An overloaded ferry carrying school children reportedly sank in a river resulting in the deaths of 10-11 children in Cambodia. The incident took place in the Campbell Province about 53 kilometers southeast of the capital of Nam Fen.

Cambodia Boat Mishap: At least 11 children dead after boat sinks in Kandal province

A study has found that playing with mud helps children build resilience against allergies, asthma, and anxiety. Where does this leave today's children who spend more time with gadgets than playing outdoors?

Gravitas: Study says playing with mud is good for children

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire. A report by BBC citing a recent study has shown how playing with mud and dirt can actually train a child’s immune system to fight against a range of illnesses like allergies and asthma.&nbsp;

The report also claims that it can be beneficial for a child’s mental health by making them more resilient against anxiety and depression. The study shows how staying outdoors and playing with certain natural materials like soil or mud which contain powerful microorganisms can have a positive impact on a child’s health and well-being.&nbsp;

“Mud play” and health

A report by Healthline, also citing multiple studies, proposes what they call “mud play”, they elucidate by saying that it is like playing in a box of sand or on a beach, except it is with mud which is damp or wet dirt.&nbsp;

They claim that studies have shown how playing in mud is actually good for a child’s health as opposed to them living in a clean environment which on the contrary can lead to the risk of illnesses like allergies and asthma.&nbsp;

Germs found in mud may actually strengthen a child’s immune system, citing research from 2014, the report shows that even when young children were exposed to dust, pet dander and other allergens before the age of one they were less likely to develop allergies and wheezing later in childhood.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/signs-of-dementia-can-be-detected-at-least-nine-years-prior-to-official-diagnosis-says-study-525111">Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study</a>

On the other hand, a 2016 study showed that children raised on non-industrial farms were less likely to develop asthma when compared to those who weren’t. The report by BBC shows how the recent study offers a fresh take on the "hygiene hypothesis".&nbsp;

According to this idea, the major reduction in childhood infections in the 20th century had a side effect on people’s immune systems, like them becoming overactive to stimulations which supposedly resulted in the rise of asthma, allergies and hay fever, said the report. However, many scientists, BBC said, dislike the idea as they believe it undermines and even discourages the importance of behaviours like hand-washing.&nbsp;

Another piece by Healthline citing the Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health said that there are 100 trillion microbes, many of which are beneficial for digesting food, producing vitamins, and even fighting bad bacteria.&nbsp;

They note that over time, especially during childhood humans develop a baseline microbiome (several microbes living in and on one's body) which is different for everyone and playing in the dirt can help “replenish beneficial microbes”. This in turn maintains the baseline of the microbiome and a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria said the report.&nbsp;

Another interesting study by Michele Antonelli, a doctor from Reggio Emilia, a city in Italy, whose area of research includes how mud therapies can influence health, indicates that the microbes found in mud can act on and through our skin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/significant-milestone-hole-in-the-ozone-layer-will-close-in-the-next-50-years-520882">'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years</a>

According to him, our outer layer of skin is home to a host of species of microbes and people with skin disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis seem to lack this community of organisms. “These microorganisms can play a major role in many major chronic diseases,” said Antonelli, reported by BBC.&nbsp;

Playing in mud improves mental health?

A 2007 study titled, “Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: Potential role in regulation of emotional behavior” found that dirt contains a harmless bacteria called, “Mycobacterium vaccae” which the study claims can stimulate serotonin production in the brain.&nbsp;

“Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood and other body functions. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to anxiety and depression,” said the report by Healthline. Furthermore, playing in dirt and mud also reportedly supports sensory development in children.&nbsp;

It added that temperatures and textures of dirt stimulate the sense of touch while the earthy scent can invigorate a child’s sense of smell. Additionally, interacting with nature and its various colours can stimulate a child’s sense of sight while listening to a variety of natural sounds can help develop their sense of hearing, the report indicated.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the media report shows that playing in the dirt can reduce bodily reactions like inflammation. They elucidated this idea by saying that since inflammation is our body’s first defence against infection which is used to help us prepare for potential physical injury when threatened, it is less useful in the kinds of stress that we face today.&nbsp;

This was based on a study titled, “Less immune activation following social stress in rural vs. urban participants raised with regular or no animal contact, respectively”. According to this research, people who spent the majority of their childhood in a rural setting show a muted response to social stress like public speaking when compared to their urban counterparts.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-forever-chemicals-in-every-umbilical-cord-blood-sample-across-40-studies-519298">Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies</a>

In the long term, it has serious consequences, since chronic bodily inflammation can contribute to a range of conditions including the risk of depression, said the report. The study’s co-author Christopher A. Lowry also described those who grew up in the city as “walking time bombs” in the context of their inflammation.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that mud play can be used as a teaching tool where it can help children boost their creativity, imagination, independent learning as well as teamwork.&nbsp;

Word of caution

While several studies and research have shown the various benefits of playing in mud and dirt, it is still dirt. Therefore, the reports also warn that not all mud or dirt is safe, saying that kids should be kept away from areas used by dogs or cats as bathrooms or places where farm animals graze.&nbsp;

Reports also suggest that children should not play with dirt treated with chemicals and pesticides and areas near petrol pumps and factories should also be avoided. Meanwhile, doctors also warn against letting children eat too much mud and indicate that mud getting in their eyes, nose and ears should also be avoided.&nbsp;

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire.

