Children returning to classroom learning are reporting vision problems and difficulty reading the classroom boards. Doctors are reporting an increase in the number of children being prescribed specs. What's happening to young children? Listen in to Palki Sharma.

Gravitas: Why are so many children reporting pink eyes and blurry vision?

Smacking and slapping children have been banned in Wales, the UK. The general public has also been told to inform social services or police if any parent is found doing the same, said a Guardian report. &nbsp;

This kind of physical punishment seems to have been used by the parents till now to bring obedience to children. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/world-down-syndrome-day-2022-what-is-it-the-theme-history-and-quotes-464237" hreflang="en">World Down Syndrome Day 2022: What is it? The theme, history, and quotes</a>

The new law has come into force on Monday. It has been hailed as “historic” by the Labour-led Welsh government and several child protection campaigners. They are also calling for England to follow suit. &nbsp;

But several critics have also expressed concerns that it may also haunt parents while trying to do their best to ensure a bright future for children. It may also lead to malicious allegations by unruly children or neighbours. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mother-shields-baby-daughter-from-shelling-in-kyiv-amid-ukraine-russia-war-464263" hreflang="en">Mother shields baby daughter from shelling in Kyiv amid Ukraine-Russia war</a>

This legislation removes the defence of “reasonable punishment”, which has been in force for a long time in England and Wales. It has made all forms of physical punishment meted out to children like hitting, smacking, slapping and shaking, illegal. The law will also apply to visitors in Wales. &nbsp;

Julie Morgan, deputy minister, social services, who has been campaigning for the change in law for over two decades, said, “Today is a historic moment for children and their rights in Wales as we make physically punishing children a thing of the past.” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;&nbsp;

Smacking and slapping children have been banned in Wales, the UK. The general public has also been told to inform social services or police if any parent is found doing the same, said a Guardian report.

Smacking and slapping children have been banned in Wales, the UK. The general public has also been told to inform social services or police if any parent is found doing the same, said a Guardian report. This kind of physical punishment seems to have been used by the parents till now to bring obedience to children. Also Read | World Down Syndrome Day 2022: What is it? The theme, history, and quotes The new law has come into force on Monday. It has been hailed as “historic” by the Labour-led Welsh government and several child protection campaigners. They are also calling for England to follow suit. But several critics have also expressed concerns that it may also haunt parents while trying to do their best to ensure a bright future for children. It may also lead to malicious allegations by unruly children or neighbours. Also Read: Mother shields baby daughter from shelling in Kyiv amid Ukraine-Russia war This legislation removes the defence of “reasonable punishment”, which has been in force for a long time in England and Wales. It has made all forms of physical punishment meted out to children like hitting, smacking, slapping and shaking, illegal. The law will also apply to visitors in Wales. Julie Morgan, deputy minister, social services, who has been campaigning for the change in law for over two decades, said, “Today is a historic moment for children and their rights in Wales as we make physically punishing children a thing of the past.” (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, hitting children gets banned in UK’s Wales   

Ukraine’s attorney general's office in an official statement said that at least 85 children lost their lives so far. "As a result of the armed aggression of the Russian federation, as of the morning of March 13, 85 children have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Ukraine. Most victims were in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Donetsk, Sumy, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Zhytomyr regions," read the statement.&nbsp;

It further said that on March 11, a civilian car was shot dead while the occupiers were trying to evacuate. "As a result of the shelling, a young child died," read the statement.&nbsp;

As the situation intensifies, a total of 369 educational institutions have been damaged and 57 have been destroyed so far.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, on Monday, Russian forces targeted a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. Reports said at least 35 people were killed in the attack and 130 injured.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-not-for-free-says-zelensky-on-western-arms-sale-to-ukraine-462030">Also read |&nbsp;It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine</a>

According to the Russian defence ministry, it had targeted weapons depots which were reportedly supplied by foreign nations. The Russian ministry claimed it had killed "180 foreign mercenaries".

The attack took place at the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security which is just 25 km from the Polish border. US Secretary of state Anthony Blinken condemned the attack saying the "brutality must stop".

After the attack, President Zelensky warned NATO nations saying that it was "only a matter of time before Russian rockets" would fall on NATO territory while repeating his call for a no-fly zone over Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ukraine’s attorney general's office in an official statement said that at least 85 children lost their lives so far. "As a result of the armed aggression of the Russian federation, as of the morning of March 13, 85 children have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Ukraine.

