Title: Nurturing Cognitive Growth: A Working Mom’s Strategies and the Role of Iron Supplements
Article:
Jakarta – Cognitive development plays a pivotal role in children’s growth and has lasting impacts, particularly on intelligence. Consequently, it’s a priority that should be high on every parent’s list. Vega Karina Andira Putri, a working mom and influencer known as ‘Veve’, shares her strategies to boost her children’s cognitive development.
Quality Time: A Crucial Factor
Veve emphasizes the importance of quality time spent with children, asserting that it’s crucial for their growth and development. Despite her busy schedule, she ensures she reserves quality time for her children. "Quality time is the most important thing for me. It affects their growth, development, and the genuine love and support we provide," Veve said at the Mom’s Health Corner event in South Jakarta on Thursday, December 19, 2024.
In her daily life, Veve engages her children in physical activities, believing it fosters not only cognitive but also physical development. She suggests involving children in age-appropriate activities that encourage thinking. For instance, her children enjoy playing with LEGO, which stimulates their cognitive skills. For younger children, simple color-sorting activities can be beneficial.
The Role of Iron Supplements
Veve also pays close attention to her children’s nutritional intake and iron supplements. She believes iron supplements play a significant role in boosting children’s cognitive development. Given her personal history of anemia, she ensures her children take iron supplements daily, under medical supervision.
" Iron is crucial for a child’s cognitive development and has long-term effects on their growth. It’s better to prevent deficiency than treat it later," Veve warns, highlighting the potential impacts of iron deficiency on learning and memory.
Why Iron Matters
Dr. Wisvici Yosua Samin, Msc, SpA, a pediatric specialist, explains that iron is essential for children’s growth and mental development. It aids learning, concentration, and brain functioning. Iron deficiency can lead to impaired cognitive development, poor academic performance, and delayed motor skills.
Dr. Wisvici notes that iron deficiency is still highly prevalent among children, especially in developing countries like Indonesia. Picky eating habits and the ‘no-food-waste’ movement further increase the risk of iron deficiency. He recommends consulting a healthcare provider before giving children iron supplements, as the dosage varies depending on the child’s individual needs.
"Each child is unique," Dr. Wisvici advises, "So, we can’t say that everyone needs the same amount of iron. It’s different for each child."
