Fine balance

Your cover story ‘Leveraging AI for better parenting’ (PW February) offers valuable guidance to parents navigating parenting challenges in the digital age. Very useful information on using AI-enabled apps to assist with parenting duties, especially meals planning, child health and homework support.

I thought the story struck a fine balance between embracing technological innovations such as AI and emphasising the enduring importance of parental guidance and supervision.

Ayisha Beg

Bengaluru

Essential life skill

Your Middle Years essay ‘Teaching children empathy’ (PW February) provides a refreshing perspective on developing empathy in children, an essential life skill often overlooked in traditional education. Research has consistently shown that when children learn to understand others’ feelings, they communicate better, collaborate more effectively, and create positive environments around them.

In a world where consumerism, hate and growing intolerance often dominate public discourse, it’s a powerful reminder that nurturing empathy early in life can help raise kinder, more understanding young adults who will contribute to building more compassionate and inclusive societies.

Payal B.

Chennai

Brilliant transition explanation

Your special essay ‘Navigating the parent and adult child relationship’ (PW February) brilliantly highlights the evolving nature of the parent and adult child relationship. Author Amy Root nicely explains how the transition from adolescence to adulthood requires parents and young adults to renegotiate expectations, boundaries, and communication.

In particular, I liked how the essay drew on development research to explain the concept of “emerging adulthood,” showing that becoming an adult is not defined by a single age but by a gradual process of emotional and psychological growth. The emphasis on warmth, mutual respect, and reduced parental control is especially valuable for families navigating this stage.

Above all, the essay reassures readers that trial and error is normal and that most families successfully adapt to this transition over time.

Preeti Kataria

Ahmedabad

Excellent advice

Thank you for the very informative ‘Ask the Doctor’ column (PW February) in which paediatrician Dr. Chiranth R. provided step-by-step instructions on administering home first aid to children suffering minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, burns and sprains. All parents need to be prepared to respond quickly and safely to emergencies before professional medical help arrives.

I also enjoyed reading the Ask Your Counsellor (PW February) column in which psychologist Reena Chopra offers practical suggestions to parents of introverted children. I liked her advice about respecting a child’s individuality and not forcing them to be more outgoing.

Girija Sethi

Pune

Transformative spiritual journey

Your Leisure & Travel story ‘Kailash Manasarovar Yatra’ (PW February) was riveting and inspiring. Author T.K. Chandramouli vividly captures the spiritual significance of this sacred pilgrimage, which tests devotees’ physical stamina and endurance. He presents it not just as a travel experience but as a profound spiritual quest filled with devotion, endurance, and introspection. The story beautifully conveys the awe and reverence associated with Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar and practical insights into the challenges that accompany this remarkable pilgrimage.

Sandeep Jain

Pune

Respond with understanding

Your Health & Nutrition essay ‘Silent signs of children’s emotional distress’ (PW February) was an eye-opener, explaining how children communicate emotional struggles through subtle behavioural changes rather than words.

I agree with the author that parents must make the time and effort to closely observe common warning signs in their children, and learn to respond with understanding rather than alarm.        

Garima Kapoor

Gurugram