Ukraine’s attorney general's office in an official statement said that at least 85 children lost their lives so far. "As a result of the armed aggression of the Russian federation, as of the morning of March 13, 85 children have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Ukraine. Most victims were in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Donetsk, Sumy, Kherson, Mykolaiv and Zhytomyr regions," read the statement. It further said that on March 11, a civilian car was shot dead while the occupiers were trying to evacuate. "As a result of the shelling, a young child died," read the statement. As the situation intensifies, a total of 369 educational institutions have been damaged and 57 have been destroyed so far. Meanwhile, on Monday, Russian forces targeted a Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. Reports said at least 35 people were killed in the attack and 130 injured. Also read | It's not for free, says Zelensky on Western arms sale to Ukraine According to the Russian defence ministry, it had targeted weapons depots which were reportedly supplied by foreign nations. The Russian ministry claimed it had killed "180 foreign mercenaries". The attack took place at the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security which is just 25 km from the Polish border. US Secretary of state Anthony Blinken condemned the attack saying the "brutality must stop". After the attack, President Zelensky warned NATO nations saying that it was "only a matter of time before Russian rockets" would fall on NATO territory while repeating his call for a no-fly zone over Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

At least 85 children killed, 100 wounded so far in Ukraine, says attorney general

Former World number one tennis player Andy Murray on Wednesday said that he has decided to donate his earnings from prize money for the rest of the year 2022 to help provide urgent medical supplies and early childhood development kits for children in Ukraine.

The whole child population of Ukraine, 7.5 million children, is now at risk as the conflict against Russia continues to escalate.

With explosions in major cities across the country and thousands of families being forced to flee their homes, UNICEF has called for an immediate ceasefire.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-it-happening-cristiano-ronaldo-to-leave-man-united-and-join-lionel-messi-at-psg-reports-460575">Is it happening? Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United and join Lionel Messi at PSG - Reports</a>

"Over 7.5m children are at risk with the escalating conflict in Ukraine, so I'm working with UNICEF UK to help provide urgent medical supplies and early childhood development kits," Andy Murray wrote on Twitter.

"It's vital education continues, so UNICEF is working to enable access to learning for displaced children, as well as supporting the rehabilitation of damaged schools, together with replacement equipment and furniture."

"I'm going to be donating my earnings from my prize money for the rest of the year, but anyone in the UK can support UNICEF's humanitarian response by donating to our appeal by following this link - https://unicef.uk/am_ukraine Children in Ukraine need peace - now," Murray added.

Andy Murray has also been awarded a wild card for the Miami event.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-legend-shane-warnes-state-memorial-service-to-be-held-at-melbourne-cricket-ground-on-march-30-460555">Australian legend Shane Warne's state memorial service to be held at Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 30</a>

The Brit, who was confirmed as a wild card in Indian Wells earlier this week, is a familiar face in Miami having trained frequently in the city throughout his career.

He is a two-time champion at the tournament, having triumphed in 2009 (d. Djokovic) and 2013 (d. Ferrer).

Murray reached the final of the Sydney Tennis Classic in January but has exited his past four tournaments in the second round and will seek to go deep in both tournaments as he hunts a return to the Top 50 of the ATP Rankings.

Former World number one tennis player Andy Murray on Wednesday said that he has decided to donate his earnings from prize money for the rest of the year 2022 to help provide urgent medical supplies and early childhood development kits for children in Ukraine.

Former World number one tennis player Andy Murray on Wednesday said that he has decided to donate his earnings from prize money for the rest of the year 2022 to help provide urgent medical supplies and early childhood development kits for children in Ukraine. The whole child population of Ukraine, 7.5 million children, is now at risk as the conflict against Russia continues to escalate. With explosions in major cities across the country and thousands of families being forced to flee their homes, UNICEF has called for an immediate ceasefire. ALSO READ: Is it happening? Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United and join Lionel Messi at PSG - Reports "Over 7.5m children are at risk with the escalating conflict in Ukraine, so I'm working with UNICEF UK to help provide urgent medical supplies and early childhood development kits," Andy Murray wrote on Twitter. "It's vital education continues, so UNICEF is working to enable access to learning for displaced children, as well as supporting the rehabilitation of damaged schools, together with replacement equipment and furniture." "I'm going to be donating my earnings from my prize money for the rest of the year, but anyone in the UK can support UNICEF's humanitarian response by donating to our appeal by following this link - https://unicef.uk/am_ukraine Children in Ukraine need peace - now," Murray added. Andy Murray has also been awarded a wild card for the Miami event. ALSO READ: Australian legend Shane Warne's state memorial service to be held at Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 30 The Brit, who was confirmed as a wild card in Indian Wells earlier this week, is a familiar face in Miami having trained frequently in the city throughout his career. He is a two-time champion at the tournament, having triumphed in 2009 (d. Djokovic) and 2013 (d. Ferrer). Murray reached the final of the Sydney Tennis Classic in January but has exited his past four tournaments in the second round and will seek to go deep in both tournaments as he hunts a return to the Top 50 of the ATP Rankings.