There has been a lot of back and forth on whether parents should let their kids play in the mud or dirt but studies have suggested that not letting kids get dirty once in a while might backfire. A report by BBC citing a recent study has shown how playing with mud and dirt can actually train a child’s immune system to fight against a range of illnesses like allergies and asthma. The report also claims that it can be beneficial for a child’s mental health by making them more resilient against anxiety and depression. The study shows how staying outdoors and playing with certain natural materials like soil or mud which contain powerful microorganisms can have a positive impact on a child’s health and well-being. “Mud play” and health A report by Healthline, also citing multiple studies, proposes what they call “mud play”, they elucidate by saying that it is like playing in a box of sand or on a beach, except it is with mud which is damp or wet dirt. They claim that studies have shown how playing in mud is actually good for a child’s health as opposed to them living in a clean environment which on the contrary can lead to the risk of illnesses like allergies and asthma. Germs found in mud may actually strengthen a child’s immune system, citing research from 2014, the report shows that even when young children were exposed to dust, pet dander and other allergens before the age of one they were less likely to develop allergies and wheezing later in childhood. ALSO READ: Signs of dementia can be detected at least nine years prior to official diagnosis, says study On the other hand, a 2016 study showed that children raised on non-industrial farms were less likely to develop asthma when compared to those who weren’t. The report by BBC shows how the recent study offers a fresh take on the "hygiene hypothesis". According to this idea, the major reduction in childhood infections in the 20th century had a side effect on people’s immune systems, like them becoming overactive to stimulations which supposedly resulted in the rise of asthma, allergies and hay fever, said the report. However, many scientists, BBC said, dislike the idea as they believe it undermines and even discourages the importance of behaviours like hand-washing. Another piece by Healthline citing the Center for Ecogenetics and Environmental Health said that there are 100 trillion microbes, many of which are beneficial for digesting food, producing vitamins, and even fighting bad bacteria. They note that over time, especially during childhood humans develop a baseline microbiome (several microbes living in and on one's body) which is different for everyone and playing in the dirt can help “replenish beneficial microbes”. This in turn maintains the baseline of the microbiome and a healthy balance between good and bad bacteria said the report. Another interesting study by Michele Antonelli, a doctor from Reggio Emilia, a city in Italy, whose area of research includes how mud therapies can influence health, indicates that the microbes found in mud can act on and through our skin. ALSO READ: 'Significant milestone': Hole in the ozone layer will close in the next 50 years According to him, our outer layer of skin is home to a host of species of microbes and people with skin disorders like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis seem to lack this community of organisms. “These microorganisms can play a major role in many major chronic diseases,” said Antonelli, reported by BBC. Playing in mud improves mental health? A 2007 study titled, “Identification of an immune-responsive mesolimbocortical serotonergic system: Potential role in regulation of emotional behavior” found that dirt contains a harmless bacteria called, “Mycobacterium vaccae” which the study claims can stimulate serotonin production in the brain. “Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls mood and other body functions. It’s thought that low serotonin levels may contribute to anxiety and depression,” said the report by Healthline. Furthermore, playing in dirt and mud also reportedly supports sensory development in children. It added that temperatures and textures of dirt stimulate the sense of touch while the earthy scent can invigorate a child’s sense of smell. Additionally, interacting with nature and its various colours can stimulate a child’s sense of sight while listening to a variety of natural sounds can help develop their sense of hearing, the report indicated. On the other hand, the media report shows that playing in the dirt can reduce bodily reactions like inflammation. They elucidated this idea by saying that since inflammation is our body’s first defence against infection which is used to help us prepare for potential physical injury when threatened, it is less useful in the kinds of stress that we face today. This was based on a study titled, “Less immune activation following social stress in rural vs. urban participants raised with regular or no animal contact, respectively”. According to this research, people who spent the majority of their childhood in a rural setting show a muted response to social stress like public speaking when compared to their urban counterparts. ALSO READ: Scientists find 'forever chemicals' in every umbilical cord blood sample across 40 studies In the long term, it has serious consequences, since chronic bodily inflammation can contribute to a range of conditions including the risk of depression, said the report. The study’s co-author Christopher A. Lowry also described those who grew up in the city as “walking time bombs” in the context of their inflammation. Reports also suggest that mud play can be used as a teaching tool where it can help children boost their creativity, imagination, independent learning as well as teamwork. Word of caution While several studies and research have shown the various benefits of playing in mud and dirt, it is still dirt. Therefore, the reports also warn that not all mud or dirt is safe, saying that kids should be kept away from areas used by dogs or cats as bathrooms or places where farm animals graze. Reports also suggest that children should not play with dirt treated with chemicals and pesticides and areas near petrol pumps and factories should also be avoided. Meanwhile, doctors also warn against letting children eat too much mud and indicate that mud getting in their eyes, nose and ears should also be avoided.

Is playing in mud good for kids? Here’s what studies have to say

TikTok could face a 27 million-pound ($29 million) fine in the Britain over a possible breach of data protection law by failing to protect children's privacy when they are using the video-sharing platform.

WION Business News | TikTok fails to protect children's policy, UK to fine video-sharing platform

Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO).&nbsp;

The regulator in its provisional view asserted that the Bytedance-led platform may have processed data of children under the age of 13 without parental consent.&nbsp;Reportedly, Information Commissioner John Edwards in his findings said TikTok fell short of meeting data privacy protection requirements.

"We all want children to be able to learn and experience the digital world, but with proper data privacy protections. Companies providing digital services have a legal duty to put those protections in place, but our provisional view is that TikTok fell short of meeting that requirement," said Edwards.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-wanted-to-open-tiktok-account-to-promote-propaganda-report-501963">&nbsp;China wanted to open TikTok account to promote propaganda: Report</a>

Consequently, the company has been slapped with a 'notice of intent' which is dubbed as a precursor to the fine, which could total up to $29 million or four per cent of the company's global annual turnover. In the process, TikTok has become one of the first social media companies to be issued such a formal notice.

TikTok in response said it will challenge the notice, "This Notice of Intent, covering the period May 2018-July 2020, is provisional and as the ICO itself has stated, no final conclusions can be drawn at this time," said a company spokesperson.

"While we respect the ICO's role in safeguarding privacy in the UK, we disagree with the preliminary views expressed and intend to formally respond to the ICO in due course," the company added.&nbsp;

This is not the first time that TikTok has been asked to cough up fines related to child privacy matters. In&nbsp;early 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to settle accusations that it had collected personal information of children on its platform by illegal means.&nbsp;

Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tiktok-under-fire-for-promoting-weight-loss-aids-to-children-518566">:&nbsp;TikTok under fire for promoting weight loss aids to children</a>

According to the US Department of Justice, TikTok had violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), under which websites and social media platforms such as TikTok are required to obtain parental consent before harvesting the personal information of minors.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO).

