The short stature of children of their age is a direct manifestation of stunting in children. But there are several factors that contribute to a child’s stunting.
A child or toddler is considered stunted if their length or height are measured and then compared to the standard, with the results falling below the normal range.
Stunting in children is a problem because it is associated with an increased risk of brain development problems, motor development problems, and mental growth retardation in children.
Mothers must be well-versed in the characteristics of stunting. Because a child suffering from stunting does not only have short stature. Other features include:
- Growth slows and does not occur at a normal rate for the age.
- Teeth develop later than usual.
- His face appears younger than his age.
- At the age of five, weight does not increase and, in fact, tends to decrease.
- Lack of concentration when studying in school-age children (concentration disorders).
- Children between the ages of 8 and 10 become more withdrawn, making little eye contact with those around them.
- Late menarche (daughter’s first menstruation) impedes the development of the child’s body.
- Children are easily ill and vulnerable to a variety of infectious diseases.
Child stunting occurs in Indonesia not only among poor and underprivileged families, but also among families who are not poor/have a social and economic welfare level greater than 40%. So, let us learn about children’s nutritional needs in order to prevent stunting!
Also read: 5 Easy Ways to Prevent Diabetes in Children