Andy Murray pledges to donate earnings from prize money of 2022 to help children in war-torn Ukraine

What's the impact of war on Children? How to help kids cope with war? How to cope with war-related anxiety? Watch this report to know from the expert.

What's the impact of war on Children? How to help kids cope with war? Expert answers

'Vladimir Putin is engaging in barbaric and indiscriminate tactics to target civilians in Ukraine. Will continue to support Kyiv till required, says UK PM Boris Johnson.

Children are being killed in huge numbers, will support Ukraine till the end: PM Boris Johnson

After leaving Afghanistan a year ago, Ajmal Rahmani believed he had found a haven of peace in Ukraine.

This week, he and his family had to flee again -- this time to Poland to the sounds of Russian bombs.

"I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck," Rahmani told AFP shortly after crossing into Poland.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-biggest-plane-mriya-destroyed-by-russia-near-kyiv-457293">World's biggest plane 'Mriya' destroyed by Russia near Kyiv</a>

His seven-year-old daughter Marwa clutched a beige-coloured soft toy dog as Rahmani spoke.

Together with Marwa, his wife Mina and son Omar, 11, the family walked the last 30 kilometres (19 miles) to the crossing on foot because of the gridlock on the Ukrainian side of the border.

After arriving at the Medyka on the Polish side, the family waited with other refugees for a bus that will take them to the nearby city of Przemysl.

Hundreds of thousands of people have fled during the four days of conflict into neighbouring countries, mainly Poland, Hungary and Romania.

While most of the refugees are Ukrainian, among them are also students and migrant workers from further afield, including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India and Nepal.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-ukraines-refugees-europe-opens-doors-that-were-shut-to-others-456918">&nbsp;For Ukraine’s refugees, Europe opens doors that were shut to others</a>

I lost everything

Rahmani, who is in his 40s, said he worked for NATO in Afghanistan for 18 years at Kabul airport.

He decided to leave the country four months before the US withdrawal because he received threats and was so scared he kept his children out of school.

Before that "I had a good life in Afghanistan, I had a private house, I had a private car, I had a good salary," said Rahmani.

"I sold my car, my house, my everything. I lost everything," he said.&nbsp;

But he added: "nothing is better than my love, than my family life".

Rahmani said he struggled to get a visa to leave Afghanistan and decided to go to Ukraine because it was the only country that would take him in.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-new-refugee-crisis-as-russia-attacks-ukraine-thousands-flee-the-chaos-456411">A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos</a>

They set up home in Odessa -- a Black Sea port city.

Four days ago, when Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, they had to leave everything again and travelled the 1,110 kilometres to the border.

Polish authorities said nearly 213,000 people have crossed into Poland from Ukraine since Thursday.

Rahmani and his family, like others without a Polish visa, now have 15 days to get registered, said Tomasz Pietrzak, a lawyer with the Ocalenie (Salvation) Foundation, a charity for migrants.

The timeline is unlikely given the numbers.

"Poland will have to very quickly amend its legislation on this issue," he said.

Watch |&nbsp;UN Refugee Agency: At least 150,000 people flee Ukraine to neighboring countries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/un-refugee-agency-at-least-150000-people-flee-ukraine-to-neighboring-countries-457003/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Rahmani said he was concerned about the future but was encouraged by the warm welcome he received from volunteers and officials assisting the stream of refugees on the Polish side of the border.

"They gave us energy," he said

After leaving Afghanistan a year ago, Ajmal Rahmani believed he had found a haven of peace in Ukraine. This week, he and his family had to flee again -- this time to Poland to the sounds of Russian bombs.

