Category: Autism

The Hidden Danger in Your Child’s Breakfast

If you’re a parent, your morning probably feels like a race — packing tiffins, managing work calls, and getting your little one dressed and fed before 9 a.m., in my case, it’s 6.30 am. In all that chaos, convenience often becomes a lifeline.

So we reach for what looks easy and promising — that colourful cereal box, a biscuit packet, a “health drink” that claims to make kids stronger and taller, or a fruit juice that says “no added sugar.”

But as a doctor and a fellow parent, I want to pause with you today and ask: Are these ready-made options nourishing your child, or are we just falling for smart packaging?

What Recent Research Tells Us

Let’s start with cereals, which are a popular choice for children. A study from the United States reviewed 1,200 new children’s cereals launched between 2010 and 2023. What they found was concerning:

  • Fat content increased by over 30 percent
  • Salt (sodium) increased by over 30 percent.
  • Sugar levels went up.
  • Meanwhile, fiber and protein, two nutrients children truly need, decreased

While this study was conducted in the U.S., the patterns hold in India too. Many Indian cereal brands follow the same formulation or are direct imports.

But It’s Not Just Cereals

In my clinic, I see that the average Indian child’s breakfast or snack routine often includes  a combination of:

  • Ready-to-eat cereals
  • Health drinks (like those added to milk)
  • Biscuits or cookies (often labelled “whole wheat” or “high fiber”)
  • Flavoured yoghurts
  • Packaged juices or milkshakes

Parents choose these because they feel safer, more nutritious, and easier to prepare. But when we look at the labels, here’s what we find:

What I See on Indian Food Labels

Let me share some real figures I’ve gathered from reading labels of popular products:

  • Cereals: 8 to 12 grams of sugar per serving, barely 1–2 grams of protein or fiber
  • Health drinks: Often 15 to 20 grams of sugar per serving (that’s about 4 to 5 teaspoons)
  • Biscuits: Marketed as “healthy,” but still packed with refined flour, palm oil, and added sugar
  • Juices or milkshakes: Even the “no added sugar” varieties may have natural sugar content equivalent to soft drinks

These numbers matter because, according to the Indian Academy of Pediatrics and ICMR, a child’s daily added sugar should not exceed 5 to 6 teaspoons (20 to 25 grams). A breakfast of cereal, a biscuit, and a health drink can easily cross this limit before your child even leaves for school.

Why This Is a Bigger Concern Than It Seems

I don’t want to scare you, but I do want to show you what I see:

  • Children are coming in with complaints of fatigue, mood swings, and poor concentration
  • Unexplained weight gain or digestive issues in children as young as 5
  • Blood tests showing borderline cholesterol or early insulin resistance
  • And worst of all, a generation growing up on sugar without even realising it

The food industry is clever — they use words like “fortified,” “energy,” “growth,” and “natural” to win your trust. But as a doctor, I always say: flip the pack and read the back. The truth is in the label.

So What Can We Do?

Here’s what I tell young parents in my clinic:

  1. Stop trusting front-label claims. “No maida,” “Made with milk,” “High protein” — these are often marketing tricks. Check the actual nutritional chart.
  2. Limit added sugar, especially in breakfast and snacks. Avoid cereals and drinks with more than 6 grams of sugar per serving.
  3. Rethink ‘health drinks’. If your child eats a balanced diet, they don’t need chocolate-flavoured powders. Simple milk, nuts, fruit, and home-cooked meals do a better job.
  4. Use biscuits as a rare treat, not a daily snack.
  5. Return to our roots. Our traditional Indian breakfasts are full of fiber, complex carbs, and natural protein, and cost a fraction of these packaged foods.

Here’s what I recommend to working parents who ask for something quick and realistic:

  • Poha with vegetables
  • Moong dal or besan chilla
  • Dalia with jaggery and dry fruits
  • Idlis with sambar
  • Roti roll with paneer or aloo sabzi
  • Whole wheat toast with nut butter and banana slices

These may not come in glossy boxes, but they build real health, not just hype.