Short video sharing platform TikTok is staring at a $29 million fine in UK for endangering and failing to protect the identities of children on its platform. The China-based company was found wanting after an investigation carried out by UK's Information Commissioner Office (ICO). The regulator in its provisional view asserted that the Bytedance-led platform may have processed data of children under the age of 13 without parental consent. Reportedly, Information Commissioner John Edwards in his findings said TikTok fell short of meeting data privacy protection requirements. "We all want children to be able to learn and experience the digital world, but with proper data privacy protections. Companies providing digital services have a legal duty to put those protections in place, but our provisional view is that TikTok fell short of meeting that requirement," said Edwards. Read more: China wanted to open TikTok account to promote propaganda: Report Consequently, the company has been slapped with a 'notice of intent' which is dubbed as a precursor to the fine, which could total up to $29 million or four per cent of the company's global annual turnover. In the process, TikTok has become one of the first social media companies to be issued such a formal notice. TikTok in response said it will challenge the notice, "This Notice of Intent, covering the period May 2018-July 2020, is provisional and as the ICO itself has stated, no final conclusions can be drawn at this time," said a company spokesperson. "While we respect the ICO's role in safeguarding privacy in the UK, we disagree with the preliminary views expressed and intend to formally respond to the ICO in due course," the company added. This is not the first time that TikTok has been asked to cough up fines related to child privacy matters. In early 2019, the company agreed to pay $5.7 million to US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to settle accusations that it had collected personal information of children on its platform by illegal means. Read more: TikTok under fire for promoting weight loss aids to children According to the US Department of Justice, TikTok had violated the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), under which websites and social media platforms such as TikTok are required to obtain parental consent before harvesting the personal information of minors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

TikTok could face $29 million in fines in UK for endangering children's privacy

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae.

UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that she was seen among a group of other children attending the anniversary of the founding of North Korea earlier this month.

She was performing a song at the event, which saw the attendance of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju.

During her performance, something stood out, experts noted.

A self-proclaimed North Korean analyst of InDPRK.com blog, which identifies itself as a North Korean travel agency, pointed to the actions of Ri Sol-ju concerning this girl.

She was seen patting the kid's back and talking to her personally, while Ju-ae "appeared calmer". At that time, the other children were seen huddling around the North Korean dictator and jumping excitedly.

Notably, it is said that the girl also stood out because of her attire, as she was the only one with her hair down and donning white socks.

Moreover, the camera seemed to focus more on her, lingering for several seconds when the song began and returning to her frequently.

According to local reports, Ju-ae is believed to have been born in 2013.

Little is known about Kim Jong-un's children. The fact that he has a daughter was first revealed by Kim's friend and basketball star Dennis Rodman after his visit to the hermit country in 2013.

That would make the girl around nine or 10 years old —which matches up with the child in the new video, Pyongyang experts noted.

In 2017, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Kim has three children with Ri. The first one is a son born in 2010, and the youngest is a child born in early 2017, whose gender is yet to be confirmed. Ju-ae is said to be the middle child.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae.

A teen girl who appeared on state TV during a recent event in North Korea has caught everyone’s attention, leading many to believe that she may be the country's leader Kim Jong-un’s reclusive and only daughter rumoured to be named Ju-ae. UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that she was seen among a group of other children attending the anniversary of the founding of North Korea earlier this month. She was performing a song at the event, which saw the attendance of Kim and his wife Ri Sol-ju. During her performance, something stood out, experts noted. A self-proclaimed North Korean analyst of InDPRK.com blog, which identifies itself as a North Korean travel agency, pointed to the actions of Ri Sol-ju concerning this girl. She was seen patting the kid's back and talking to her personally, while Ju-ae "appeared calmer". At that time, the other children were seen huddling around the North Korean dictator and jumping excitedly. Notably, it is said that the girl also stood out because of her attire, as she was the only one with her hair down and donning white socks. Moreover, the camera seemed to focus more on her, lingering for several seconds when the song began and returning to her frequently. According to local reports, Ju-ae is believed to have been born in 2013. Little is known about Kim Jong-un's children. The fact that he has a daughter was first revealed by Kim's friend and basketball star Dennis Rodman after his visit to the hermit country in 2013. That would make the girl around nine or 10 years old —which matches up with the child in the new video, Pyongyang experts noted. In 2017, South Korea's National Intelligence Service said that Kim has three children with Ri. The first one is a son born in 2010, and the youngest is a child born in early 2017, whose gender is yet to be confirmed. Ju-ae is said to be the middle child. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Is this Kim Jong-un’s reclusive daughter? Experts reveal key clues

Hunger levels in Somalia have left more than 500,000 children at the risk of dying. Amid a deadly famine, the mothers and famine hit Somalis are now bringing their starving children to nutrition centers with the hope that they can get some access to food.

WION Climate Tracker | Somalia's children face starvation deaths

As per a report by SkyNews, dealers are now using social media to peddle drugs to children.&nbsp;These contain cannabis and are packaged in appealing candy wrappers, which are predictably appealing to kids. In recent days, six children had to be sent to the hospital after eating these; one of them was just eight years old.

The "candies" are frequently advertised and offered for sale alongside class A substances like heroin, cocaine, LSD, and copious amounts of marijuana.

Watch |&nbsp;World of Africa | Battle to legalise cannabis in South Africa

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A SkyNews investigation found that dealers are openly operating on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Snapchat.

While some CBD-infused goods are available legally in stores across the nation, these candies contain significant concentrations of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that is used to "get high".

Cannabis edibles, according to Detective Chief Inspector Rob Burns of Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), are illegal and can cause adverse reactions like unconsciousness.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/england-children-hospitalised-after-eating-cannabis-laced-candy-382290">England: Children hospitalised after eating cannabis-laced candy</a>

"The way they are branded to look like sweets suggests they are being marketed at children, but worryingly also means that they could easily fall into the wrong hands."

