English summary · Published
In Episode 3 of HPE Talks, Dr. Hernold Paul E is joined by Dr. Rinsy Varughese, a developmental and behavioural pediatrician at Pushpagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Thiruvalla, and Pratheeksha CDC. Today's parents face challenges earlier generations did not, from constant screen exposure to growing awareness of ADHD and autism. This episode gives them reliable, practical guidance in Malayalam.
Developmental milestones
Dr. Rinsy explains what developmental and behavioural pediatrics is, the milestones parents can expect as a child grows, and the red flags that mean a child should be assessed early.
Tantrums (വാശി)
She explains why young children have tantrums and how parents can respond calmly and consistently. She also covers sibling rivalry and how to prepare an older child for a new baby.
ADHD and hyperactivity
- What causes ADHD and hyperactivity, and its common symptoms
- How ADHD can affect a child's studies
- Day-to-day strategies for parents, and how ADHD is treated
Screen time and mobile addiction
A large part of the episode is about phones and screens: the effects of excessive screen time, recommended limits by age, the impact of fast-paced cartoons such as CoComelon, and the importance of physical activity. Dr. Rinsy shares practical ways to reduce screen time at home.
Virtual autism and autism spectrum disorder
The episode explains what some clinicians call "virtual autism", autism-like behaviour linked to heavy early screen exposure (it is not a formal diagnosis), and how it differs from autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Rinsy covers the symptoms of autism, the treatment options and how families can support a child with autism at home.
Key takeaways
- Know the milestones and act early on red flags; early assessment makes a difference.
- Tantrums respond to calm, consistent handling, not to giving in.
- Limit screen time and replace it with play and physical activity.
- ADHD and autism are manageable with the right diagnosis, therapy and family support.