My Final Thought

I know we all want the best for our children. And I know that sometimes, it feels like you don’t have time to cook or plan every meal perfectly. But let me remind you — you don’t have to be perfect. Just be aware.
Start small. Maybe swap the cereal three days a week. Or keep biscuits out of the snack box and replace them with fruit or nuts.

A few mindful steps today can protect your child from years of health struggles later.

Want a Ready-to-Use Weekly Breakfast Plan?
If you found this helpful and would like a simple, quick, and nutritious 7-day breakfast chart for your child, designed by me to fit into real Indian mornings, you can download it here. It’s packed with tasty ideas your child will love and your routine will welcome.

Click here to download Dr. Rajeshwari’s 7-Day Healthy Breakfast Plan

With warmth and care,
Dr. Rajeshwari Yadav

 

A Doctor’s Guide to Early Signs of Autism, ADHD & Learning Issues in Indian Kids

Apna bachpan yaad hai? Hamare parents ne kai baar bola hoga — “Bachpan mein sabhi aise hote hain, theek ho jaayega.” And honestly, unki baat mein pyaar toh tha, lekin aaj ke zamane mein sirf pyaar kaafi nahi hai — clarity bhi zaroori hai.

This question, “Is it just a phase?”, is one of the most common and important doubts I hear from parents. And if you’ve been wondering the same about your child, aap akelay nahi ho.

Let’s break it down together — one step at a time. Scientifically. Compassionately. No jargon. Just a real conversation that might bring you clarity and peace

Sabhi bachhe alag hote hain — True or just comfort talk?

Yes — it’s true that every child develops at their own pace. Some walk at 10 months, some at 15. Some speak by 1.5 years, others by 2. But there’s a range of normal. Science calls these developmental milestones — important markers to help us catch when a child might need extra support.

For example, if your child is:

    • Not making eye contact
    • Doesn’t respond to name by 12 months
    • Is not pointing or waving by 15 months
    • Hasn’t spoken meaningful words by 18–24 months
    • Repeats phrases but doesn’t use them to communicate
    • Can’t sit still for even a few minutes
    • Lines up toys, flaps hands, or avoids interaction

Yeh sirf “alag” hona nahi hai — yeh developmental red flags ho sakte hain. Not labels, not judgments — just signals. Aur jitni jaldi hum in par kaam karein, utna accha outcome hota hai.

It’s Not Just Behavior — It’s Brain Wiring

Neurodevelopmental disorders — like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Learning Disabilities (LD) — parenting se nahi hote. Inka base hota hai brain wiring, genetics, sometimes early birth-related complications or environmental influences.

Indian parents often hear or think:

  • “Ladka hai, isliye late bol raha hai.”
  • “Ghar mein sab late bolte hain.”
  • “Shayad TV zyada dekh liya.”
  • “Main working mom hoon, meri wajah se toh nahi?”

Please remember: Blame doesn’t help. Awareness does. Yeh kisi ka fault nahi hai — but knowing early helps us give the child the right tools to thrive.

Why Waiting Can Hurt

Kai baar relatives ya even doctors bolte hain, “Waqt ke saath theek ho jaata hai.”

But science tells us something else. The brain is most adaptable — neuroplastic — in the first 5–6 years of life. After that, it’s like clay that begins to harden.

Studies show that children who receive support before the age of 3 show significantly better long-term outcomes in language, attention, behavior, and social development.

But what if I’m overthinking?

That’s a genuine fear many parents share — “Kahi main overreact toh nahi kar rahi?”

Think of it this way — agar aapke bacche ko blurred vision ho, aap uska eyesight test karwaate ho na? Evaluation means clarity. If everything’s fine, you get peace. If there’s a concern, you get time to act.

How Can Homeopathy Help — Scientifically?

Once we know what we’re dealing with, the next step is support.

This is where integrative care, including homeopathy, comes in. Now, I want to be very clear — homeopathy is not a replacement for therapies like speech, occupational therapy, or special education. But what it does offer is internal support to the child’s nervous system.

Homeopathic medicines are selected based on the child’s complete symptom picture — not just the diagnosis, but the child’s unique personality, fears, sleep, digestion, and emotional responses.