After leaving Afghanistan a year ago, Ajmal Rahmani believed he had found a haven of peace in Ukraine. This week, he and his family had to flee again -- this time to Poland to the sounds of Russian bombs. "I run from one war, come to another country and another war starts. Very bad luck," Rahmani told AFP shortly after crossing into Poland. Also read | World's biggest plane 'Mriya' destroyed by Russia near Kyiv His seven-year-old daughter Marwa clutched a beige-coloured soft toy dog as Rahmani spoke. Together with Marwa, his wife Mina and son Omar, 11, the family walked the last 30 kilometres (19 miles) to the crossing on foot because of the gridlock on the Ukrainian side of the border. After arriving at the Medyka on the Polish side, the family waited with other refugees for a bus that will take them to the nearby city of Przemysl. Hundreds of thousands of people have fled during the four days of conflict into neighbouring countries, mainly Poland, Hungary and Romania. While most of the refugees are Ukrainian, among them are also students and migrant workers from further afield, including Afghanistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, India and Nepal. Also read | For Ukraine’s refugees, Europe opens doors that were shut to others I lost everything Rahmani, who is in his 40s, said he worked for NATO in Afghanistan for 18 years at Kabul airport. He decided to leave the country four months before the US withdrawal because he received threats and was so scared he kept his children out of school. Before that "I had a good life in Afghanistan, I had a private house, I had a private car, I had a good salary," said Rahmani. "I sold my car, my house, my everything. I lost everything," he said. But he added: "nothing is better than my love, than my family life". Rahmani said he struggled to get a visa to leave Afghanistan and decided to go to Ukraine because it was the only country that would take him in. Also read | A new 'refugee crisis': As Russia attacks Ukraine, thousands flee the chaos They set up home in Odessa -- a Black Sea port city. Four days ago, when Russia began its invasion of Ukraine, they had to leave everything again and travelled the 1,110 kilometres to the border. Polish authorities said nearly 213,000 people have crossed into Poland from Ukraine since Thursday. Rahmani and his family, like others without a Polish visa, now have 15 days to get registered, said Tomasz Pietrzak, a lawyer with the Ocalenie (Salvation) Foundation, a charity for migrants. The timeline is unlikely given the numbers. "Poland will have to very quickly amend its legislation on this issue," he said. Watch | UN Refugee Agency: At least 150,000 people flee Ukraine to neighboring countries Rahmani said he was concerned about the future but was encouraged by the warm welcome he received from volunteers and officials assisting the stream of refugees on the Polish side of the border. "They gave us energy," he said

'Another war': Afghan forced to flee again

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger, a local governor told AFP on Sunday.

"There was a mistake with the Nigerian strikes on the border that resulted in victims on our territory in the village of Nachade" on Friday, said Chaibou Aboubacar, governor of the Maradi region, close to&nbsp;Nigeria.&nbsp;

"The victims are 12 children, seven of them dead and five wounded."

Four children died instantly and three others succumbed "to their injuries while being transported to hospital", he said.

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According to the governor, "the parents were attending a ceremony and the children were probably playing when the strikes" hit them.&nbsp;

He believes the planes were targeting "armed bandits" in the border areas, but "missed their target" hitting Nachade instead.&nbsp;

Aboubacar said he visited the children's graves on Saturday as well as the scene of the bombardment.&nbsp;

Several municipalities in the Maradi region are seriously affected by the violence of heavily armed gangs from the Nigerian states of neighbouring Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara.&nbsp;

In 2018, Niamey reinforced military patrols along its border with&nbsp;Nigeria&nbsp;to prevent the incursions of these gangs which carry out assassinations, kidnappings for ransom, attacks on traders and raids on cattle which they then lead into&nbsp;Nigeria.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-200-killed-in-deadly-attacks-by-armed-bandits-in-nigeria-say-residents-443277">Around 200 killed in deadly attacks by armed bandits in Nigeria, say residents</a>

In April 2021, International Crisis Group (ICG) said it feared a third jihadist centre could emerge in this region of Maradi, exploiting the actions of Nigerian gangs and conflicts between local communities.&nbsp;

Niger already faces two jihadist fronts. The Nigerian group Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), its dissident branch, are operating in the south-east while groups affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are at work in the west.&nbsp;

According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Maradi is host to 100,000 Nigerian refugees, who have fled the relentless attacks in their country.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Nigeria destroys more than 1 million AstraZeneca COVID vaccine doses

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nigeria-destroys-more-than-1-million-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-doses-439158/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In mid-February 2015, 36 people were killed &nbsp;in a bombardment by an "unidentified" plane against a mosque in the village of Abadam in the Diffa region (southeast) where Boko Haram jihadists had just made their first attacks against Niger.

