The school playground was quiet that day—at least quieter than usual. I noticed Suraiya sitting alone, not playing with her friends. For a 5 or 6-year-old child, that’s not a good sign. At this age, children naturally crave social interaction and playful activities, especially during school hours.
I gently approached her and asked, “Why aren’t you playing today?”
She replied, “I don’t feel like it.”
That simple sentence raised an alarm in my heart. While it’s true that some children are naturally shy or introverted, after almost a year in school, they usually adapt and become more comfortable with their environment. A sudden disinterest in playtime can indicate something deeper—either emotional stress or physical weakness.
To understand more, I asked her what she had eaten during tiffin (snack time).
She said, “Lichi.”
Then I asked, “What about breakfast?”
She answered, “Just a banana.”
I was shocked.
Seriously? A growing child went to school after eating only a banana for breakfast and a handful of lychee during tiffin? She has to stay in school until 1:30 or even 2:00 PM with that little nourishment?
Why This Matters
At this tender age, children are not just growing physically but emotionally and intellectually as well. Nutrition plays a crucial role in their development. A lack of proper food can lead to:
- Low energy and fatigue
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating in class
- Withdrawal from physical or social activities
All of which might explain why Suraiya didn’t feel like playing that day.
A Gentle Reminder for Parents
As parents, we all want the best for our children. But in the rush of everyday life, we may sometimes overlook the basics—like proper meals and emotional well-being.
Let’s take a moment each morning to ensure:
- Our child eats a balanced breakfast
- We pack a nutritious tiffin that includes protein, fruits, and some healthy carbs
- We check in on their mood and energy levels
Because when we care for their little needs, we build a strong foundation for their big dreams.
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