"Through playing with parents, children, with difficulties in communicating their thoughts and confused by what is going on and how they should behave, will feel understood and helped," she remarked.
Mental health is the foundation of a person's character to live life, face challenges, and shape his or her personality, according to Itabiliana.
Children, who are mentally troubled, often exhibit some negative traits, such as being aggressive, withdrawn, hyperactive, insecure, tense, isolated, and unfocused, as well as show several other characteristics, she pointed out.
To this end, she believes parents should become more aware of those traits. However, apart from asking for help from professionals, parents should set aside time for playing with their children.
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In addition, she highlighted that by interacting with their children, parents can evaluate how to behave and babysit them.
Itabiliana stated that playtime can stimulate children's motor and brain development, foster trust, and create a deep bond between parents and children.
She also advised parents to be always present for their children instead of dividing their attention.
"Eye contact with them is necessary. We are talking about quality, not quantity," she affirmed.
According to Itabiliana, 15 to 30 minutes of parental interaction with children is sufficient, but regularity of the activities is better.
Furthermore, she stressed that parents should be mindful of how they behave in front of their children. If their attention is divided, children tend to become emotional and hyperactive to seek attention.
In connection with suitable play activities for children, Itabiliana suggested storytelling, music, drama, dolls, dances, or movements, and so on.
Itabiliana remarked that fairy tales can help develop children's morality and spirituality. Meanwhile, art activities can encourage children's creativity and help them to express themselves in a positive way, thereby making their brains active.
"With such play activities, children can gain information through metaphors, something that is applied in real-life daily," she explained.
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Translator: Lia S, Kenzu T
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2021