&nbsp;

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger, a local governor told AFP on Sunday.

An air strike by the Nigerian army targeting 'bandits' has left seven children dead and five others wounded "by mistake" in the Maradi region of southern Niger, a local governor told AFP on Sunday. "There was a mistake with the Nigerian strikes on the border that resulted in victims on our territory in the village of Nachade" on Friday, said Chaibou Aboubacar, governor of the Maradi region, close to Nigeria. "The victims are 12 children, seven of them dead and five wounded." Four children died instantly and three others succumbed "to their injuries while being transported to hospital", he said. Also read | Nigeria's looted Benin bronzes returned, more than a century later According to the governor, "the parents were attending a ceremony and the children were probably playing when the strikes" hit them. He believes the planes were targeting "armed bandits" in the border areas, but "missed their target" hitting Nachade instead. Aboubacar said he visited the children's graves on Saturday as well as the scene of the bombardment. Several municipalities in the Maradi region are seriously affected by the violence of heavily armed gangs from the Nigerian states of neighbouring Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara. In 2018, Niamey reinforced military patrols along its border with Nigeria to prevent the incursions of these gangs which carry out assassinations, kidnappings for ransom, attacks on traders and raids on cattle which they then lead into Nigeria. Also read | Around 200 killed in deadly attacks by armed bandits in Nigeria, say residents In April 2021, International Crisis Group (ICG) said it feared a third jihadist centre could emerge in this region of Maradi, exploiting the actions of Nigerian gangs and conflicts between local communities. Niger already faces two jihadist fronts. The Nigerian group Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), its dissident branch, are operating in the south-east while groups affiliated with the Islamic State (IS) and Al-Qaeda are at work in the west. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Maradi is host to 100,000 Nigerian refugees, who have fled the relentless attacks in their country. Watch | Nigeria destroys more than 1 million AstraZeneca COVID vaccine doses In mid-February 2015, 36 people were killed in a bombardment by an "unidentified" plane against a mosque in the village of Abadam in the Diffa region (southeast) where Boko Haram jihadists had just made their first attacks against Niger.

Stray Nigeria air strike kills seven children in Niger

Britain is all set to vaccinate young children after expanding its inoculation drive against the COVID-19. Children in age groups 5-11 will get jabs against COVID-19.

UK: Children in age group 5-11 to get jabs against COVID-19

Children just adore dolls. Well, it is well-known but ever wondered about what role does dolls play in a child’s life? &nbsp;&nbsp;

A study has just helped to find the answer. As per it, the children talk more about others’ thoughts and emotions after playing with dolls. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-charless-coronation-camilla-to-get-queen-elizabeth-iis-priceless-1937-koh-i-noor-crown-451144" hreflang="en">At Charles’s coronation, Camilla to get Queen Elizabeth II’s priceless 1937 Koh-i-Noor crown</a>

Not just this, playing imaginary games with dolls can also trigger development of social skills, theory of mind and empathy in the children, the research suggests. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The study was published in the Developmental Science journal. It was funded by the manufacturers of Barbie. It involved 33 boys and girls, who were aged from four to eight. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-us-realtor-puts-four-bedroom-house-on-sale-as-nft-451161" hreflang="en">In a first, US realtor puts four-bedroom house on sale as NFT</a>

Dr Sarah Gerson, lead author of the study, who is also a neuroscientist at Cardiff University, said, “When children create imaginary worlds and role play with dolls, they communicate at first out loud and then internalise the message about others’ thoughts, emotions and feelings.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

“This can have positive long-lasting effects on children, such as driving higher rates of social and emotional processing and building social skills like empathy that can become internalised to build and form lifelong habits,” added Gerson. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Children just adore dolls. Well, it is well-known but ever wondered about what role does dolls play in a child’s life? A study has just helped to find the answer.