Emerging research shows that:

  • Homeopathy can help regulate sensory processing, especially in hypersensitive children.
  • It may help in improving sleep, anxiety, attention span, and emotional control — all crucial for learning.
  • Children receiving homeopathic care alongside therapies often show faster emotional settling and better engagement in sessions.

The goal is not to “cure” the child — the goal is to support their nervous system, reduce stress responses, improve adaptability, and gently assist development from the inside out.

Most importantly, homeopathy is safe, gentle, and non-toxic, making it ideal for growing brains and bodies.

What You Can Do Today

Start observing and noting patterns in your child over a few weeks.

Consult a developmental expert, not just a general pediatrician.

Don’t delay screening — tools like M-CHAT or Conners Scale are simple and available in many clinics.

Consider integrative support, including homeopathy, alongside therapy.

Trust yourself. You know your child best.

From Confusion to Clarity

I’ve seen non-verbal 3-year-olds become confident communicators.

I’ve seen children once lost in their own world slowly but surely begin to respond, connect, and even shine.

Kya yeh overnight hua? Nahi. Yeh hua because parents didn’t ignore their doubts — they acted on them.

So if you’re asking yourself, “Is this just a phase?” — it’s time to trust that instinct. Because early action is not fear — it’s faith in your child’s potential.

Let’s make decisions not out of panic, but out of informed compassion.

 

Mumma, Papa… Why Isn’t He Talking Yet?

If you’re reading this, chances are… you’re concerned about your child.

Maybe your toddler isn’t talking like other children their age.
Maybe they avoid eye contact, don’t respond when you call their name, or spend hours lining up toys instead of playing pretend.
Maybe you’ve heard someone say, “It’s just a phase,” but your gut says otherwise.

As a parent, your instinct is powerful. And you’re right to listen to it.

At Caitanya, I’ve met countless mothers and fathers who noticed something early on — even if they couldn’t quite put it into words. What matters is: you noticed. That’s the beginning of everything.

So, what could these early signs mean?
Could it be a temporary delay — or is it pointing to something deeper?

Let’s understand one of the possibilities that many parents today are navigating with strength, awareness, and love — Autism Spectrum Disorder.

What Is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means it affects how a child’s brain grows and understands the world.

It’s not a disease, not something “caught,” and certainly not the parent’s fault.
It’s a difference in brain wiring — in how your child learns, plays, feels, and interacts.
And it can influence more than just speech or behavior. Many children with autism may also experience differences in:

  • Communication – speaking, using gestures, or understanding others
  • Social interaction – forming relationships or playing with peers
  • Sensory processing – how they respond to sounds, touch, smells, light
  • Emotional regulation – managing excitement, frustration, or routine changes
  • Physical health – sleep disturbances, digestive issues, food intolerances

Importantly, autism exists on a spectrum — every child presents differently.

 Early Signs Parents Should Watch For

You, as a parent, are often the first to observe something “different.” These signs can appear as early as infancy, or may become noticeable by 18–24 months.

 Baby and Toddler Signs

  • Doesn’t respond to name being called
  • Avoids eye contact
  • Doesn’t smile back or react to peekaboo
  • Rarely gestures (waving, pointing, showing objects)
  • Doesn’t babble, coo, or attempt early speech sounds
  • Doesn’t reach out to be picked up

 Social and Play Behaviors

  • Prefers to play alone; avoids peers
  • Doesn’t imitate actions (clapping, playing house, etc.)
  • Lines up toys or spins objects
  • Doesn’t show shared enjoyment (like pointing to something exciting)
  • May seem unaware of others’ emotions or expressions

 Sensory & Physical Cues

  • Overreacts to common sounds (pressure cooker, mixer)
  • Sensitive to clothes tags, water temperature, or bright lights
  • Repeats unusual behaviors like spinning, hand-flapping, or toe-walking
  • May chew on non-food items or repeat specific sounds
  • Either extremely active or unusually quiet

 Let’s Clear Some Myths

In Indian households, we often hear:

  • “Boys talk late, don’t worry.”
  • “He’s just naughty, not autistic.”
  • “She doesn’t speak because no one else talks to her at home.”

