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‘Special parents’ of special children What I found inspiring in your cover story ‘Parenting primer for children with disability’ was the emphasis on parents practicing self-care to be able to “run the marathon of caring for children with special needs”. I am the mother of a hyperactive seven-year-old, who has suffered delayed speech but is an otherwise sharp kid with more than average intelligence. I know many parents of autistic children who delight in every small achievement of their child. Indeed, these parents are as ‘special’ as their children. Your article was more than welcome as I am reassured that many parents face similar problems. Rima Bidushi Bengaluru Beneficial & informative I am a special educator and regular reader of your esteemed magazine. I believe the larger parents’ community will immensely benefit from reading your high-quality, informative magazine. Your latest cover story (PW August) is well-researched and written. It highlights the critical role parents play in enabling children with special needs to realise their full potential. As a special educator I have interacted and taught a number of special needs children with high levels of intelligence and dollops of creativity, who have grown up to become super achievers. They need assistance to discover and develop their interests and multiple intelligences. Moreover, all parents need to make it a priority to educate ‘able’ children about the importance of creating inclusive school/social environments. I also liked Dr. Sachin Baliga’s suggestions in ‘Ask Your Counselor’ on how to manage sensitive children. Today’s children have strong views and opinions, and it is often difficult to explain and rationalise with them. Shamilee Subramanian Chennai Practical & enlightening Elise Woodman’s special essay on the importance of staying connected with your teenager (PW August) was practical and enlightening. As the parent of a teen, I have taken serious note of the research study which says that 80 percent of teenagers surveyed rated family connections very highly. Adolescence is a difficult time for children who undergo many physical and psychological changes. During this time they need the full support and cooperation of parents and family. Your Middle Years article on giving children choices (PW August) was also thought provoking. As much as we value our freedom to make choices, our children may demand the same. I agree with your child development and parenting experts who advocate that providing children choices from youngest age enables them to develop independence, decision making skills and self confidence. Nupur Saxena Pune Busted myth I applaud Dr. Suhail Ambi for busting the myth about getting wet in the rain (Ask your doctor, PW August). Only prolonged exposure to wet conditions causes health problems. Childhood without fun and frolic in the rain and other rainy day adventures is boring. Many new-age hyper parents are depriving children of their childhood by being over-anxious. There are several other myths such as eating ice-cream will lead to a cold infection, and that a pregnant woman should eat for two. I suggest you do a special story just…