Discover 10 Unhealthy Kid Snacks and Their Healthy Alternatives

 Frequent snacking is a part of growing up, and it is easy for kids to get drawn towards attractive packaging and enticing advertisements. Therefore, it comes down to our shoulders as mothers to save our munchkins from unhealthy kid snacks that claim to be loaded with nutrients. Let's discover 10 commonly consumed unhealthy foods for kids and their healthy alternatives.

 

10 Shocking Unhealthy Kid Snacks and their effect on children's health

Children often love to munch on smaller meals in the form of sugary delights and popular kid snacks. However, most of these popular favorite brands contain harmful ingredients, like sugar, sodium, artificial colors and flavors, preservatives, unhealthy fats, and more. Despite their questionable ingredients, these snacks have become a staple in every household. Here is a list of 10 such shockingly unhealthy kids’ snacks and their harmful effects on children’s health.

 

Chips and Fries

These deep-fried finger delights are everyone's favorite. However, they are often loaded with salt and trans-fats. Regular consumption of these snacks can raise bad cholesterol, cause obesity, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and even respiratory disorders.

 

Chocolate Milk

Many parents try to encourage milk consumption by adding hot chocolate or chocolate powder. I have been guilty of this too! However, this can increase their preference for sweet flavors and suppresses any health benefits of consuming raw milk. In addition, chocolate milk can spike blood sugar levels within minutes. Furthermore, packaged milk is often laced with hormones that are not safe for kids and may cause PCOD and premature periods among young girls.

 

Doughnuts

No matter how tempting they seem, these dollops of bread glazed with chocolate, cream, and toppings are highly dangerous for kids' health. Doughnuts are loaded with food additives, artificial flavours, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and processed sugar. Frequent consumption of food additives like monosodium glutamate or MSG can cause obesity, headache, tissue damage, and even cancer.  

 

Butter, Jam, and Cheese

Ever imagine consuming a piece of bread without a spread of butter or jam? I bet your kids will love a spoonful of cheese with a grilled sandwich, won’t they? Although they sound like breakfast staples, butter, jam, and cheese contain saturated fats, preservatives, and chemical pollutants, posing damaging and lasting health effects for kids.

 

Also Read - Essential Kitchen Ingredients for Good Health

Candies and Lollipops

Who can turn down these sugary delights filled with artificial coloring, flavors, and loads of sugar? Trust me, these gums, candies, and lollipops have zero nutritional value. Daily consumption of such sugary treats can cause cavities, plaques, and other severe dental issues in kids.

 

Popcorn

Do you know that ready-to-cook popcorn packs are actually unhealthy?

Be it a movie night or a weekend day out, popcorn flavoured with cheese, caramel, and salt is a must-have for my kids. The ready-to-make packets have made it even easier to prepare them instantly and pack them along. 

However, the popcorn loaded with cheese, butter, etc, has reduced health benefits as compared to simple ones. In fact, the added salt, sugar, or butter simply increase fats and calories that are not needed by children.

Additionally, often considered a healthy alternative, these munchies are considered an unhealthy food for toddlers and kids under 5 years because they can pose choking hazards when they enter the windpipe and dental issues when they stick to the teeth and gums.

 

Pastries, Cakes, and Cookies

Most of these baked delights are prepared with refined flour, refined sugar, and added fats. Despite their tantalizing flavors, store-bought pastries, cakes, and cookies provide no essential nutrients. Moreover, they are loaded with calories and preservatives, posing long-term health hazards.

 

Fried, Broiled, and Grilled Foods

Despite their palatable flavours, foods like pasta, pizza, burgers, and veg patties contain lots of calories and unhealthy fats. Moreover, cooking under high temperatures releases unhealthy chemicals in these snacks, increasing the risk of heart disease and cancer in kids.

 

Fruity Snacks

The word fruit on any box works as a spell, screaming healthy. However, most of the fruity snacks are prepared using corn syrup, artificial colors, food coloring, and artificial flavors. Although they may taste like a favourite fruit to your kids, they have no trace of fruit in them. Plus, they are loaded with preservatives that may cause obesity, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar when consumed for long periods.

