Namita Das's Blog, page 67

The Lodger by Valerie Keogh

The Lodger by Valerie Keogh is a gripping psychological thriller that reveals the disturbing secrets of obsession and deception. Leigh, a lonely and unhappy woman, invites Gina, a young and charismatic waitress, to stay with her. Leigh is drawn to Gina’s boldness and zest for life, but when Gina vanishes, Leigh’s world crumbles. She sets out to find her lodger, only to discover shocking secrets that shatter everything she believes about Gina and herself.

This book was thrilling and engaging, with realistic characters and a stunning ending. The author created a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere that made me feel the protagonist’s fear and confusion. The book also tackled themes such as loneliness, identity, manipulation and betrayal in a compelling way. The ending was utterly unpredictable and shocking, revealing the true nature and motives of the characters. However, the book also had some flaws, such as slow pacing, repetitive scenes and insufficient character growth for some secondary roles. Some parts of the story were also predictable and clichéd. The book made me question if Leigh was a reliable narrator or a psychotic killer.

I recommend this book to fans of psychological thrillers looking for a thrilling and engaging read.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

How to Turn Chores into a Game-Changer for Your Kids

Do you want your kids to behave better and be happier? If yes, you should start giving them household tasks early. Research has shown that kids who do chores have better behaviour, academic performance and self-esteem than those who don’t.

This blog post will show how chores can transform your kids’ lives by teaching them valuable skills and habits. In addition, we will share some strategies to help your kids complete their duties without constant reminders or rewards, such as adding some fun, creating a chore chart, and involving them in your tasks.

Why are chores suitable for kids?

Chores are not just a way of keeping your home clean and tidy. They are also a way of helping your kids grow into responsible, respectful and independent adults. Here are some of the benefits of chores for kids:

Responsibility and accountability. Chores help kids learn to care for their belongings and contribute to the family’s well-being. They also learn to follow instructions, manage their time, and prioritize tasks.Respect and empathy. Chores help kids learn to appreciate the efforts of others and cooperate with their siblings and parents. They also learn to respect the environment and avoid waste of resources.Independence and confidence. Chores help kids learn to do things independently and solve problems creatively. They also learn to deal with challenges and failures and overcome them with perseverance.Self-esteem and satisfaction. Chores help kids learn to take pride in their work and achievements. They also learn to value themselves and their abilities.

How to get kids to do chores?

So, how can you get your kids to do chores without nagging or bribing them? Here are some tips:

Start early. Chores will become more natural for your kids if you start them early. You can start with simple tasks like picking up toys, wiping the table or feeding the pet when they are toddlers and gradually increase the complexity and frequency of the duties as they grow older.Be consistent. Set clear expectations and rules for your kids regarding chores and stick to them. Make sure everyone in the family follows the same rules and does their share of chores. Don’t change the tasks or the rewards randomly, or let your kids skip them without consequences.Be positive. Praise your kids for doing their chores well and acknowledge their efforts. Avoid criticizing or scolding them for making mistakes or being slow. Instead, offer constructive feedback and encouragement.Be realistic. Don’t expect your kids to do chores perfectly or quickly. Remember that they are still learning and need your guidance and support. Don’t overload them with too many or too tricky responsibilities that they can’t handle. Adjust the chores according to their age, ability and interest.Use a chore chart. A chore chart can help your kids keep track of their chores and see their progress. You can use stickers or stars to mark off completed tasks and offer rewards or incentives for reaching specific goals.Make it fun. The less you can make chores feel like chores, the more likely your kids are to do them without complaining and have some fun. You can play music, sing songs or make games out of the chores. For example, you can challenge your kids to see who can finish their tasks faster or better.Invite them to join you. Instead of sending your kids away to do their chores, invite them to come over and be close to you while you work. This way, they can learn by watching and occasionally pitching in. They will also feel more connected and valued as part of the family.