While these comments come from a good place, they can delay timely support.

Autism isn’t caused by parenting style, screen time, or vaccines.
It’s a biological-neurological condition — not a character flaw or a bad habit.

The earlier we identify it, the better the outcome.

 Why Early Intervention Matters

The first few years of life are when the brain is most adaptable — this is called neuroplasticity. During this time, the right support can help your child:

  • Build social understanding
  • Develop communication skills (verbal or non-verbal)
  • Learn daily routines and self-care
  • Reduce overwhelming behaviors
  • Strengthen emotional connection and bonding

We’ve seen beautiful transformations:
Children who once had no words begin to speak in full sentences.
Children who couldn’t bear touch now enjoy hugs and closeness.
Families once lost in confusion now feel hopeful, connected, and empowered.

 What’s Next?

If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, don’t panic.
But don’t wait either.

Every child develops differently — yes — but certain milestones are important signals. If your child seems to be missing multiple early milestones, it’s time to evaluate further.

A proper diagnosis doesn’t put a label on your child. It opens the door to support, therapy, and real change.

Our Approach at Caitanya Healing by Homeopathy

At Caitanya, we offer a specialized, system-based approach to support children with autism.

We combine:

  • Classical homeopathic treatment tailored to your child’s constitution
  • Evidence-based therapies to enhance sensory processing and focus
  • Parental coaching for home routines and behavior strategies
  • Nutritional guidance to support gut-brain health
  • And most importantly, compassionate, personalized care

Concerned About Autism? Let’s Evaluate, Not Assume.

If you’re unsure whether your child is showing signs of autism or simply facing a temporary delay, early assessment is key.

 Book a free one-on-one consultation with Dr. Rajeshwari:
👉 https://calendly.com/doctorsconsultation/free-one-to-one-consulting-dr-rajeshwari

We offer evidence-based guidance, developmental screening, and a clear path forward — without fear, stigma, or guesswork.

Early action isn’t about labeling — it’s about timely support and better outcomes.
Let’s take that step, together.

Speech Delay in Children: How Homeopathy Can Help

Is Your Child Facing Speech Delay? Let’s Talk About It

As a parent, it can be worrying if your child isn’t talking as expected. Maybe they’re not saying words yet, or they struggle to put sentences together. You might be wondering—why is this happening? What can you do to help? Let’s break it down in simple terms and explore how homeopathy can play a role in supporting your child’s speech development.

Prevalence of Speech Delay in India

Recent studies in India have reported varying prevalence rates of speech and language delays among children:-

  • A study conducted in North India found a prevalence of 6.2% among children .
  • Another study reported a prevalence of 7% in children aged 0-3 years .​
  • Research from South India indicated a prevalence of 13.7% in children up to six years of age .

What is Speech and Language Delay?

Speech and language delay happens when a child doesn’t start talking or understanding words at the expected age. It’s more common than you might think, affecting about 5-10% of preschool-aged children.

  • Speech is about making sounds and words clearly.
  • Language is about understanding and using words to communicate.

Some children may have difficulty with one or both, which can lead to frustration—for both them and you.

Why is My Child Facing a Speech Delay?

There isn’t just one reason. Many factors can influence speech development, such as:

  • Hearing problems: If your child struggles to hear clearly, learning to talk becomes harder.
  • Developmental delays: Some conditions, like autism or ADHD, can slow speech development.
  • Neurological conditions: The brain and nervous system play a big role in speech. Any delays in these areas can affect communication.
  • Muscle coordination issues: Speaking requires precise control of the lips, tongue, and jaw. Weakness or poor coordination can make speech difficult.
  • Limited social interaction: If a child doesn’t hear enough spoken language or isn’t encouraged to express themselves, their speech development may be slower.

How Can You Tell if Your Child Has a Speech Delay?