 

Sweetened Yogurt And Canned Drinks

How come yogurt is an unhealthy food for preschoolers? Believe it or not, even sweetened yogurt is loaded with artificial flavors, sugar, and preservatives to mask all its benefits and categorize it as unhealthy. Likewise, canned drinks are a health hazard for kids, and their long-term consumption can deteriorate tooth enamel, cause dental issues, obesity, and even severe digestive issues in kids. 

 

Healthy Alternatives to Unhealthy Kids' Foods

Now you must be thinking, “My kids are crazy about these snacks! How shall I stop them from taking any of these?” 

This struggle is obvious for every mom! But here is the kicker. We do not have to stop our kids from having snacks; we just need to replace the unhealthy ones with healthier alternatives. 

What! Is it even possible? 

Well, the answer is yes! 

Most of these snacks can be prepared at home to give a healthier alternative to kids. For example, replace fries and chips with home-baked potato chips and crackers. Replace chocolate powder with homemade protein powder, which not only enhances the taste of milk but also strengthens the mind and body. 

Replace aerated drinks with lemonade, coconut water, or freshly prepared fruit smoothies.

Here are some delicious homemade snacks to substitute for unhealthy junk items:

 

Roasted Makhana or Gur Makhana

Makhanas are a rich source of calcium and protein with a low-calorie index. You can prepare them sweet or salty, depending on the flavour your child prefers.

Roasted Makhana Recipe - Toast the makhanas in ghee until crisp. Add salt, black pepper, and chaat masala to enhance the tangy flavour.  Serve whenever your kids crave deep-fried chips.

Crispy Gur Makhana Recipe - My kids love this recipe. To prepare gur makhana, dry roast fox nuts in a skillet until they are crisp. Keep them aside and add 1 teaspoon of ghee and jaggery to the skillet. Let it melt and switch off the flame. Add roasted makhanas and give a good stir so that the faux nuts are coated with a layer of melted jaggery. 

Sprinkle some white sesame seeds on top. Separate the makhanas before serving, as they may stick together because of the jaggery. This recipe takes only five minutes to prepare, and your kids will crave more of it.

 

Jaggery Ladoos

Replace the sugar-filled candies with delicious jaggery ladoos. Add oats and a variety of nuts to make them healthier.

Homemade dry fruits laddoos are way better than unhealthy pastries and candies!

Recipe - Individually dry roast nuts like almonds, cashews, pistachios, and walnuts. Keep aside to cool. Dry roast seeds like melon seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds. Add to the nuts. Dry roast makhanas, peanuts, and oats. Keep aside to cool. 

Once everything is cool enough. Add them to a blender and prepare a fine powder. Add a teaspoon of ghee with some jaggery in a skillet. Once it melts, switch off the flame and add the powdered ingredients. Once everything is mixed, prepare small ball-sized ladoos. 

 

Sprouted Moong Salad

This one is easy to prepare, tasty, and healthy at the same time. Add your kids' favourite veggies to sprouted moong. Top up with pomegranate, lemon, and chaat masala for a tangy twist. You can even fill it inside bread to prepare sandwiches served with homemade ketchup, dips, or chutneys.

 

Homemade Dips (Chutneys) And Ketchups

There are a variety of recipes when it comes to homemade chutneys. You can prepare them sweet or salty, depending on the taste preference of your kids. Traditional green chutney prepared with onion, coriander, mint, and spices is a no-fail companion for homemade fritters. My kids favour a pinch of sweetness, so I prepare a sweeter version with tomatoes, coriander, spices, and a hint of sugar. Here is a quick recipe for homemade tomato ketchup.

Recipe - Put a thick-bottomed cooker or crock-pot on the stove. Add diced tomatoes, water, cloves, mustard powder, ground black pepper, and salt to taste. You can also add onion and garlic powder to enhance flavors. Stir frequently and cook until the mixture acquires a thick consistency. Blend and strain the mixture, and your homemade ketchup is ready to be served.