As per the report, there are concerns that county lines gangs are using these drugs to lure children into drug trafficking. Although they are based in big cities, these gangs supply and sell drugs to users in small towns and rural areas using young people.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-gather-to-smoke-up-at-thailands-first-legal-cannabis-festival-487790">Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival</a>

Boys and girls under 18 are eating cannabis edibles, mainly those of secondary school age, according to information from ERSOU. A third of those detained in connection with cannabis edibles, according to police in the east of England, are&nbsp;under the age of 18.

Police departments all around the UK are concerned about cannabis sweets. Nearly every police force in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland has experienced a problem with the candies in their neighbourhood.

(With inputs from agencies)

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

As per a report by SkyNews, dealers are now using social media to peddle drugs to children. These contain cannabis and are packaged in appealing candy wrappers, which are predictably appealing to kids.

As per a report by SkyNews, dealers are now using social media to peddle drugs to children. These contain cannabis and are packaged in appealing candy wrappers, which are predictably appealing to kids. In recent days, six children had to be sent to the hospital after eating these; one of them was just eight years old. The "candies" are frequently advertised and offered for sale alongside class A substances like heroin, cocaine, LSD, and copious amounts of marijuana. Watch | World of Africa | Battle to legalise cannabis in South Africa A SkyNews investigation found that dealers are openly operating on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Snapchat. While some CBD-infused goods are available legally in stores across the nation, these candies contain significant concentrations of THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis that is used to "get high". Cannabis edibles, according to Detective Chief Inspector Rob Burns of Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), are illegal and can cause adverse reactions like unconsciousness. Also read | England: Children hospitalised after eating cannabis-laced candy "The way they are branded to look like sweets suggests they are being marketed at children, but worryingly also means that they could easily fall into the wrong hands." As per the report, there are concerns that county lines gangs are using these drugs to lure children into drug trafficking. Although they are based in big cities, these gangs supply and sell drugs to users in small towns and rural areas using young people. Also read | Thousands gather to 'smoke up' at Thailand's first fully legal cannabis festival Boys and girls under 18 are eating cannabis edibles, mainly those of secondary school age, according to information from ERSOU. A third of those detained in connection with cannabis edibles, according to police in the east of England, are under the age of 18. Police departments all around the UK are concerned about cannabis sweets. Nearly every police force in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland has experienced a problem with the candies in their neighbourhood. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cannabis 'candies' being sold to children in UK, six hospitalised

From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of&nbsp;school.

"It is horrendous, and it's hard to imagine," said Yasmine Sherif, head of Education Cannot Wait, a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fund that focuses on education in&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;zones.

"They've lost everything, and on top of it, they have lost their access to a quality education," she said in a recent interview.

Sherif spoke to AFP ahead of a&nbsp;UN&nbsp;summit on the education&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;to take place Monday, a day before the annual General Assembly.

The&nbsp;UN&nbsp;fund estimates that 222 million children around the world have seen their education disrupted by conflict or climate-related disasters, including nearly 80 million who never set foot in&nbsp;school.

Since 2016, Education Cannot Wait has raised more than $1 billion to build&nbsp;schools&nbsp;and buy educational materials as well as provide daily meals and offer psychological services. The aid helps nearly seven million children in 32 countries.&nbsp;

But Sherif said that the urgency of the situation required much bigger efforts.

"If we are going to meet the needs, we have to think in completely different terms today," she said. "We are speaking billions and billions here, not&nbsp;millions" of dollars.

Following the&nbsp;UN&nbsp;summit, Sherif is organizing a conference in Geneva in February where the fund will seek a further $1.5 billion with a goal of reaching an additional 20 million children.

Some Western nations spend $10,000 per year on educating a child. If children in conflict&nbsp;zones&nbsp;receive $150 each, "you can see the extreme divide," said Sherif, who is Swedish.

In some conflict&nbsp;zones,&nbsp;schools&nbsp;have been destroyed, in what Sherif denounced as war crimes, while others, in violation of international law, have been turned into weapons depots.

Elsewhere, physical danger or the gradual unraveling of infrastructure and public services have shut down education, which Sherif said should be a lifeline for the world's young.

"What we offer is a tool, a hope, an empowerment, to resist those forces in a conflict and, through their own means, be able to rise out of those ashes," she said.

The lack of education has real and immediate consequences. Children sometimes end up on the streets, facing threats of violence, human trafficking, recruitment by armed groups or, for girls, forced marriage.

"They've seen their villages burned down, they've seen their parents be executed, they have been subjected to violence. The only thing left for them is, 'If I can get an education, I can rise up out of this and make a difference in my life,'" Sherif said.

"We're taking away that very last piece of hope, unless we provide them with an education."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of school.

From Pakistan to Ukraine to Venezuela to vast stretches of sub-Saharan Africa, rising crises and climate disasters are taking an added toll on the most vulnerable -- children deprived of school. "It is horrendous, and it's hard to imagine," said Yasmine Sherif, head of Education Cannot Wait, a UN fund that focuses on education in crisis zones. "They've lost everything, and on top of it, they have lost their access to a quality education," she said in a recent interview. Sherif spoke to AFP ahead of a UN summit on the education crisis to take place Monday, a day before the annual General Assembly. The UN fund estimates that 222 million children around the world have seen their education disrupted by conflict or climate-related disasters, including nearly 80 million who never set foot in school. Since 2016, Education Cannot Wait has raised more than $1 billion to build schools and buy educational materials as well as provide daily meals and offer psychological services. The aid helps nearly seven million children in 32 countries. But Sherif said that the urgency of the situation required much bigger efforts. "If we are going to meet the needs, we have to think in completely different terms today," she said. "We are speaking billions and billions here, not millions" of dollars. Following the UN summit, Sherif is organizing a conference in Geneva in February where the fund will seek a further $1.5 billion with a goal of reaching an additional 20 million children. Some Western nations spend $10,000 per year on educating a child. If children in conflict zones receive $150 each, "you can see the extreme divide," said Sherif, who is Swedish. In some conflict zones, schools have been destroyed, in what Sherif denounced as war crimes, while others, in violation of international law, have been turned into weapons depots. Elsewhere, physical danger or the gradual unraveling of infrastructure and public services have shut down education, which Sherif said should be a lifeline for the world's young. "What we offer is a tool, a hope, an empowerment, to resist those forces in a conflict and, through their own means, be able to rise out of those ashes," she said. The lack of education has real and immediate consequences. Children sometimes end up on the streets, facing threats of violence, human trafficking, recruitment by armed groups or, for girls, forced marriage. "They've seen their villages burned down, they've seen their parents be executed, they have been subjected to violence. The only thing left for them is, 'If I can get an education, I can rise up out of this and make a difference in my life,'" Sherif said. "We're taking away that very last piece of hope, unless we provide them with an education." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

