Microorganisms and caries-causing bacteria found in the natural oral flora settle in the hard-to-reach places of the teeth that touch each other, cover and erode the tooth enamel. Plaque covering the surface of the teeth is the most obvious source of cavities.

Consumption of Foods Rich in Carbohydrates

One factor alone is not enough for a tooth to decay. When the excessive consumption of sugary foods is added to the presence of plaque, an undesirable acid emerges and this acid damages the teeth. For this reason, sugary, high-calorie and starchy foods should not be consumed during the day when the teeth are not brushed. When such foods are consumed, the amount of acid that occurs increases and the teeth that are exposed to this acid begin to wear.

Not Brushing the Teeth Well

The most basic point to protect dental health in children is to brush the teeth regularly and well. Since hand and small muscle skills are not fully developed, every child may not be able to perform tooth brushing in detail. Many children may even be reluctant to brush their teeth. Not using the brush in a way that it touches every part of the teeth or not brushing at all can increase the formation of plaque and cause tooth decay.

Duration of Food in the Mouth

The longer the food stays in the mouth, the more bacteria will form. Since food residues will remain in the mouth for a longer time after frequent meals, this triggers the formation of caries.

What Problems Does Tooth Decay Cause in Children? 

Milk teeth are not the main teeth of children. The first teeth that begin to fall out at the age of 6-7 on average are replaced by permanent teeth over time. Towards the age of 12, all teeth are completed. However, the first tooth decay in children can cause some problems. 

• Untimely decayed and lost first teeth may cause false, crooked and damaged permanent teeth to be erupted in the future.
• Defects in jaw development may occur due to defective teeth.
• Tooth loss as a result of early tooth decay can cause speech retardation in children. Hearing and speaking skills may be impaired.
• Nutritional disorders and difficulty in eating may occur due to tooth decay.
• Lack of self-confidence and shyness may occur in children due to the bad appearance of bruises.

What Are the Ways to Prevent Dental Caries in Children? 

Paying attention to oral health and paying attention to some tricks help prevent tooth decay in children. 

The ways to prevent caries formation can be listed as follows. 

• Teeth should be brushed regularly since the first teeth erupt.
• Care should be taken in choosing toothbrushes for children. Brushes with soft and dense bristles suitable for the mouth structure are ideal.
• Correct tooth brushing techniques should be taught to the child. If he can’t brush his teeth on his own yet, you can support him. Make sure that the brush reaches every point.
• In young children, flossing should be started at 2-3 years of age and later.
• Teeth cleaning in babies can be done by gently wiping with the help of a wet cheesecloth or cloth instead of a brush.
• Children’s consumption of foods containing excessive sugar should be limited.
• Even if tooth brushing is not possible after each meal, the mouth should be thoroughly rinsed with water. Making children who do not know how to rinse their mouths drink water after the meal will also be sufficient to remove the food residues.
• Attention should be paid to a balanced diet. It should be ensured that children consume plenty of vegetables, fruits, dairy products and foods containing protein.
• With the use of fissure sealants in children from the age of 6, measures can be taken against decay by covering the gaps on the tooth enamel.
• Dentist controls should be started for children who are over the age of 1, and teeth should be checked by making regular visits to the doctor.

Since tooth decay is a common problem in children, it requires regular follow-up. Mothers and fathers should take care of the oral care of young children themselves, while older children should check their dental health frequently. 

Would you like to share your experiences and questions as a comment?

Have a nice and healthy day!

At What Age Do Children’s Eye Problems Occur? 

During the development process that starts in the mother’s womb, the eyesight of the babies has not yet developed. It detects lights and distinguishes between dark and light and can distinguish very close objects. However, full vision begins to settle at 3-4 months of age. In premature babies, as a result of not completing the development yet, later visual function may occur. 

In this developmental period, eye tests should be performed and examined from infancy. You may find that very young children use glasses or have problems such as strabismus. Eye problems, which can also develop due to a genetic condition, can be observed in children between the ages of 3-6. Eye check-ups should be done in the first 6 months, 18 months and 3-6 years of age. 

When Should the First Inspection Be Done? 