 

Homemade Mango Fruity

You heard me right! You can actually prepare mango fruit juice at home, and I bet your kids won’t be able to tell any difference. Here is a quick recipe for you.

Make mango fruit juice at home, just like packaged juice, but healthy!

Recipe - Take ripe and raw mangoes in the ratio 2:1. That means for two cups of chopped ripe mangoes, you will need 1 cup of chopped raw mango. 

Put a pan on the stove and add the mango slices. Add 1 ½ cups of water and cook over medium flame until the mango turns soft and pulpy. Once the mixture cools, transfer and blend it to a smooth consistency. 

Sieve through a strainer. Prepare sugar syrup by mixing 1 ½ cup of sugar in 1 ½ cup of boiling water. Combine the cooled, clear syrup with the strained mango pulp. Add cold water as needed to adjust the taste and consistency.

 

10 Minutes Layered Coffee Cake

If your kids crave chocolates like mine, I bet you will love this coffee cake recipe that tastes even better than chocolate. The best part is that it can be prepared with simple ingredients in no time.

Recipe - Mix 2 ½ teaspoons of coffee powder in 1 teaspoon of hot water. Add ½ cup powdered sugar and ¼ cup refined oil to a mixing bowl or blender. Once they are well combined, add 1 cup sieved wheat flour and 1 ¼ teaspoons baking powder. 

Next, add milk bit by bit until everything is well combined and the batter attains ribbon consistency. Divide into two parts. Add the coffee powder mix in one part. 

Next, grease a baking container with oil and line its bottom with butter paper. Now, keep adding two tablespoons of the cake mix from each part, alternately, in the middle of the greased container. 

You will see layers of two colors being formed. Once all the batter is added to the container, microwave it for 8 minutes. Your fluffy cake will be ready to serve in just 8 minutes. In case, you don't have a microwave, you can also cook it on the stove in a preheated skillet.

 

Swap unhealthy choices with these healthy replacements to make snack time fun and provide added nutrition at the same time.

 

Must Read - Moms' Approved Tasty Kids' recipes

FAQs related to Unhealthy Kids' Snacks

 

Q- Why is kids’ food unhealthy?

Ans - Packaged kid foods contain addictive flavors, colors, and sugar to enhance taste. They are laced with preservatives to increase shelf life, making them unhealthy for consumption.

 

Q- Why do kids prefer unhealthy foods?

Ans- These foods are laced with added flavors and addictive substances to entice children. Some packets also advertise free gifts and goodies inside to attract young kids.

 

Q- What are the tips for making homemade foods attractive to kids?

Ans- Presentation is the key to making homemade food attractive. Try serving it differently and add bright-colored ingredients. Make it flavorful by adding spices. Serve in unique, fancy cutlery with distinctive designs.

Interesting facts and benefits of ginger

Ginger root is a common herb with various medicinal benefits. It is an essential ingredient used in the kitchen for preparing different dishes. Moreover, it has numerous health benefits that can prevent various illnesses in kids and families. Read this post to learn more about the facts, and benefits of ginger ( adrak in Hindi) for your family and your children.

Do you know the medicinal properties and benefits of ginger root?

• Ginger is antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal too.
• It is anti-inflammatory.
• It is an antiseptic and an anti-clotting agent.
• Plus, it is antitussive, analgesic, and antispasmodic.
• Ginger is an anti-coagulant too.
• It contains different kinds of antioxidants.
• It provides ample proteins, minerals, vitamins, and essential oils and contains no cholesterol.                                              

The list is endless. With so many properties and qualities, ginger root is a widely used spice and medicine. It would be a blunder if you ignore it and exclude it from your daily diet.

Uses of Ginger for health issues

Here are some easy uses of ginger in daily life that can benefit kids and adults. However, avoid giving ginger to kids under two.

1. Extract some juice from ginger and mix a spoonful of honey into it. The mixture is ideal to provide relief from a cold and cough.

2. You can also apply ginger oil on the chest and back to treat a cough.

3. Boil some ginger slices in water and now prepare tea as usual. The ginger tea relieves you from sore throat and headache. The recipe is also useful in case of flu, fevers, migraine, and menstrual pain.