In crisis zones, an urgent UN push to put millions in school

A new study claims that children can be affected by their fathers' and grandfathers' smoking habits. Meaning, your grandchildren could be forced to pay the price of the cigarettes you smoke. Priyanka Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Children whose fathers smoke are more likely to get asthma

A recent study found children are more likely to suffer from asthma if their parents inhaled secondhand tobacco smoke in their childhood or were active smokers themselves. &nbsp;

In the study, which was published in the European Respiratory Journal, the international team of scientists also said that the impact of smoking and the resultant respiratory problems can be found over the next two generations in a phenomenon called “transgenerational effect”.&nbsp;

The team included several researchers from United Kingdom,&nbsp;Australia and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shanghai-cooperation-organisation-sco-summit-live-updates-515964" hreflang="en">SCO Summit LIVE | Putin thanks China's Xi, Modi lands in Samarkand</a>

“We found that the risk of non-allergic asthma in children increases by 59% if their fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke in childhood, compared to children whose fathers were not exposed."&nbsp;

“The risk was even higher, at 72%, if the fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke and went on to smoke themselves,” said Jiacheng Liu, from Melbourne University, told The Guardian.&nbsp;

Dr Dinh Bui, co-author of the study, believes that the study will be important in raising awareness regarding the harmful impacts of the smoking and can even result in "real change".&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/queen-elizabeth-iis-funeral-live-updates-515646">LIVE | Queen Elizabeth II's funeral details out, over 2,000 guests to attend</a>

“Our findings show how the damage caused by smoking can have an impact not only on smokers but also their children and grandchildren,” she said while explaining the reasons behind the study.&nbsp;

“Paternal smoke exposure before the age of 15 years is a major risk factor for non-allergic asthma.”&nbsp;

The study mentioned a number of cases where smoking ended up altering epigenetic changes and that was stated to be the most likely reasons behind the increase risks of asthma in future generations.&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A recent study found children are more likely to suffer from asthma if their parents inhaled secondhand tobacco smoke in their childhood or were active smokers themselves.

A recent study found children are more likely to suffer from asthma if their parents inhaled secondhand tobacco smoke in their childhood or were active smokers themselves. In the study, which was published in the European Respiratory Journal, the international team of scientists also said that the impact of smoking and the resultant respiratory problems can be found over the next two generations in a phenomenon called “transgenerational effect”. The team included several researchers from United Kingdom, Australia and Sri Lanka. Also read | SCO Summit LIVE | Putin thanks China's Xi, Modi lands in Samarkand “We found that the risk of non-allergic asthma in children increases by 59% if their fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke in childhood, compared to children whose fathers were not exposed." “The risk was even higher, at 72%, if the fathers were exposed to secondhand smoke and went on to smoke themselves,” said Jiacheng Liu, from Melbourne University, told The Guardian. Dr Dinh Bui, co-author of the study, believes that the study will be important in raising awareness regarding the harmful impacts of the smoking and can even result in "real change". Also read | LIVE | Queen Elizabeth II's funeral details out, over 2,000 guests to attend “Our findings show how the damage caused by smoking can have an impact not only on smokers but also their children and grandchildren,” she said while explaining the reasons behind the study. “Paternal smoke exposure before the age of 15 years is a major risk factor for non-allergic asthma.” The study mentioned a number of cases where smoking ended up altering epigenetic changes and that was stated to be the most likely reasons behind the increase risks of asthma in future generations.

Children, grandchildren of parents exposed to secondhand smoke more likely to get asthma: Study

Let us take a look at stories generating interest across WION's social media channels.

Trending on WION | Report: Children increasingly using social media to escape 'negative feelings'

Britney Spears has released a series of audio clips on her Instagram page in which she discusses her estrangement from her two sons, Sean Preston, 16, and Jayden, 15.

WION Fineprint | Britney Spears reflects on sons leaving: 'A huge part of me has died'

Somalia is facing a deadly drought. The situation in the country is growing grimmer with each passing day. The UN has even warned that the drought has left Somalia on the brink of famine.

WION Climate Tracker | UNICEF warns of disease outbreak among children in Somalia

Gravitas Plus | Do you pack your child's schedule with activities? Does your child have no time to get bored? Did you know boredom is a great teacher? Boredom teaches children life lessons that worksheets and seminars can't. Listen in to Palki Sharma (@palkisu).

Gravitas Plus: Why children need to be taught the art of doing nothing?

In a heart-warming&nbsp;initiative,&nbsp;window cleaners turned into&nbsp;superheroes by donning different costumes&nbsp;while working to&nbsp;cheer up the kids being treated at a hospital in Canada.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The special efforts made by the cleaners have left many people emotional.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A few images and&nbsp;the story have been shared on Twitter by the hospital.

&nbsp;It is now trending and&nbsp;is sure to&nbsp;fill hearts&nbsp;with happiness and&nbsp;faces&nbsp;with smiles.&nbsp;

In the tweet,&nbsp;the hospital thanked these workers for making the day special for the kids, who are undergoing treatments.

