JAMMU: The Department of Home Science (Human Development), University of Jammu organized a parent enrichment program on the theme ‘Health lifestyle for optimal child development’ for the parents of children in early childhood years. The department of home science runs a laboratory nursery school, which provides quality early childhood care and education to the children in the foundational age of 6 months to 6 years.
While elaborating on the objectives of the parent enrichment program Prof. Sarika Manhas, Head of the department mentioned that this program provides parents with knowledge and tools to improve their parenting skills, and contribute effectively towards holistic development of their children. She highlighted that effective parenting in early childhood is fundamental in shaping a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, laying the groundwork for future success and well-being. She further mentioned that Addressing lifestyle issues is essential if the children are to realise their full human potential.
The resource persons for the program were Prof. Rajni Dhingra, former Dean Research Studies, University of Jammu, Dr. Archana Bhat, Nutritionist and Assistant Professor, GCW Gandhi Nagar, and Ms. Lily Bhan, Parental Coach and Center Head Brainpreneurs, CDC. Prof. Rajni Dhingra in her session talked about challenges and advantages of contemporary parenting. She was of the view that modern parents benefit from extensive research on child development, more educational resources and technological tools that can provide them support. However, at the same time, parents today face new stresses such as balancing work and family life, navigating social media influences and dealing with a rapidly changing world. She further suggested that parents need to be more informed and involved in the lives of their children.
Dr. Archana Bhat, a certified Nutritionist, in her elaborate session discussed the importance of nutrition in the optimal development of the children. She highlighted that a well-balanced diet strengthens the immune system, helping children to fend off illnesses and infections. She explained about the need for balanced intake of carbohydrates, fats and proteins, especially by growing children.
She also deliberated on addressing nutritional imbalances through changes in diet and lifestyle such as adopting healthier eating habits, improving food choices, and increasing physical activity. Ms. Lily Bhan, Parental Coach focused on monitoring screen time for children to ensure a healthy balance between digital and non-digital activities. She mentioned that excessive screen time can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle which becomes a precursor for obesity and related health issues. She emphasized that overexposure to digital media and devices can interfere with young children’s sleep patterns and can have adverse effect on their language development, social development, and emotional wellbeing.
The program saw the active participation of the parents, with the experts adeptly answering the queries raised by them. Prominent among those who attended the programme were Prof. Shashi Manhas (Deptt of Home Science, JU), Dr. Chinmoyee Maharana (Deptt of Zoology, JU), Dr. Sandeep Dubey (Deptt. of Dogri JU), Dr. Priyanka Arya (Deptt of Sanskrit, JU), Dr. Sarbjeet Kaur (Deptt of Zoology, JU), Dr. Shelly (Central University of Jammu), Mrs. Mamta Singh, Mrs. Pooja Bhatt, and Mrs. Seema Sharma (Nursery School teachers).
The program was conducted and managed by the students of 2nd semester of M.Sc Human Development, JU namely, Ms. Sunaina, Ms. Tanisha, Ms. Avantika and Ms. Ganga.