Every child develops at their own pace, but here are some common signs to watch for:

  • By 12 months: Not babbling or making simple sounds.
  • By 18 months: Not saying single words like “mama” or “dada.”
  • By 2 years: Not combining two words like “want toy.”
  • Difficulty understanding you or following simple instructions.
  • Struggling to express needs or getting frustrated when trying to communicate.
  • Unclear pronunciation that makes it hard for others to understand them.

If any of these sound familiar, don’t panic—there are ways to help!

What Can You Do to Help Your Child?

The good news is that speech delays can often be improved with the right approach. Some important steps include:

  • Encouraging conversation: Talk to your child often, even if they’re not talking back yet.
  • Reading together: This helps build vocabulary and understanding.
  • Play-based learning: Playing with toys, singing songs, and engaging in interactive games all support language development.
  • Speech therapy: A professional speech therapist can help guide your child’s speech growth.
  • Providing a supportive environment: Be patient and give your child plenty of opportunities to express themselves.

How Can Homeopathy Help?

Many parents turn to homeopathy as a natural way to support their child’s speech development. Homeopathy doesn’t just focus on the symptoms—it looks at the child as a whole, including their emotional well-being, behavior, and neurological development.

Here’s How Homeopathy Works:

  • Supports Brain and Nerve Function: Homeopathy works to balance the nervous system, helping the brain process speech more effectively.
  • Improves Muscle Coordination: Speech requires control of the tongue, lips, and jaw. Homeopathy can help improve muscle tone and coordination, making it easier for your child to form words.
  • Helps in Developmental Delays: If speech delay is linked to conditions like autism or ADHD, homeopathy supports overall cognitive and emotional development.
  • Reduces Anxiety and Frustration: Speech delays can be frustrating for children, leading to behavioral challenges. Homeopathy helps children feel calmer and more confident in expressing themselves.
  • Stimulates Natural Development: Instead of forcing speech, homeopathy gently encourages the body to develop speech skills at its own pace.

A Holistic Approach to Speech Development

No single solution works for every child, but combining homeopathy with speech therapy, a language-rich environment, and emotional support can make a real difference. Every child’s journey is unique, and progress may take time—but with the right approach, improvements can be seen.

Final Thoughts

If your child is facing speech delays, you’re not alone. Early intervention, a nurturing environment, and natural approaches like homeopathy can help them find their voice. If you’re considering homeopathy, consult with a qualified homeopath to find the best support for your child’s needs.

Remember, every child learns at their own pace. With patience, encouragement, and the right help, your child can develop strong communication skills and thrive.

 

Understanding Why Autism Occurs: A Conversation from My Heart to Yours

Let’s start with a story. Imagine a parent, sitting in my clinic, their eyes filled with worry and guilt. They’re trying to find answers, to understand what they might have done wrong. “Doctor, did I cause this? Could I have done something differently?” These are questions I hear often. If you’re here reading this, you might be wondering the same thing. Let’s walk through this journey together, step by step.

Autism—A Multifaceted Puzzle

Autism is like a grand puzzle—one with many interlocking pieces. Science has come a long way in understanding these pieces, but there’s still much to uncover. What we do know is that autism doesn’t have a single cause. Instead, it’s the result of a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and developmental factors.

  1. Genetic Factors: A Family Thread

You might have heard that autism runs in families. That’s true to an extent. Research shows that certain genes increase the likelihood of autism. However, it’s not about a single ‘bad gene.’ It’s like a symphony of multiple genes working together in ways we’re still learning to understand.

For example, conditions like Fragile X Syndrome or Rett Syndrome are linked to genetic changes and sometimes include autism-like traits. Even identical twins don’t always both have autism, which means that genes are only part of the story. The environment also plays a role.

  1. Environmental Factors: What Surrounds Us Matters

During pregnancy, a mother’s health and surroundings can influence a baby’s development. Infections, certain medications, toxins like pesticides, or even complications during childbirth may subtly affect the brain’s wiring. These aren’t things anyone can predict or control entirely, so please, do not blame yourself.

  1. Brain Development: A Unique Wiring

Imagine a child’s brain as a beautiful, intricate web of connections. In autism, some of these connections may form differently, especially in areas handling communication, social interaction, or sensory processing. This doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with the brain—it’s just wired in a unique way.