&nbsp;“Our #healthcare heroes received some back-up today - #superheroes brought smiles to the faces of our youngest #patients. Staff from @EliteWindowC rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun &amp; distraction to patients, family &amp; staff,” the hospital tweeted.&nbsp;

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Our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/healthcare?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#healthcare</a> heroes received some back-up today - <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/superheroes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#superheroes</a> brought smiles to the faces of our youngest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/patients?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#patients</a>. Staff from <a href="https://twitter.com/EliteWindowC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EliteWindowC</a> rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun &amp; distraction to patients, family &amp; staff. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ygk?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ygk</a> <a href="https://t.co/TLie1vccLx">pic.twitter.com/TLie1vccLx</a>
— KingstonHSC (@KingstonHSC) <a href="https://twitter.com/KingstonHSC/status/1416111222425112584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Even after being shared a day ago, the&nbsp;post has already garnered more than 1,000 likes. The list of retweets and people following is growing by the minute.&nbsp;

Not just this, there are&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;comments from&nbsp;netizens, who are all praise for the workers.&nbsp;A Twitter user said,&nbsp;“Tears. Every. Single. Time.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Aww, these photos are always THE BEST,”&nbsp;said another user.&nbsp;

In a heart-warming initiative, window cleaners turned into superheroes by donning different costumes while working to cheer up the kids being treated at a hospital in Canada.

In a heart-warming initiative, window cleaners turned into superheroes by donning different costumes while working to cheer up the kids being treated at a hospital in Canada. The special efforts made by the cleaners have left many people emotional. A few images and the story have been shared on Twitter by the hospital. It is now trending and is sure to fill hearts with happiness and faces with smiles. In the tweet, the hospital thanked these workers for making the day special for the kids, who are undergoing treatments. “Our #healthcare heroes received some back-up today - #superheroes brought smiles to the faces of our youngest #patients. Staff from @EliteWindowC rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun & distraction to patients, family & staff,” the hospital tweeted. Our #healthcare heroes received some back-up today - #superheroes brought smiles to the faces of our youngest #patients. Staff from @EliteWindowC rappelled down the building to not only fight grime, but bring much needed fun & distraction to patients, family & staff. #ygk pic.twitter.com/TLie1vccLx — KingstonHSC (@KingstonHSC) July 16, 2021 × Even after being shared a day ago, the post has already garnered more than 1,000 likes. The list of retweets and people following is growing by the minute. Not just this, there are numerous comments from netizens, who are all praise for the workers. A Twitter user said, “Tears. Every. Single. Time.” “Aww, these photos are always THE BEST,” said another user.

To cheer up children, window cleaners become ‘superheroes’ in Canada

A new report released by the Brookings Institution has found that the average cost of raising a child has grown to over $300,000 in the USA, primarily due to sky-high inflation rates.

A new report released by the Brookings Institution has found that the average cost of raising a child has grown to over $300,000 in the USA, primarily due to sky-high inflation rates. Reportedly, the research showed that the average amount required to raise a child of a middle-income married couple, born in 2015, till he/she is 17 years old or in high school will be $310,605; which comes down to roughly $18,271 per year. The estimates include everything from housing, food, clothing, healthcare, child care, diapers, haircuts, and sports equipment. Moreover, it includes the money spent on learning extracurricular activities and celebrating different childhood milestones. “A lot of people are going to think twice before they have either a first child or a subsequent child because everything is costing more. You also may feel like you have to work more.” said Isabel Sawhill, a senior fellow at the institute. It is pertinent to note that the earlier figure stood at $233,610, as released by the US Department of Agriculture in 2015. According to Brookings Institution, the new calculations used the previous government estimate only, using it as a baseline but also pairing it up with the recent inflation trends. What is the inflation trend in the US? As reported by WION, US has been facing its worst bout of economic slowdown in recent times. The economy has contracted for two successive quarters which suggests that a recession has set in place. Read More: President Biden claims US had ‘zero per cent inflation’ in July; gets trolled by Republicans The inflation rate for the month of July stood at 8.5 per cent, majorly due to a drop in fuel prices. However, if compared to year-on-year numbers, the inflation rate was still touching a 40-year record high and consumers were bearing the brunt of it. In June, the figure stood at 9.1 per cent. Moreover, a recent Bloomberg survey stated that there was a 40 per cent chance that the country will slip into a recession by next year. Read more: Zero probability of recession in India while US has a 40 per cent chance: Study (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Want to raise a kid in the US? Be prepared to shell over $300,000

Around 1 million children in London will be offered a polio booster vaccine. The decision came after the virus was detected in sewage samples across the UK capital.

United Kingdom: Urgent polio boosters for London children

Since the take over of Afghanistan by the Taliban, the country's economic prospects continue to remain grim. The country's children bear the most brunt of the economic situation as 97% of the population remains below poverty.

Afghanistan children bear the brunt of economic woes, 97% population below poverty

When it comes to self-driving cars, the concern about the technology's ability to recognise a pedestrian in its path has always been there. Even when the technology manufacturers tout the safety features the concern never fully goes away. A safe technology advocacy group has now voiced concerns regarding Tesla's full self-driving software. The advocacy group Dawn Project claims that Teslas "will indiscriminately mow down children". It has urged the public to pressure Congress to ban Tesla's auto-driving technology.&nbsp;The beta version of Tesla's Full Self Driving (FSD) software apparently struck&nbsp;stationary child-sized mannequins that were placed in its path during a test, according to The Guardian.

Watch |&nbsp;Tesla made up nearly 70% of assisted-driving crashes in last year

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An ad campaign by the group claims that over 100,000 Tesla drivers are already using full self-driving on public roads. Calling it "the worst commercial software" he has ever seen, the Dawn Project's President and CEO Dan O'Dowd urged people to "tell congress to shut it down".&nbsp;

Tesla CEO Elon Musk had previously called the software "amazing" on Twitter, the ad campaign highlights this satirically and shows footage in which Tesla cars can be seen repeatedly hitting child-sized mannequins.

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Our new safety test of <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElonMusk</a>’s Full Self-Driving Teslas discovered that they will indiscriminately mow down children. 
 
