A story of the Importance of parents' role in early childhood development
Malnutrition among children is a serious problem that hinders their growth and development, leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of malnutrition among children under five years of age in Kanakasundari Rural Municipality, Jumla district, Nepal.A few months ago, CAD Jumla, in collaboration with Plan International Nepal and Kanaksundari RM of Jumla, conducted a nutritional assessment in 8 wards. During the assessment, 8 cases of Severe Acute Malnutrition were identified. Out of these cases, 3 were sponsorship children and 5 were non-sponsorship children. One of the sponsorship children is included in the story.
Mr. Krishak Sharki, a 9-month-old child residing in ward number 8 of Kanakasundari Rural Municipality, Jumla, was previously found to have an 11 cm MUAC value, but now he has been able to gain 13.4 cm. After assessment, the CAD and GSS team guided his family to the nearby health post for treatment. The project team taught them about the development process of Jaulo, Poshilo Pitho, and lobbied with health to support the RUTF. They were also made aware of the importance of the six-month feeding process for the child. His parents have adopted good nutrition practices, and now the child has restored good health and is enjoying his childhood. (The other 7 children have also gained good nutrition status).
Child’s mother saying with her smiling face as “Girls Standing strong(GSS) team” Health mother group session and parenting sessions along with nutritional assessment has sensitized us on the importance of quality care & role of parent’s members in child care practices. With the help of assessment, now my child is in good health . In addition, she says, “I am grateful to the GSS Team and health workers disseminating information related to appropriate caring and rearing of children. In the past, we really didn’t know about the nutritional status of children and the role of parents in nurturing care for children. Now we are clear on it, so as to positively stimulate the child and improve the holistic development of the child. I have really learned many things from the assessments and regular follow-up of child health status, and I also request/expect the continuation of assessing the children regularly in the days to come.”