Parents who follow the development process from the moment they are born may not immediately notice the eye problems of the little ones. In order to better understand these problems, eye tests should be added to the doctor’s controls. According to a study by experts, it has been revealed that 5% to 15% of children experience eye problems. In children in the percentile, the problems were noticed too late. In cases such as late detection, eye problems may progress, so examinations should be performed between the ages of 2-4 with a regular control. If there is a problem in new-borns or 1-year-old babies, an earlier examination should be performed without interruption. 

Eye Problems in Children 

Problems such as strabismus, cross-eye and visual disturbances are among the eye problems that can be seen in children. Many problems that you do not realize can develop in your child’s eyes. For this reason, it will be very useful to have information about possible problems. 

• Strabismus

Strabismus is one of the eye problems seen at an early age. It can occur immediately after birth or later. 

1. One eye is positioned differently from the other (shifted down, up, sideways, or vice versa). 
2. There may be vision problems in the eye with squint. 
3. Regression is observed in other developmental areas due to insufficient vision. 
4. It can be treated if early intervention with surgery or glasses is used. 

• Lazy Eye (Amblyopia)

It occurs as a result of the eye failing to perform its normal vision or seeing less than the other eye. Amblyopia is a condition that requires a doctor’s examination and is difficult for parents to understand at a young age. 

1. There are problems such as drooping eyelids, strabismus, false focus and cataracts among the causes of lazy eye.
2. Do not forget that if your child has eye problems, the probability of experiencing amblyopia may also be high. 
3. According to experts, lazy eye should be treated until 7-8 years of age. 
4. Unless treated, lazy eye may progress and cause vision loss. 
5. It can be treated by closing the healthy eye and allowing the lazy eye to focus on vision. Your doctor may also recommend that you wear glasses.

• Refraction Problems Myopia and Hyperopia 

The light refraction problem of the eye, which is seen at all ages and the inability to see far or near, is a common problem in young ages. Myopia and hyperopia may also be common, depending on the damage caused by devices such as televisions, phones and tablets offered by technology. 

1. High-grade visual impairments can be reduced using glasses in childhood. 
2. Your child’s watching TV from a close distance, reading a book close to his eyes, or squinting while looking away may be signs of myopia and hyperopia. 

• Dry Eyes and Congested Eye Canals 

Frequent rubbing of children’s eyes, redness of the eyes and watery eyes is a problem associated with infection. However, occlusion of the eye canals is among the eye diseases seen in children. It is a health problem that can be seen in people of all ages and between the ages of 3-7. 

1. If dry eye pain lasts for a long time, which is generally seen as a short-term problem; it is useful to visit a doctor. 
2. In this process, necessary operation or treatment with eye drops can be applied. 
3. Tearing or inflammation does not always indicate clogged eyecanals. Therefore, it is useful to consult your doctor. 

• Cataract

Cataract, which is thought to be a problem encountered only in advanced ages, can also be seen at early ages. Unless intervened at an early age, problems that can go up to blindness can be seen. 

1. Asymptomsuch as a yellow spot or layer may be seen in the eye. 
2. Itmay develop depending on the health problems of the mother in the womb. 
3. Cataractcan be seen in the baby as a result of the mother’s infection or the drugs she uses. 
4. It should be treated in the first 6 months and up to 2 years of age.Ifthe treatment is delayed, vision loss and disturbances may occur. 

Signs That Help You Understand Your Child’s Eye Problems 

Understanding eye problems in your child can sometimes be difficult. You can understand eye problems by observing some of your child’s behaviours at home or at school. Symptoms of these problems can be: 

1. Squinting to see better 
2. Looking very closely at the screen 
3. Reading the book by holding it close to your eyes 
4. Light sensitivity 
5. Redness in the eyes 
6. Inflammation and cross-eye (long-term) 
7. Dry eyes and watery eyes
8. Strabismus

If such symptoms are also seen in your child, we recommend that you get help from a doctor with a routine control. Some eye problems show improvement when intervened at an early age. Therefore, you should observe your children well. 

Eye problems in children can be observed after birth or between the ages of 2-6. You should take your children to a doctor’s check for vision disorders such as myopia or hyperopia that cannot be understood at home. A visible problem: In case of problems such as strabismus or watery eyes, you should observe your child and take her to the doctor. You should have your child have regular eye check-ups between the ages of 2-4. 

Would you like to share your experiences and questions?

Have a nice and healthy day!