The Impact of Chores on Kids’ Future

Marty Rossmann, a retired professor from the University of Minnesota, found that kids who began doing chores when they were 3 or 4 years old had better outcomes in their 20s regarding relationships, education and independence than those who didn’t have assignments or started later in their teens. Another survey by Braun Research found that 82% of adults who did chores as children said it taught them lifelong lessons.

By making chores a part of your kids’ daily life, you are making your home cleaner and happier and preparing your kids for a successful future.

Sources –

https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/parenting-translator/202204/should-you-be-making-your-child-do-choreshttps://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/growing-friendships/201303/chores-and-childrenhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/going-beyond-intelligence/201908/children-chores-and-happy-productivity

Crash Landing in Paradise

Davi was a very unlucky man. He was constantly plagued by bad luck. He was left without a job, a partner, or a place to live. He decided to take a vacation and try to change his fate. He booked a flight to Hawaii, hoping to enjoy the sun and sand. He boarded the plane and found his seat next to a friendly-looking woman. He introduced himself and learned that her name was Luisa. She was also going to Hawaii for a vacation. They chatted for a while, and Davi felt a spark of attraction. Maybe his luck was finally turning around. He decided to ask her out for a drink when they landed.

“Hey, Luisa, do you want to grab a drink with me when we get to Hawaii?” he asked.

“Sure, Davi, that sounds nice,” she smiled.

Davi felt a surge of happiness. He reclined in his chair and shut his eyes. He dreamed of sipping cocktails with Luisa on the beach, watching the sunset. He woke up when he heard a loud bang. He opened his eyes and saw smoke coming from the engine. He glanced at the window and noticed the fire.

“Attention, passengers, this is your captain speaking,” a voice crackled over the intercom. “We have experienced an engine failure and will make an emergency landing. Please stay composed and listen to the crew’s directions.”

Davi felt a wave of panic. He looked at Luisa and saw fear in her eyes.

“Don’t worry, Luisa, we’ll be okay,” he said, trying to sound reassuring.

He grabbed her hand and squeezed it firmly. He hoped that fate would spare them. The plane descended rapidly and approached the ground. Davi braced himself for impact. The plane hit the runway with a thud and skidded along the tarmac. Davi heard metal scraping and tires screeching. He felt the plane tilt and spin out of control. He closed his eyes and prayed. The plane came to a stop, and Davi opened his eyes. He looked around and saw that the cabin was intact. He smelled smoke, but he didn’t catch any fire. He heard cheers and applause from the other passengers. They had survived. He turned to Luisa and saw that she was smiling.

“Davi, we made it!” she exclaimed. She hugged him and kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you for being with me, Davi,” she said.

“Thank you for being with me, Luisa,” he said.

He felt a surge of relief and gratitude. He had escaped his fate. He kissed her back and smiled. Maybe his luck was finally turning around.

How ADHD Affects Boys and Girls Differently: A Guide for Parents and Teachers

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a usual condition that influences brain development that affects children and adolescents. It is characterised by inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and development. ADHD can affect both boys and girls, but there are some gender differences in how it manifests and is diagnosed and treated.

Boys are more likely to get an ADHD diagnosis than girls because they often display more outward behaviours like aggression, defiance and disruptiveness. These behaviours are more noticeable and problematic in school and social settings and may prompt parents and teachers to seek professional help. On the other hand, girls may show more internalising behaviours such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. These behaviours are less visible and may be overlooked or misinterpreted as personality traits or mood swings.

Boys with ADHD may also have more difficulties with executive functions, such as planning, organising, prioritising and self-regulating. These skills are essential for academic success and life management but are often impaired in children with ADHD. Boys may struggle more with completing homework, following instructions, keeping track of time and belongings, and staying focused on tasks. Girls with ADHD may have better verbal and social skills than boys, which may help them compensate for their executive function deficits and mask their symptoms.

Another gender difference in ADHD is the co-occurrence of other mental health conditions. Boys with ADHD have a higher chance of having conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, learning disabilities and substance use disorders. Girls with ADHD can be more likely to have anxiety disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders and self-harm behaviours. These co-existing conditions can complicate the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and may require a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach.

