When a child frequently suffers from colds, coughs, or fever, parents often worry, assuming the child's immune system is weak and needs a special supplement or medicine to strengthen the body's defenses. However, doctors note that it is quite normal for children under five years old to encounter viral infections six to eight times a year, especially after they start attending kindergarten or school.
Dr. Ravi Malik, CEO of Redix Health Care and senior pediatrician, emphasized that young children come into contact with various viruses through interaction with other people and children, which can lead to frequent illnesses. This does not necessarily mean that the child's immune system is weakened.
With common viral infections, symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and fever may occur. Nevertheless, you should immediately consult a pediatrician if difficulty breathing, dehydration, persistent diarrhea, or rash appears along with the fever. You also should not wait if the child appears very lethargic, refuses to drink, or their condition worsens.
Five behavioral patterns of parents were noted that can negatively affect children's development and behavior. Firstly, this is granting complete freedom in everything: the absence of set times for eating, sleeping, and screen use can lead to a lack of discipline in the child; therefore, age-appropriate rules must be established.
Secondly, comparing children to each other is undesirable, as each child's learning ability is unique; parents should motivate the child to move forward instead of comparing them to others.
Thirdly, parents should not set a bad example; since children learn by observing their parents, one must follow good habits oneself before expecting it from the child.
Fourth is breaking promises; if parents constantly fail to keep their promises, it can undermine the child's trust, so promises should be made thoughtfully and kept.
Finally, shouting or physical punishment; frightening the child or using physical punishment in anger is not the right method; it is much better to explain rules with love.
