Letters to the editor

Dear Stan,I dedicate this to all parents who love their children and hope they will consider what I have to share with them.

Is TV baby-sitting your children these days?

I understand how busy today's parents are. Many are working to support the family and to save money for the future.

It is sad to notice many resorting to placing their children in front of the television as a way of keeping them occupied when they are at work. In my opinion it is a truly horrifying choice.

Some parents are even introducing their infants to TV even before they can read and write.

What many fail to understand is that early childhood is a time when children should be exploring the real world, not locked in front of a TV set.

TV addiction will rob the child of his or her individuality. Take time to take your toddlers out and let them see the wondrous world of nature, talk to them and be a good listener. Parents must become their best friends and trustful teacher.

Sincerely,

Herman D'couto,

Bahrain

Dear Stan,

This refers to a recent Health Weekly article by Natalie Hilton.

It is absolutely true that there is an increase in the obesity level amongst children and it is also true that today's young people get less physical exercise than the children of yesteryear.

This can be attributed to their hectic lifestyle, the present school curriculum which appears overloaded and other distractions such as the internet, TV, movies and a lack of enough playgrounds.

In fact, physical exercise should be mandatory - a daily routine and a part of the school timetable irrespective of age group or gender.

I remember during my school days there was a half-an-hour 'drill' period and one hour 'games' which was mandatory for all students.

Diet plays an important role too. Parents must prepare a different diet for children with more protein, vitamins and fibre and less fatty foods.

It appears every mother -_including mine -_wish their children to look fat, round and chubby and do not understand the consequences.

Yours sincerely,

Seturam Aspari,

Adliya.