4. Ginger is also a safe remedy for pregnant women to deal with morning sickness. However, the quantity should not exceed more than one gram per day.

5. Take one gram of ginger half an hour before travel to avoid motion sickness and nausea. Else, you may take ginger biscuits prior to travel.

6. Incorporate ginger in your daily cooking to enhance the taste and nutritional value. It would also take care of your digestive system.

7. Ginger cures flatulence and indigestion. Chop some ginger into thin strips, add salt, and lemon juice as per taste. The color of ginger will change from yellow to pink. Store it in a jar and keep it in the fridge. Consume half a spoon of the same with lunch and dinner. It would relieve you from gas, heartburn, worms in the stomach, and indigestion.

8. To reduce the pain and inflammation from arthritis, mix some ginger essential oil in your bathwater. You may also apply the fresh ginger paste to the affected area to reduce the pain.

Related Post- Essential Kitchen Ingredients for Good Health

9. Ginger is great for adults, especially for your heart. It prevents blood clotting and controls cholesterol levels. Remember to include it in your meals for a healthy heart.

10. If you have diabetes, then consuming a glass of water mixed with a spoon of ginger juice on an empty stomach in the morning will be beneficial. It would regulate your blood sugar levels.

11. Ginger prevents various kinds of cancer, like colon cancer and cancers of the lung, prostate, pancreas, and breast.

12. Another amazing benefit of ginger for girls and women is menstrual relief. Using ginger during periods can provide relief from pain. A simple way to avail this benefit is to drink a cup of hot ginger tea.

How to Make Ginger Tea?

It's super easy. Simply boil the ginger slices in some water and reduce the water to half. Strain and pour into a cup, add honey as well as lemon juice, if you like, and drink it hot. This simple ginger tea recipe is a remedy for so many health issues.

Fun Fact  with Recipe on Indian Ginger Tea or Adrak Wali Chai

Try Indian ginger tea for flavor and health benefits!

Indian ginger tea is widely famous. It is said, most people start their day with typical ginger tea, have it during work, and beat their exhaustion, again with this adrak chai.

To make ginger tea in Indian style, boil some grated or sliced ginger in 1 cup of water, let it steep till the water is reduced to half.  You may also add basil leaves, cardamom seeds, cloves, etc., to enhance the flavour. Now, add some milk, sugar as per taste and tea leaves. Bring to a boil, strain and drink it hot!

Indian parents offer this ginger tea to kids during the winter season to prevent cold and cough. 

Note on Ginger ( adrak) Usage

If you cannot consume ginger in its original form, then you may also use ginger supplements. Ginger can be consumed raw or in powder form. Its extract is equally valuable. There are numerous mouthwatering ginger recipes like ginger cakes, ginger biscuits, ginger pancakes, ginger preservatives, ginger muffins, ginger sauces, and much more.

Next time, remember to add ginger in your vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes for high flavor, aroma and good health.

                                        

Top Family Getaways Near Mumbai For A Memorable Weekend

Mumbai, the city of dreams, truly has a charisma that draws you towards its charm. And you feel it even more apparently when you spend some time in the city as a resident. I have been a part of the city for only a year, but the city holds a piece of my heart forever. But it's not just because of the top family getaways near Mumbai that make this city so awe-inspiring.

Be it the liveliness of the streets, the enthusiasm of festivals, or the beautifully painted pathways, this city on wheels offers you many small reasons to rejuvenate life around you. From beaches to street foods of Mumbai, temples to landmark places, the city stands tall with pride. And, of course, what I enjoyed most during my stay in Mumbai was exploring the city with my kids. Apart from local sightseeing, Mumbai has many amazing destinations nearby where you can enjoy a memorable weekend with your family. 

Top Family Getaways Near Mumbai

Weekends are supposed to be fun, especially when you have kids in the family. And what better way can there be to make these weekends even more enjoyable than a trip to a scenic and fun-filled location? The city of dreams offers vivid travel options when it comes to fascinating family getaways near Mumbai for a memorable weekend.