  1. Immune System and Other Factors

Emerging research suggests that the immune system might also play a role. Inflammation during pregnancy or unusual immune responses could potentially influence brain development. Additionally, factors like advanced parental age or maternal stress have been studied for their connection to autism.

The Role of Vaccines: Let’s Address the Elephant in the Room

I know some of you might have heard about a possible link between vaccines and autism, particularly the MMR vaccine. Let me be clear: extensive research has consistently shown no credible evidence connecting vaccines to autism. While there have been observational studies suggesting a possible role of vaccination in regressive autism—where a child seems to develop normally until around 16-18 months before showing autistic traits. If you have concerns or doubts, please don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. We’re here to provide you with accurate, evidence-based information and support.

Is This My Fault? Absolutely Not!

Let me say this as clearly as I can: you did not cause your child’s autism. As parents, we naturally look for answers, but the truth is, autism arises from factors largely beyond anyone’s control. Life’s circumstances, our environment, and our genetic makeup are not things we can ‘fix’ or change. You’ve done nothing wrong.

Why Doesn’t Autism Affect Every Child?

If these factors are universal, why doesn’t every child develop autism? The answer lies in genetic susceptibility. Some children may have a genetic predisposition, while others are less affected by the same environmental factors. Think of it like seeds planted in different types of soil. The soil—or the environment—affects how the seed grows.

Finding Your Path Forward

Now that we’ve explored these layers, let’s shift focus. Your child’s autism is not your fault, but your response to it can shape their journey. Early intervention, therapy, and a supportive environment can make a world of difference. Focus on what you can control—loving your child, celebrating their unique strengths, and seeking help when needed.

Together, We’re Stronger

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone. Many parents have walked this path, and there’s a community of professionals and families ready to support you. Autism may be a puzzle, but together, we can help piece it together.

Remember, the most important thing your child needs is your love and understanding. And that’s something you’ve already given in abundance.

At Caitanya Clinic, we understand that navigating autism can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’ve designed a comprehensive approach tailored to support children with autism and their families. From homeopathic treatments that address root causes to personalized guidance on lifestyle, therapy, and holistic care, we’re here to help every step of the way.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert care to make a difference in your child’s journey, reach out to us. Call us today at the clinic to schedule a consultation. Together, let’s build a brighter future for your child.

With care and compassion,

Dr. Rajeshwari Yadav

 

 

Is Your Child Struggling to Grasp the Value of Money?

As parents of children with special needs, one of the most critical life skills we can teach them is understanding the value of money. It’s easy to assume that lessons about rupees, coins, and prices are covered in school, but for many children with developmental challenges, such as those on the autism spectrum, grasping the practical value of money often requires more personalized and hands-on learning.

But how can we take this seemingly abstract concept and turn it into something meaningful for such children? Let’s dive into how we can make the lessons of earning, spending, and saving money real and empowering for them.

Starting with a Simple Concept: “Does Money Grow on Trees?”

Let’s start with a fun question for your child: Does money grow on trees? This can be a fantastic way to open up a conversation about where money really comes from. In our culture, there’s a phrase that’s often used, “Paise ped par nahi ugte” (Money doesn’t grow on trees), which drives home the point that money is earned.

Here’s a simple exercise: Take your child to a plant nursery and ask them to find a tree that grows money. When they give you a confused look, you can explain, “Just like plants need time and effort to grow, money comes from hard work.” This can then lead to a discussion about how you (as their parents) go to work, just like they go to school, and that’s how you earn money to buy the things you need.

It’s important to explain this in the context of their daily lives. For example, you can tell them, “We earn money to buy your books for school, your favorite snacks, and the clothes we wear.” This simple analogy helps them connect the idea of work to money in a way they can understand.

Teaching Through Action: Earning Money with Chores

Now that your child understands that money comes from work, it’s time to make this concept more hands-on. One of the best ways to help your child understand the value of money is to set up a simple system of household chores where they can earn small amounts of money.