The treatment of ADHD in boys and girls is similar in many aspects. Still, some considerations need to be taken into account. Medication is the most widely used and successful treatment for ADHD. Still, it may have different effects and side effects depending on the gender of the child. Stimulants are the first-line medication for ADHD, but they may cause more appetite suppression, weight loss and growth delay in boys than in girls. Non-stimulants are another option for ADHD medication, but they may cause more sedation, fatigue and mood changes in girls than in boys.

Behavioural therapy is another essential component of ADHD treatment, especially for children with co-existing conditions or who do not respond well to medication. Behavioural therapy involves teaching children skills to cope with their symptoms, improve their self-esteem and social relationships, and reduce their negative behaviours. Parents and teachers can also play a key role in supporting children with ADHD by providing structure, consistency, positive reinforcement and clear expectations.

ADHD is a nuanced and heterogeneous condition affecting both sexes differently. It is essential to recognise the gender differences in ADHD symptoms, diagnosis and treatment and to tailor the intervention to each child’s specific needs. By doing so, we can help children with ADHD reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives.

References –

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-adhd-more-common-in-males-or-femaleshttps://psychcentral.com/adhd/adhd-and-genderhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20385342/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18416665/https://www.researchgate.net/publication/5435322_Gender_differences_in_ADHD_Implications_for_psychosocial_treatments

How to Break the Cycle of Hair Pulling and Skin Picking in Your Child with ADHD

Does your child have a habit of pulling out their hair, picking at their skin, biting their nails, or chewing their lips? Do they also need help paying attention, staying focused, or controlling their impulses? If so, they may have two conditions that often go hand in hand: body-focused repetitive behaviours (BFRBs) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

BFRBs are compulsive habits that involve damaging one’s own body. They can cause pain, infection, scarring, baldness, or other problems. ADHD is a condition that affects the ability to concentrate, follow directions, plan, or manage emotions. It can cause difficulties in school, work, or social situations.

Having both BFRB and ADHD can be very challenging for your child and you as a parent. You may feel worried, frustrated, or helpless. You may wonder why your child does these things and how you can stop them.

But don’t despair. There is hope and help for your child and you. In this blog post, we will share with you some possible reasons why your child has BFRB and ADHD, some of the ways these conditions can affect their life, and some of the things you can do to support them and help them overcome these habits.

Why does your child have BFRB and ADHD?

A simple answer to this question does not exist. Many factors influence BFRB and ADHD, which are complex conditions. Some of these factors include:

Brain differences: Your child’s brain may have different wiring from other people’s brains. They may have differences in the parts of the brain that control reward, emotion regulation, impulse control, and habit formation. These differences may make them more likely to develop BFRB to cope with stress, boredom, anger, or sadness.Sensory processing: Your child may experience sensations differently from other people. They may be more or less sensitive to touch, sound, or movement. They may seek out or avoid certain feelings to feel better or worse. For example, they may pull their hair or pick their skin to feel a sense of relief, pleasure, or excitement; or they may do so to distract themselves from unpleasant sensations or emotions.Learning difficulties: Your child may have trouble with learning tasks that require attention, memory, organisation, planning, or problem-solving. They may also struggle with social skills, such as understanding social cues, taking turns, or following rules. These difficulties may make them feel insecure, anxious, depressed, or frustrated. These feelings may trigger or worsen their BFRB behaviours.Family and environmental factors: Family members’ and friends’ behaviours and attitudes may influence your child. For example, teasing, bullying, criticising, punishing, or rejecting them for their appearance. They may learn to imitate or cope with stress by watching others who do the same things. They may also face adverse reactions or consequences from others who don’t understand or accept their behaviours.

How do BFRB and ADHD affect your child’s life?