 

The Elephanta Caves

Located 10 kilometers east of Mumbai, on an isolated island, the Elephanta Caves provide the shortest escapade from the city. It is perfect for a day trip with family. You can reach the Caves by booking a ferry ride from the Gateway of India. 

Interestingly, an hour-long journey on the pristine waters of the Sea of Oman takes you to the spectacular Island of Caves. In the commute, you will be greeted by seagulls and a fleet of ships, big and small. You can also capture glimpses of the famous Taj Hotel and the Gateway of India from your ferry. 

           Also Read - Important Family Traveling Accessories That You Can't Skip

Once you reach the island, you can either walk or book a toy train to reach the entry point, from where you have to climb 120 stairs to get to the caves. It may sound tiring, but it is not actually. In fact, the entire stairway is lined with handicraft stores and shops, which keep you engaged throughout the climb with their colorful artifacts and a vivid range of products. You can pick perfect souvenirs from these shops. You can also find a few eateries and restaurants midway for a quick snack or tea break.

 

Elephanta Caves- lord Shiva Sculpture, near Mumbai

The Elephanta Caves are dedicated to Lord Shiva. Once you enter the caves, you will witness gigantic monolithic rock-carved structures of Lord Shiva. Amazingly, these depict different phases in the life of the deity as per Hindu mythology. 

Your kids will not only enjoy running through the mystical caves but can also capture some magical, unforgettable pictures inside the caves. Check out the video on my channel to learn more about visiting Elephanta Caves.

 

Video link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2T8Eo24HBwI

 

Matheran

Situated in the lap of the Sahyadri Hills, Matheran is one of the most scenic family getaways near Mumbai. It is one of the smallest hill stations located around 90 km from the city. A 2-hour drive from Mumbai will take you to the foothills of this cinematographic wonder. 

From here, you can trek for 2 km before you reach the top, where you can book a hotel for an overnight stay. Alternatively, you can take the toy train, which will take you to the hilltop, riding through alluring vistas and mesmerising mountain landscapes. It is as magical as the song ‘Kasto Maza Hai Ralai Ma…’ from the movie Parineeta. I am sure you and your kids will love this little adventure together.😊😊

 

Despite being small, Matheran has various viewpoints from where you can capture breathtaking views, enjoy captivating sunsets, and soak in the warmth of the rising sun. You can also refresh your senses at the Doodhani waterfalls, where your kids will love splashing in the water. Moreover, you can enjoy various enthralling adventure sports at multiple locations in the hill station.

 

Alibaug

If you are someone who prefers coastal vibes over mountain views, then Alibaug will provide a perfect escapade for ideal family vacations near Mumbai. Alibaug is a famous hotspot of Mumbaikers for its pristine sun-soaked beaches, fascinating ancient forts, and picture-perfect picnic locations. Together, they make it one of the most idyllic family getaways near Mumbai. 

The only way to get to the coastal town is by a ferry ride from the Gateway of India. You can also find various family-friendly cottages and seaside resorts in Alibaug that set the stage for the most memorable weekends with family.

 

Lonavala

Lonavala is a blissful hill station located at a distance of 80 km from Mumbai. Surrounded by lush green valleys, Lonavala provides a surreal experience of nature like no other hill station near Mumbai. The beauty of the hill station is experienced best during monsoons when nature unfolds its best. 

A pleasant climate, breathtaking mountain views, charming waterfalls, and bone-chilling winds combine to create a magical and unforgettable experience for the visitors. The hill station also has various tourist attractions, from forts and caves to ancient shrines and dams. This beautiful hill station holds something to surprise everyone.

You can capture breathtaking views of the valley from viewpoints like the Tiger Hill and Lions Point while enjoying a plate of fritters with masala tea. The experience of the wind coming from the valley and flowing through your hair is so surreal that you would want to stay there forever. 

                               MUST READ- Tips for Road Trip with Kids

Mahabaleshwar And Panchgani - Long weekend getaway  near Mumbai for families

If you are planning a long weekend holiday near Mumbai, then no place can be a better pick than Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani. Still untouched by urbanization, Mahabaleshwar provides you with the most pristine experience of nature and tranquility at its best.