Today <a href="https://twitter.com/RealDawnProject?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RealDawnProject</a> launches a nationwide TV ad campaign demanding <a href="https://twitter.com/NHTSAgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NHTSAgov</a> ban Full Self-Driving until <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ElonMusk</a> proves it won’t mow down children. <a href="https://t.co/i5Jtb38GjH">pic.twitter.com/i5Jtb38GjH</a>
— Dan O'Dowd (@RealDanODowd) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealDanODowd/status/1556973572698128385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The ad claims that the test was conducted by a professional driver on a closed course and that the car was fully controlled by the software for "over 100 yards with no driver interference leading upto and through the mannequins".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-is-an-underachiever-billionaires-father-says-he-is-not-proud-of-tesla-chief-502868">‘Elon is an underachiever’: Billionaire’s father says he is not proud of Tesla chief</a>

This is only the latest in a series of claims and investigations into the technology by the world's leading electric car maker.

In June the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said that it was expanding an August 2021 investigation into 830,000 Tesla cars across all four model lines.

The investigation and its expansion were "motivated by an accumulation of crashes in which Tesla vehicles, operating with Autopilot engaged, struck stationary in-road or roadside first responder vehicles 
tending to pre-existing collision scenes".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tesla-cars-with-autopilot-register-273-crashes-in-us-in-less-than-year-488487">Tesla cars with Autopilot register 273 crashes in US in less than year</a>

Another NHTSA investigation is underway to investigate "phantom braking". As per Guardian since 2016 the agency has investigated 30 crashes involving a Tesla, 19 of which were fatal.

The Guardian report also mentions that between July 2021 and May 2022, of some 400 crashes involving driver assist systems, most involved Teslas than other manufacturers combined.

Musk, on the other hand, claimed at a company shareholders meeting earlier this month that the Full Self-Driving has improved greatly and that he expected to make the software available by end of the year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION LIVE HERE:

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When it comes to self-driving cars, the concern about the technology's ability to recognise a pedestrian in its path has always been there. Even when the technology manufacturers tout the safety features the concern never fully goes away.

When it comes to self-driving cars, the concern about the technology's ability to recognise a pedestrian in its path has always been there. Even when the technology manufacturers tout the safety features the concern never fully goes away. A safe technology advocacy group has now voiced concerns regarding Tesla's full self-driving software. The advocacy group Dawn Project claims that Teslas "will indiscriminately mow down children". It has urged the public to pressure Congress to ban Tesla's auto-driving technology. The beta version of Tesla's Full Self Driving (FSD) software apparently struck stationary child-sized mannequins that were placed in its path during a test, according to The Guardian. Watch | Tesla made up nearly 70% of assisted-driving crashes in last year An ad campaign by the group claims that over 100,000 Tesla drivers are already using full self-driving on public roads. Calling it "the worst commercial software" he has ever seen, the Dawn Project's President and CEO Dan O'Dowd urged people to "tell congress to shut it down". Tesla CEO Elon Musk had previously called the software "amazing" on Twitter, the ad campaign highlights this satirically and shows footage in which Tesla cars can be seen repeatedly hitting child-sized mannequins. Our new safety test of @ElonMusk’s Full Self-Driving Teslas discovered that they will indiscriminately mow down children. Today @RealDawnProject launches a nationwide TV ad campaign demanding @NHTSAgov ban Full Self-Driving until @ElonMusk proves it won’t mow down children. pic.twitter.com/i5Jtb38GjH — Dan O'Dowd (@RealDanODowd) August 9, 2022 × The ad claims that the test was conducted by a professional driver on a closed course and that the car was fully controlled by the software for "over 100 yards with no driver interference leading upto and through the mannequins". Also read | ‘Elon is an underachiever’: Billionaire’s father says he is not proud of Tesla chief This is only the latest in a series of claims and investigations into the technology by the world's leading electric car maker. In June the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said that it was expanding an August 2021 investigation into 830,000 Tesla cars across all four model lines. The investigation and its expansion were "motivated by an accumulation of crashes in which Tesla vehicles, operating with Autopilot engaged, struck stationary in-road or roadside first responder vehicles tending to pre-existing collision scenes". Also read | Tesla cars with Autopilot register 273 crashes in US in less than year Another NHTSA investigation is underway to investigate "phantom braking". As per Guardian since 2016 the agency has investigated 30 crashes involving a Tesla, 19 of which were fatal. The Guardian report also mentions that between July 2021 and May 2022, of some 400 crashes involving driver assist systems, most involved Teslas than other manufacturers combined. Musk, on the other hand, claimed at a company shareholders meeting earlier this month that the Full Self-Driving has improved greatly and that he expected to make the software available by end of the year. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION LIVE HERE: You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Are children at risk from Elon Musk's self-driving technology? Group claims software will 'mow' kids down

Every year, from August 1 to 7, the world observes World Breastfeeding Week to promote breastfeeding and enhance infant health. The week was originally observed by about 70 countries, but today 170 nations do so. This day honours the Innocenti Declaration, which was signed in August 1990 by representatives of the WHO, UNICEF, and other organisations to save, encourage, and promote breastfeeding. According to the WHO, breastfed children are healthier and smarter. Furthermore, compared to those who aren't, their odds of being overweight, obese, and susceptible to&nbsp;diabetes are considerably lower, ANI reported.

Step Up for Breastfeeding: Educate and Support is this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/study-reveals-why-humans-have-difficulty-in-having-babies-494970">Study reveals why humans have difficulty in having babies</a>

As per WHO statistics, two out of every three babies are not breastfed. Thus, it becomes more important to mark this day.

As per many, breast milk is the best meal for the newborn since it contains&nbsp;antibodies that help to avoid many common paediatric illnesses. Not only this, as per certain research, breastfeeding lowers the risk of type-2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure in women. Breastfeeding is considered to be a crucial element in a baby’s healthy growth and development.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hunger-claims-children-in-forgotten-corner-of-uganda-488010">Also read |&nbsp;Hunger claims children in forgotten corner of Uganda</a>

According to Dr. Neharika Malhotra, consultant, gynaecology, increased breastfeeding, could prevent 20,000 maternal deaths annually from breast cancer as per the WHO estimates. She further added, "Therefore, we need to promote the importance of more family-friendly policies to protect and support breastfeeding. More would-be mothers should be subjected to counselling so that the practice of breastfeeding should be inculcated right from the beginning."