For example:

  • ₹10 for watering the plants
  • ₹20 for helping set the dinner table
  • ₹50 for cleaning their room

By associating tasks with specific amounts of money, your child will begin to understand that not all jobs are the same—some take more effort and are therefore rewarded with more money. This system also helps them learn that money has to be earned through responsibility, time, and hard work.

You can even set up a small “bank” at home, where they can deposit their earnings in a box or jar. Encourage them to keep track of their “earnings” in a notebook, which will reinforce their understanding of savings and the rewards of being patient.

Needs vs. Wants: Prioritizing Purchases

Once your child begins earning money, it’s important to help them differentiate between needs and wants. This distinction is crucial to building a foundation of financial literacy. You can start by making two lists together:

  • Needs: School supplies, clothes for winter, food
  • Wants: New toys, extra snacks, gadgets

Help your child understand that needs are essential for daily life, while wants are things they would like to have but are not necessary. This is where budgeting comes in. You can give your child an allowance based on the chores they’ve completed, and then guide them in making choices about how to spend that money.

Here’s an idea: Take them to a local market or browse an online store. Ask them to guess how much an item costs and then show them the actual price. This will give them a real-world sense of how money is spent and the importance of budgeting wisely.

Saving for Something Special: The Power of Patience

While your child might be eager to spend their earnings on small things like candies or toys, it’s important to introduce the concept of saving. Explain to them that saving means putting aside some of their earnings to afford something bigger or more valuable later on.

For example, if your child wants a new toy that costs ₹500, help them calculate how many chores they need to complete to save that much money. They might earn ₹50 from cleaning their room, so after 10 chores, they’ll have enough to buy the toy.

This exercise teaches your child two valuable lessons:

  1. Patience: Waiting and working toward a goal
  2. Planning: Making smart decisions about money instead of spending it impulsively

A great way to visualize their progress is to create a chart where they can color in boxes each time they save ₹50, getting closer to their goal of ₹500. Watching their savings grow will motivate them and reinforce the value of working toward a reward.

Teaching Smart Spending: Comparison Shopping

Another critical skill is teaching your child to compare prices. This can be a fun and educational experience. Let’s say your child wants to buy a cricket bat. You can compare prices from two different stores—perhaps one offers the bat for ₹800 and another for ₹750. Show your child how much they can save by choosing the cheaper option.

You can take this further by asking your child to calculate how much they saved, and then show them how they can use the saved amount to buy something else. This teaches them the value of making informed decisions and managing their money wisely.

Final Thoughts: Building Lifelong Skills

As parents of children with special needs, it’s important to approach financial literacy with patience, creativity, and encouragement. Teaching your child the value of money is not just about math or currency; it’s about empowering them to make confident, informed choices as they grow.

These lessons will carry into adulthood, giving them a sense of independence and understanding that they can apply to all areas of life. Helping your child develop good financial habits early on is one of the most empowering gifts you can give them.

Remember, these lessons are not just about rupees and coins; they are about building a strong foundation for their future success and independence.

Together, we can help children thrive.

Warm regards,

Dr. Rajeshwari Yadav
Helping children grow into healthy, happy, and independent individuals

Embracing a Gentle Path: Homeopathy for Gut and Skin Health in Autism

Introduction:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can bring about various challenges like trouble with social interactions and communication. Lately, researchers have been looking into the link between ASD, tummy issues, and heightened sensitivities. Homeopathy, known for its personal touch, is becoming a promising avenue to support children with ASD.

The Gut-Brain Connection:

The “gut-brain axis” is like a two-way street connecting our tummy and brain. For kids with ASD, studies show they might have tummy troubles, hinting at a connection between gut health and ASD.

The intricate relationship between the gut and the brain, often referred to as the “gut-brain axis,” is a fascinating and complex interplay that significantly influences overall health. This communication network operates bidirectionally, meaning that signals travel back and forth between the gut and the brain, impacting various physiological and psychological processes.

In the context of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), researchers have been particularly intrigued by the potential implications of the gut-brain axis. Studies have consistently shown that individuals with ASD often experience gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms or, more colloquially, “tummy troubles.” These symptoms may manifest as issues such as abdominal pain, irregular bowel movements, or digestive discomfort.