 

Mahabaleshwar's scenic beauty is unparalleled near Mumbai

Mahabaleshwar is indeed one of the most perfect family getaways near Mumbai to escape the mundane routines and the hustle and bustle of the city. This beautiful hill station has various lookout points where you can capture scenic views of the majestic mountains, mesmerising valleys, and serene lakes. You can also capture captivating sunrises and sunsets. 

Mahabaleshwar Fort, near Mumbai, is a favorite spot for kids and families

Apart from the biodiversity and rich flora, Mahabaleshwar has a historical and archaeological significance because of the ancient Mahabaleshwar Temple, believed to be 4000 years old. There are also other tourist locations and activities for all age groups to keep the visitors engaged throughout their trip. Do not forget to enjoy a horse ride and a boat tour near the lake. 

Top Weekend Getaway near Mumbai - Panchghani

On your way back home, you can take a pit stop at Panchgani and visit the tabletop. Panchgani offers a one-of-a-kind experience, especially during monsoons. You can learn more about Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani on my channel page. Here is a quick link for your reference. 

Video Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNzqzGHPiOs

Thane Creek

Another amazing, not-to-miss destination near Thane is the Thane Creek. Named after the Flamingoes, who are the primary visitors of the creek coming from distant corners of the country, the Thane Bird Sanctuary, or the Thane Creek Flamingo Sanctuary, provides the perfect spot for witnessing over 160 bird species in their natural abode. 

Also, the juxtaposition between Vashi and Airoli Bridge provides easy access to the site from the city. The Thane Creek Bridge, also known as the Vashi Bridge, connects Mankhrud in Mumbai to Vashi in Navi Mumbai, making the creek easily accessible to visitors. 

The best time to visit Thane Creek is during winter, from November to April. To witness the migratory birds up close, you can book a boat ride by visiting the Coastal Marine Biodiversity Centre located in Airoli, Navi Mumbai. You can find more information about the bookings and bird species on the official website of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). 

You can also visit the Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Center Museum, where young children will be amused watching the interactive mode of learning new facts about conservation and migratory birds. Further, encircled by lush green forests and dense vegetation, Thane Creek Sanctuary is a treat for the eye, witnessing winter migrants, like ducks, gulls, flamingoes, and other shorebirds. 

So, when you plan your travel with kids from Mumbai for a weekend getaway, don't miss these tourist spots!

Bio of author Pallavi

I am a writer, content creator, and a mother of two. I often find it fascinating to indulge in creative pursuits, like writing and crafting. Art and Craft work for me as a therapy. I also have a YouTube channel where I share my DIY crafts, travel logs, and other video content. I have been to Mumbai for about a year, and the journey has been unforgettable. In this article, I share some of my favourite getaways near Mumbai. You can check out my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/ASliceofLifewithPallavi

Do and Don’ts during Dengue

For doctors, treating dengue patients is not an easy task, but nonprofessionals often think of every possible way to treat the disease. Most commonly, people think that antibiotics can treat dengue, as they do most infections. Many people also feel that dengue is a contagious disease that can be easily transmitted from one person to another. Moreover, some think that they can be vaccinated against dengue. That is why it is important to know dos and don'ts during dengue.

Therefore, here is a list to help you know what to do and what not to do regarding Dengue Fever. But before that, check out crucial facts on Dengue fever too.

                                     

                

Dengue Fever: A Big Challenge for Our World 🌎

Dengue is a viral infection that is spreading quickly, and it's a big problem for people living in tropical and subtropical countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) tells us that more than half of the world's population is now at risk. Over the last few years, there have been a huge number of cases, which show how important it is to know about this illness.

The virus is carried by a special type of mosquito called the Aedes aegypti mosquito. These mosquitoes like to bite during the day and they love to live in cities and towns. They especially breed in clean, still water that collects in places like buckets, flower pots, and old tires.

Dengue is very common in over 100 countries, and some of the most affected places are in Southeast Asia, South America, and even India. Places like Brazil, Peru, and Argentina have seen a lot of cases recently. 