BFRB and ADHD can have a significant impact on your child’s life in many ways, such as:

Physical health: BFRB can harm your child’s body. It can cause infections, scars, bald spots, or other problems. It can also affect their hygiene, nutrition, sleep, or exercise habits. ADHD can also affect their physical health by making them more prone to accidents, injuries, or illnesses.Mental health: BFRB and ADHD can affect your child’s self-image, confidence, mood, and motivation. They may feel ashamed, embarrassed, guilty, or angry about their habits. They may also feel anxious, depressed, or have low self-esteem because of their school or social situation challenges. They may isolate themselves from others or avoid activities that expose their affected areas.Social and academic functioning: BFRB and ADHD can interfere with your child’s ability to do well in school or get along with others. They may have trouble concentrating, following instructions, completing assignments, or participating in class discussions. They may lose interest in hobbies, sports, or extracurricular activities that they used to enjoy. They may also face stigma, bullying, or rejection from their peers or teachers because of how they look or act.

What are some ways to help your child cope with BFRB and ADHD?

If your child has BFRB and ADHD, you may feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or helpless. But you are not alone. Helping your child overcome these habits with them is possible in many ways. Here are some tips to try:

Get professional help: The first thing you should do is talk to a mental health professional who can diagnose your child’s condition and recommend the best treatment options. Treatment for BFRB and ADHD may include medication, therapy, coaching, or a combination of these methods. The goal of treatment is to help your child understand why they do these things, learn new ways to cope with stress and emotions, reduce their urges and behaviours, and increase their self-control and self-compassion.Learn more about BFRB and ADHD: The second thing you should do is educate yourself and your child about these conditions and how they affect them. You can read books, articles, websites, or blogs that provide reliable and accurate information about BFRB and ADHD. You can also join online or offline support groups or forums to connect with other parents or individuals with similar experiences. You can also teach your child about their condition and help them recognise their strengths and challenges. You can remind them that they are not responsible for their habits and are not alone in their difficulties.Create a supportive environment: You should create a supportive environment for your child at home, school, and other places. You can do this by:Being empathetic and accepting: You can show empathy and acceptance to your child by listening to their feelings, validating their emotions, and expressing your love and care. You can avoid criticising, blaming, or shaming them for their habits. Instead, you can encourage them to seek help when they are ready and praise them for their efforts and progress. You can also prevent nagging, reminding, or forcing them to stop their habits, as this may only make them feel more stressed and resistant.Structure and routine: You can provide design and exercise to your child by setting clear and consistent rules, expectations, and consequences. You can also help them organise their time, space, and materials. You can make a daily schedule that includes regular meals, sleep, homework, chores, and fun activities. You can also create a quiet, comfortable, distraction-free study area for them. You can also reduce their screen time and media exposure that may lead to or worsen their habits.Offering positive reinforcement: You can support your child by rewarding them for their positive behaviours and achievements. You can use verbal praise, tokens, privileges, or other meaningful and motivating incentives for them. You can also celebrate their successes and milestones with them. You can also support them in setting and accomplishing goals that are realistic and feasible and track their advancement. You can also help them cope with setbacks and failures by emphasising their efforts and learning opportunities.Modelling healthy behaviours: You can model healthy behaviours for your child by caring for your physical and mental health. You can practice good hygiene, nutrition, exercise, and relaxation habits. You can also manage your stress, emotions, and impulses constructively. You can also show interest and involvement in your child’s activities and hobbies and share quality time with them. You can also seek help and show a positive attitude towards treatment.

Final words

BFRB and ADHD are not easy conditions to deal with. They can cause many problems for your child and you. But they are not impossible to overcome. Your child can learn to control their habits and live a happy and productive life with the proper diagnosis, treatment, education, and support.

Thank you for reading! I hope you have learned some helpful information and tips on how to help your child with BFRB and ADHD from this blog post. Please comment with your questions or thoughts below.

Learn More –

https://www.additudemag.com/webinar/bfrb-adhd-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment/https://www.smartkidswithld.org/getting-help/emotions-behaviors/is-this-behavior-related-to-adhd-or-ocd/

A Big Splash by Nivedha Ganesh

A Big Splash is a heartwarming and inspiring story of Dhivya, a young girl who discovers her passion for swimming and makes new friends.

The author skillfully depicts the struggles and pleasures of following a sport in a rural Indian setting and the value of friendship and family. The characters are believable and easy to connect with, and the writing is clear and captivating.