According to the World Health Assembly, there should be a 50 per cent increase in the rate of exclusive breastfeeding worldwide by 2025.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Every year, from August 1 to 7, the world observes World Breastfeeding Week to promote breastfeeding and enhance infant health. The week was originally observed by about 70 countries, but today 170 nations do so.

Every year, from August 1 to 7, the world observes World Breastfeeding Week to promote breastfeeding and enhance infant health. The week was originally observed by about 70 countries, but today 170 nations do so. This day honours the Innocenti Declaration, which was signed in August 1990 by representatives of the WHO, UNICEF, and other organisations to save, encourage, and promote breastfeeding. According to the WHO, breastfed children are healthier and smarter. Furthermore, compared to those who aren't, their odds of being overweight, obese, and susceptible to diabetes are considerably lower, ANI reported. Step Up for Breastfeeding: Educate and Support is this year’s World Breastfeeding Week theme. Also read | Study reveals why humans have difficulty in having babies As per WHO statistics, two out of every three babies are not breastfed. Thus, it becomes more important to mark this day. As per many, breast milk is the best meal for the newborn since it contains antibodies that help to avoid many common paediatric illnesses. Not only this, as per certain research, breastfeeding lowers the risk of type-2 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure in women. Breastfeeding is considered to be a crucial element in a baby’s healthy growth and development. Also read | Hunger claims children in forgotten corner of Uganda According to Dr. Neharika Malhotra, consultant, gynaecology, increased breastfeeding, could prevent 20,000 maternal deaths annually from breast cancer as per the WHO estimates. She further added, "Therefore, we need to promote the importance of more family-friendly policies to protect and support breastfeeding. More would-be mothers should be subjected to counselling so that the practice of breastfeeding should be inculcated right from the beginning." According to the World Health Assembly, there should be a 50 per cent increase in the rate of exclusive breastfeeding worldwide by 2025. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Breastfeeding Week 2022: ‘Breastfeeding keeps kids healthy, prevents breast cancer’

As per a new study led by the researchers of the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM), elementary school-aged children who get less than nine hours of sleep per night can have significant differences in brain regions responsible for memory, intelligence compared to those who get proper sleep of nine to twelve hours. The study was published in the Lancet Child and Adolescent Health journal. The variations were associated with severe mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and impulsive behaviour amongst those who get little sleep, ANI reported.

Lack of sleep has also been related to problems such as decision making, problem-solving, and memory. However, till now, no research has examined the long-term effects of inadequate sleep on pre-teens’ neurocognitive development.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ai-tools-help-scientists-to-find-hominins-used-fire-800k-years-ago-501881">AI tools help scientists to find hominins used fire 800k years ago</a>

For this story, the researchers analysed information gathered from more than 8,300 kids between the ages of 9 and 10 who participated in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. This study, supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the largest long-term study for the investigation of child health and brain development in the US.

According to Ze Wang, PhD, Professor at UMSOM, "We found that children who had insufficient sleep, less than nine hours per night, at the beginning of the study, had less grey matter or smaller volume in certain areas of the brain responsible for attention, memory, and inhibition control compared to those with healthy sleep habits." He further added, "These differences persisted after two years, a concerning finding that suggests long-term harm for those who do not get enough sleep."

This is one of the first studies to show possible long-term effects of sleep deprivation on young children’s neurocognitive development.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/millions-develop-long-lasting-problems-with-sense-of-smell-or-taste-after-covid-19-study-501475">Millions develop long-lasting problems with sense of smell or taste after COVID-19: Study</a>

Following the publication of the study, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children aged 6 to 12 take the recommended sleep.

The American Academy of Paediatrics advised parents to instill healthy habits in their kids. They advised the parents to prioritise getting adequate sleep to maintain a regular sleep schedule, encourage good physical activity throughout the day, and restrict their screen time an hour before bed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As per a new study led by the researchers of the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM), elementary school-aged children who get less than nine hours of sleep per night can have significant differences in brain regions responsible for memory, intelligence compared to those who get proper sleep of nine to twelve hours.

As per a new study led by the researchers of the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM), elementary school-aged children who get less than nine hours of sleep per night can have significant differences in brain regions responsible for memory, intelligence compared to those who get proper sleep of nine to twelve hours. The study was published in the Lancet Child and Adolescent Health journal. The variations were associated with severe mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and impulsive behaviour amongst those who get little sleep, ANI reported. Lack of sleep has also been related to problems such as decision making, problem-solving, and memory. However, till now, no research has examined the long-term effects of inadequate sleep on pre-teens’ neurocognitive development. Also read | AI tools help scientists to find hominins used fire 800k years ago For this story, the researchers analysed information gathered from more than 8,300 kids between the ages of 9 and 10 who participated in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. This study, supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the largest long-term study for the investigation of child health and brain development in the US. According to Ze Wang, PhD, Professor at UMSOM, "We found that children who had insufficient sleep, less than nine hours per night, at the beginning of the study, had less grey matter or smaller volume in certain areas of the brain responsible for attention, memory, and inhibition control compared to those with healthy sleep habits." He further added, "These differences persisted after two years, a concerning finding that suggests long-term harm for those who do not get enough sleep." This is one of the first studies to show possible long-term effects of sleep deprivation on young children’s neurocognitive development. Also read | Millions develop long-lasting problems with sense of smell or taste after COVID-19: Study Following the publication of the study, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children aged 6 to 12 take the recommended sleep. The American Academy of Paediatrics advised parents to instill healthy habits in their kids. They advised the parents to prioritise getting adequate sleep to maintain a regular sleep schedule, encourage good physical activity throughout the day, and restrict their screen time an hour before bed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sleeping less than nine hours can cause serious mental problems in young children: Study

At the Sloomoo institute, children play with slime. They step on 6 inches of slime with their bare feet. Slime is made with a glue base and lotion.

Children play with slime at the Sloomoo institute in New York

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US: Pizza-delivery man risks his life to save children

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