In India, many states like Delhi, Kerala, and West Bengal also face a lot of dengue cases, especially during and after the rainy season. This is why knowing dengue fever prevention tips is so important for families everywhere.

What to Do in Dengue Fever

                                   

ü  The first thing you need to do is visit a doctor immediately if dengue is suspected.

ü  Cases related to Dengue fever/Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever should be observed separately, as they need extra attention from a doctor.

ü  If you think the high fever can be the result of dengue, try to keep the body temperature lower than 39 °C.

ü  Give paracetamol to the patient suffering from a high fever, but not more than four times in a day.

ü  Determine the blood platelet count and hematocrit count in the patient's body through regular tests, as a drop in platelets and a rise in haematocrits are important for an early diagnosis of Dengue Fever.

ü  Platelet transfusion is advised if platelets fall consecutively, but as per the doctor's advice and your medical history. Continuous monitoring of the health of the patient is of utmost importance.

ü  It is essential to give a large amount of fluids like juice, milk, water, and soup to dengue patients along with their normal diet.

ü  Keep your surroundings clean and hygienic.

                             Related Post - How to Protect Kids from Dengue?

What not to do in Dengue Fever

ü  Never give antibiotics to dengue patients.

ü  Never give Brufen or Aspirin to a patient suffering from a high fever.

ü  Avoid use of steroids. They do not provide any benefit in the treatment of dengue fever.

FAQs About Dengue

Can a person get dengue more than once? 

     Yes, a person can get dengue more than once because there are four different types of the dengue virus. Getting one type doesn't protect you from the others.

How can we protect our families from dengue in India? 

      

     In India, you should use mosquito nets, wear long-sleeved clothes, and use mosquito repellents. Also, be sure to empty and clean any water containers in and around your home every week to prevent mosquitoes from breeding.

Is there a vaccine for dengue? 

    Yes, there is a dengue vaccine available in some places. However, it is mostly for people who have already had a dengue infection and lived in areas where the disease is common. Always talk to a doctor about whether the vaccine is right for you.

What is the most common symptom of dengue? 

     The most common symptoms of dengue are a sudden high fever, a very bad headache, and severe body aches, which is why it's also called "breakbone fever." You may also see a skin rash and feel very tired.

References -

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue

https://ncvbdc.mohfw.gov.in/

Krishna Janamashtmi with Kids - Activities and Recipes

Krishna Janmashtami marks the birth of Lord Krishna. The day is celebrated with lots of festivities, zeal, and fervor in India. He is the favorite deity of kids, too, as his funny activities called 'leela' are adored by both adults and kids. How are you planning to celebrate Krishna Janamashtmi with kids this year?
                                                 

Krishna Janamashtmi with kids is the best festival.

Things and Activities to Do on Krishna Janamashtmi with Kids

1. Celebrate the birthday of Lord Krishna with kids and indulge in a delicious feast on this day.  Families prepare a lavish feast consisting of the favorite foods of Lord Krishna and offer Him first before feeding the family. You may engage kids in preparing these delicacies and have a good time.

2. Going to temples with family on this day is full of fun as the whole atmosphere is filled with celebrations and gaiety. Not to forget, the statues of Radha and Krishna are beautifully adorned with ornaments and flowers, and temples are decorated with lights.  However, maintain a proper distance and good hygiene all the time.                                              

3. In addition, it is a pleasure to watch TV channels telecasting the celebrations of Janamashtmi in various parts of India, such as in the birth city of the lord, that is Mathura. It develops the interest of kids in this festival and reminds them that good always wins over evil forces.

4. While celebrating the festival at home, decorate your house, create a special place to replicate the city of Mathura, and dress up your kiddo as Krishna or Radha. Click pictures, share with friends, and enjoy with family virtually.

5. Decorate your temple at home with flower garlands, leaves, and ribbons. Create a decorated swing to place your small Krishna idol in it. You may place a decorated 'dahi handi' in the room as your gesture of love for the lord.


                            Related post- Ideas for Eco-friendly Decorations with Kids


6. You may narrate stories of Krishna to your kids, read about him online, and share your childhood experiences of this festival.