The presence of these gastrointestinal symptoms suggests a possible connection between gut health and the manifestation of ASD. The bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain involves intricate pathways, including neural, hormonal, and immunological components. Disruptions or imbalances in these pathways could potentially contribute to both the gastrointestinal symptoms and the characteristic features of ASD.

Understanding and exploring the gut-brain axis in the context of ASD opens up avenues for more targeted and holistic approaches to intervention. It highlights the importance of considering not only the neurological aspects of ASD but also the potential influence of gastrointestinal health on the overall well-being of individuals with ASD. This comprehensive perspective can guide healthcare professionals in developing more tailored and effective strategies to address the diverse challenges associated with ASD.

Leaky Gut and Sensitivities:

Some experts think there’s a link between “leaky gut” (when the gut lining gets a bit too permeable) and ASD symptoms. This might influence sensitivities, like skin problems and sensory issues, through a mix of brain, hormone, and immune factors.

let’s simplify this for a better understanding:

Think of the gut like a barrier, kind of like a protective wall in your child’s tummy. Now, sometimes, this wall can become a bit too permeable, almost like having tiny holes. We call this “leaky gut.” When this happens, things that shouldn’t normally pass through easily can sneak through these tiny holes.

Now, imagine these sneaky things creating a bit of chaos in the body’s team (the brain, hormones, and immune system). This team is usually great at working together, but when the gut is a bit leaky, it can throw things off.

So, what’s the result? This mix-up can sometimes show up in things like skin problems and sensory issues. Picture it as a ripple effect – the leaky gut might send signals that affect how the brain, hormones, and immune factors interact. This can influence how your child reacts to things around them, like certain textures or sounds.

Understanding this link helps us see that by addressing the “leaky gut” and helping the team work together better, we might also see improvements in things like skin and sensory sensitivities. It’s like fixing the wall to create a smoother and more comfortable environment for your child.

Gut Bugs and Homeopathic Help:

Changes in the gut’s tiny organisms, called microbiota, could be linked to ASD. Homeopathy aims to bring balance to the body’s vital force, possibly helping the gut bugs in a good way. Tailored homeopathic remedies can be designed to support each child’s unique needs and address tummy concerns.

Skin Hurdles and Sensory Sensitivities:

Kids with ASD often face sensory challenges, especially with clothes and skin contact. Homeopathy can step in to help with skin issues, considering individual sensitivities and reactions. Natural remedies, gentle and kind, can work alongside other approaches for overall well-being.

Homeopathy’s Personal Touch:

Homeopathy isn’t just about symptoms; it’s about treating the whole person—body, feelings, and thoughts. This way of working aligns perfectly with what each child with ASD needs. Homeopathic practitioners, like myself, look at everything, aiming to get to the root of the challenges.

Meet Dr. Rajeshwari Yadav, a skilled homeopath with almost more than a decade of experience in classical homeopathy. Beyond the basics, she specializes in tailoring unique homeopathic treatments for both children and adults, delving into the complexities of human psychology.

Dr. Rajeshwari earned her degree from Mumbai’s CCMP Medical College, later advancing her skills at the International Academy of Homeopathy in Mumbai and Allen College, England. With a master’s in clinical psychology and significant experience in special child cases at Sion Hospital, she brings a compassionate and well-rounded approach to healthcare.

Her commitment to excellence shines through collaborations with renowned doctors, offering comprehensive services for various health issues. Dr. Rajeshwari’s blend of classical homeopathy and deep psychology knowledge makes her a dedicated and impactful healthcare professional.

Conclusion:

Understanding the link between ASD, gut health, and skin issues can be complex, but homeopathy offers a gentle, personalized approach. As a qualified homeopath with 15 years of experience and additional qualifications in clinical psychology, I’ve had immense experience working with special children. I invite you to consider this path and consult with professionals, like me, who can offer personalized guidance. Bringing a holistic perspective into your child’s care may pave the way for a more tailored approach to meet their unique needs.