I liked how the author mixed facts and fiction to create a vivid picture of life in Siruganpur and the world of competitive swimming. I also enjoyed the humour and the cultural references that added flavour to the story. The only thing I disliked was that the ending felt rushed and abrupt. I wish the author had shown more of Dhivya’s experiences and how she adapted to the new situations in her life.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars because it was an enjoyable and uplifting read that made me smile and cheer for Dhivya. Anyone who likes stories about sports, friendship, and overcoming difficulties will enjoy this book.

Noelle Goes to the Zoo by Mikaela Wilson, Pardeep Mehra

This book is a delightful story about patience and adventure. Noelle is excited to see the cheetahs at the zoo but must wait a long time. Along the way, she encounters other fascinating animals and learns to enjoy the thrill of exploration. The illustrations are vivid and cute, and the text is clear and captivating. This book helps kids how to cope with their emotions and expectations in a fun way. It is a beautiful book I cherish for its humour and wisdom. This book deserves a spot on every kid’s bookshelf. This book will delight anyone who is a fan of great stories.

Love & (Mellow) Drama by Manali Desai

I enjoyed reading this book as it was a sweet, light-hearted romance between two characters from different backgrounds and generations. Manali did an excellent job portraying Gayatri and Varun’s cultural and social differences, personal struggles, and dreams. The chemistry between the main couple was believable and cute, and I liked how they supported each other through their challenges. The secondary characters were also interesting and added to the story. The book also had funny moments and witty dialogue that made me smile.

The book did not surprise me much as it followed the familiar patterns of a Bollywood romance. The author’s writing style was clear and straightforward but lacked flair and detail. The ending felt out of place and inconsistent with the vibe and feel of the rest book. It seemed to focus more on the female protagonist’s empowerment than on the romantic comedy aspect. I wish the book had more suspense and drama throughout the story rather than relying on one major twist at the end.

Overall, this was a fun and relaxing read that fans of contemporary romance will enjoy. It was an excellent spin-off from the author’s previous book, Love (Try) Angle, but it can also be read as a standalone. I propose this book to anyone who loves stories about love, family, friendship, and dreams.

The Door of Destiny: A Tale of Two Outcomes

What could have been:

Lucia was running late for her job interview at the prestigious law firm. She dashed out of the subway station and sprinted towards the building, hoping to make it on time. As she approached the revolving door, she saw a handsome man in a suit exiting from the other side. They exchanged warm smiles as they looked into each other’s eyes. Lucia felt a spark of attraction and decided to take a chance. She eased her speed and anticipated his arrival at her side of the door.

She extended her hand and said, “Hi, I’m Lucia. I’m here for an interview. What’s your name?”

The man took her hand and replied, “I’m Ben. I work here as a senior partner. Nice to meet you.” He held her gaze and said, “You know what? I think you’re the perfect candidate for the position. Why don’t you come with me to my office, and we’ll talk more?”

Lucia felt a surge of excitement and followed him into the elevator. She thought to herself, this is it. This is the moment that will change my life.

What actually happened:

Lucia was running late for her job interview at the prestigious law firm. She dashed out of the subway station and sprinted towards the building, hoping to make it on time. As she approached the revolving door, she saw a handsome man in a suit exiting from the other side. They exchanged warm smiles as they looked into each other’s eyes. Lucia felt a spark of attraction and decided to take a chance. She sped up and tried to catch him on his side of the door.

She stretched out her hand and smiled, “Hi, I’m Lucia. I’m here for an interview. What’s your name?”

The man looked startled and pulled back his hand. He said, “I’m sorry, I don’t have time for this. I’m late for a meeting.” He pushed past her and walked away.

Lucia stumbled and fell into the door, causing it to spin out of control. She got hit by another door and flew out of the entrance, landing on the sidewalk with a thud. She looked up and saw a crowd of people staring at her with pity and amusement.

She heard someone say, “Ouch, that’s gotta hurt.”

She thought to herself, this is it. This is the moment that will ruin my life.