7. While enjoying with toddlers and young kids. provide them with art sheets to fill beautiful colors in the pictures of Krishna and enjoy this day.

8. Create a "Digital Jhanki" or "Krishna-verse." Instead of a physical diorama, build a virtual temple scene using a creative app or a sandbox video game. This allows for endless customization and can be a collaborative project, where kids use their digital skills to build and decorate a festive, animated scene for Lord Krishna.

9. Host a Janmashtami-themed "Binge & Bhajans" night. Gather the family for a movie marathon of shows or films about Lord Krishna, followed by a sing-along session of devotional songs. Animated movies/shows such as Krishna aur Kans, Krishna Makhan Chor, Bal Krishna and The Little Krishna - The Legendary Warrior are Kids' favorites.

You can find modern, upbeat versions of bhajans on YouTube and Spotify, making the experience both soulful and trendy for everyone to enjoy together. 

10. Organize a "Dahi Handi" scavenger hunt with a twist. Hide small "dahi handi" pots filled with goodies and clues around the house or garden. Each clue can lead to a fun fact about Lord Krishna's life, and the final prize could be a personalized treat, blending the traditional game with a modern treasure hunt format.

Hope you enjoyed the above ideas for celebrating Krishna Janmashtami with kids.

Janmashtami Recipes for Kids and Families

Is there any Indian festival without special recipes and desserts? No, not at all.

Check out these special Indian recipes from different states of the country and relish them with your children on Janamashtmi this time.

Makhana Kheer

Prepare Makhna kheer recipe for kids on Janamashtmi this year!

This delightful and healthy dessert is a must-make for a Janmashtami feast. To prepare, roast fox nuts (makhana) in ghee until crispy, then crush them. 

Boil milk and add the crushed makhana, along with sugar and saffron for a rich flavor. 

Simmer until the kheer thickens, then garnish with a mix of chopped dry fruits. This creamy, nutritious kheer is perfect for everyone, and it's a great Krishna Janmashtami recipe that's easy to make.

Sabudana Khichdi

A popular choice for fasting, this savory dish is light and satisfying. First, soak sabudana (tapioca pearls) until they are soft and fluffy. 

Sauté cumin seeds, green chilies, and curry leaves in ghee, and then add boiled potatoes and roasted peanuts. 

Mix in the soaked sabudana along with rock salt, and cook until the pearls become translucent. This fragrant and simple vrat ka khana is a delicious and traditional way to celebrate.

Gopalkala

Originating from Maharashtra, Gopalkala is a unique and wholesome prasad made from beaten rice (poha). It is an excellent no-cook recipe that kids can help prepare. 

Simply mix poha with yogurt, grated cucumber, and coconut, and then add a tempering of cumin seeds and green chilies fried in ghee. 

This quick and easy Janmashtami special food is a refreshing and nutritious offering, symbolizing Krishna's love for simple, rustic fare.

Dhaniya Panjiri

This is a nutritious and fragrant sweet offered as a prasad to Lord Krishna. Made with coriander powder, ghee, and an assortment of nuts, it's a staple in many North Indian households. 

To make it, roast coriander powder in ghee until it turns golden and aromatic. Then, add chopped dry fruits like cashews, almonds, and raisins. 

Let it cool slightly, then mix in powdered sugar and cardamom. This simple, yet wholesome dish is not only delicious but is also believed to be a favorite of the deity.

Makhan Mishri

Makhan Mishri, a combination of fresh white butter (makhan) and rock sugar (mishri), is one of the simplest and most iconic offerings for Lord Krishna. It is said to be his absolute favorite. 

To prepare it, churn fresh cream until the butter separates. Once the butter is ready, rinse it in cold water and gently mix it with rock sugar crystals. 

The simplicity of this dish is its charm, symbolizing the purity of devotion. Serve it in a small earthen pot to truly capture the essence of Krishna's childhood antics as the "Makhan Chor.

Enjoy this festival, Krishna Janamashtmi with kids with lots of love, zest, and yummy recipes too!

Happy Janamashtmi to all of you!

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