The Ultimate Guide to Eating for ADHD: Foods that Boost Focus and Reduce Symptoms

ADHD is a widespread disorder that impairs the brain’s attention, self-regulation, and emotional stability functions. While there is no cure for ADHD, some dietary changes may help improve symptoms and quality of life for people with ADHD.

There is no one-size-fits-all diet for ADHD, but some general principles can guide you in choosing foods that support your brain health and well-being. Here are some tips on what to eat and avoid to manage ADHD better.

What to Eat :

Protein: Protein helps build neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that regulate mood, attention, and behaviour. Protein also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, which can affect energy and focus. Aim for high-quality protein sources, such as lean meats, eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, beans, cheese, and yoghurt. Eat protein-rich foods in the morning and as snacks to boost your brain function throughout the day.Complex carbohydrates: The brain gets a constant flow of glucose from complex carbohydrates, which break down gradually in the body. You can get complex carbohydrates from foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and root vegetables. They also contain fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support brain health. Eat complex carbohydrates in the evening to help you relax and sleep better.Omega-3 fatty acids: The vital fats affecting brain growth and function. They have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects and may help improve symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and mood swings. Both plant foods and fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids. Some examples of plant foods are walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and soybeans. Some examples of fatty fish are salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel. You can also take omega-3 supplements with your doctor’s approval.Micronutrients: Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals needed in small amounts for various bodily functions. These nutrients are involved in the production and regulation of neurotransmitters and may affect cognitive performance and behaviour. Some micronutrients that may benefit people with ADHD include iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and folate. You can get most of these micronutrients from a balanced diet of various foods from all food groups. However, you may benefit from taking supplements under medical supervision if you have a deficiency or a higher need for certain micronutrients due to genetic or environmental factors.

What to Avoid

Simple sugars: Your blood sugar levels change rapidly when you eat simple sugars that digest quickly. This can lead to fluctuations in energy, mood, and concentration. Simple sugars also have calories that do not give you any nutrients and can make you gain weight and have other health issues. Examples of simple sugars include candy, soda, juice, honey, syrup, table sugar, and products made from refined flour. Limit your intake of simple sugars and opt for natural sweeteners like fruits or stevia.Artificial additives: Artificial additives are substances added to foods to enhance flavour, colour, texture, or shelf life. Some artificial additives that may worsen ADHD symptoms include preservatives (such as sodium benzoate), artificial colours (such as tartrazine), artificial sweeteners (such as aspartame), and flavour enhancers (such as monosodium glutamate). These additives may trigger allergic reactions or affect neurotransmitter levels in some people with ADHD. Avoid foods that contain artificial additives and choose natural or organic foods whenever possible.Allergens: Allergens are things that make some people who are allergic to them have an immune reaction. Some foods that often cause allergies are gluten (a protein in wheat and other grains), casein (a protein in dairy products), eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, and sesame seeds. Food allergies or intolerances can cause inflammation in the body and brain and may affect mood, behaviour, and cognition. If you suspect that you have a food allergy or intolerance that may be affecting your ADHD symptoms, you should consult your doctor and get tested. To test if your food allergy has changed, you can avoid the food for some time, reintroduce it gradually, and monitor your reactions. However, it would be best not to do this without medical guidance, as it may cause nutritional deficiencies or food aversion.

Conclusion

ADHD is a complicated disorder that needs a complete treatment plan, including medicine, therapy, changes in habits, and changes in food. Eating a healthy and varied diet that helps your brain health and well-being may not cure ADHD, but it may help you deal with your symptoms and improve your life. Focus on foods that may benefit your brain function, such as protein, complex carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, and micronutrients. Do not eat foods that worsen your symptoms, such as processed sugars, artificial ingredients, and foods you are allergic to. Remember to consult your doctor before significantly changing your diet or taking supplements.

References –

https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/adhd-dietshttps://www.healthline.com/nutrition/nutrition-and-adhdhttps://add.org/adhd-diet/https://www.verywellhealth.com/adhd-diet-5206146