Children just adore dolls. Well, it is well-known but ever wondered about what role does dolls play in a child’s life? A study has just helped to find the answer. As per it, the children talk more about others’ thoughts and emotions after playing with dolls. Also Read: At Charles’s coronation, Camilla to get Queen Elizabeth II’s priceless 1937 Koh-i-Noor crown Not just this, playing imaginary games with dolls can also trigger development of social skills, theory of mind and empathy in the children, the research suggests. The study was published in the Developmental Science journal. It was funded by the manufacturers of Barbie. It involved 33 boys and girls, who were aged from four to eight. Also Read: In a first, US realtor puts four-bedroom house on sale as NFT Dr Sarah Gerson, lead author of the study, who is also a neuroscientist at Cardiff University, said, “When children create imaginary worlds and role play with dolls, they communicate at first out loud and then internalise the message about others’ thoughts, emotions and feelings.” “This can have positive long-lasting effects on children, such as driving higher rates of social and emotional processing and building social skills like empathy that can become internalised to build and form lifelong habits,” added Gerson. (With inputs from agencies)

After playing with dolls, children talk more about others’ thoughts, emotions, says study

In what is being deemed as a "life-saving" therapy, children in the UK with a rare and fatal genetic disease will now be able to receive treatment. This came after the NHS struck a deal that allows the treatment using the "most expensive drug."

Called Libmeldy, the treatment has a list price of more than £2.8 million. However, now it can be offered to children after the health service in the UK negotiated a confidential discount.

The treatment is available to a few babies and young children who have metachromatic leukodystrophy. The disorder damages a child’s nervous system and organs.&nbsp;

According to a report by the Guardian, the patients experience a progressive disability that is very similar to that caused by multiple sclerosis.&nbsp;

The symptoms include spasticity, seizures and difficulty talking, swallowing, hearing and seeing.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/just-when-bezos-yacht-demands-unexpected-costs-amazon-prime-raises-price-450426">Also read |&nbsp;Just when Bezos’ yacht demands unexpected costs, Amazon Prime raises price</a>

Amanda Pritchard, NHS England’s chief executive, in a report by The Guardian said, "This revolutionary drug is a life-saver for the babies and young children who suffer from this devastating hereditary disorder and will spare their families untold heartache and grief."

“The deal we have struck is just the latest example of NHS England using its commercial capabilities to make good on the NHS Long term Plan commitment to provide patients with cutting-edge treatments and therapies at a price that is fair to taxpayers.”

The children diagnosed with this condition usually live for five to eight years.&nbsp;

NHS England has said that it will make Libmeldy available from this spring after talks with its manufacturer.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what is being deemed as a "life-saving" therapy, children in the UK with a rare and fatal genetic disease will now be able to receive treatment. This came after the NHS struck a deal that allows the treatment using the "most expensive drug.

In what is being deemed as a "life-saving" therapy, children in the UK with a rare and fatal genetic disease will now be able to receive treatment. This came after the NHS struck a deal that allows the treatment using the "most expensive drug." Called Libmeldy, the treatment has a list price of more than £2.8 million. However, now it can be offered to children after the health service in the UK negotiated a confidential discount. The treatment is available to a few babies and young children who have metachromatic leukodystrophy. The disorder damages a child’s nervous system and organs. According to a report by the Guardian, the patients experience a progressive disability that is very similar to that caused by multiple sclerosis. The symptoms include spasticity, seizures and difficulty talking, swallowing, hearing and seeing. Also read | Just when Bezos’ yacht demands unexpected costs, Amazon Prime raises price Amanda Pritchard, NHS England’s chief executive, in a report by The Guardian said, "This revolutionary drug is a life-saver for the babies and young children who suffer from this devastating hereditary disorder and will spare their families untold heartache and grief." “The deal we have struck is just the latest example of NHS England using its commercial capabilities to make good on the NHS Long term Plan commitment to provide patients with cutting-edge treatments and therapies at a price that is fair to taxpayers.” The children diagnosed with this condition usually live for five to eight years. NHS England has said that it will make Libmeldy available from this spring after talks with its manufacturer. (With inputs from agencies)

'Life-saving' therapy: UK children with a rare disease to now get world’s most expensive drug

The UK has expanded its vaccine eligibility for kids aged 5-11. The authorities will vaccinate vulnerable children against COVID-19.

The UK expands vaccine eligibility for 5-11 age group

The pope has urged the parents to not condemn their children if they are gay. This is said to be the latest outreach to the LGBTQ community.

Pope: Support your children if they are gay, don't condemn them

A retired teacher named Clive Jones has deemed himself as the "world's most prolific donor" as he has been donating his sperm for the last nine years. Clive claims that he has fathered 129 children.&nbsp;

He started donating his sperm when he was 58-year-old. However, he is unable to become an official sperm donor because the banks have an upper donor age limit of 45.&nbsp;

Experts have issued a medical warning regarding his activities citing that all donors and patients should be treated at a licensed UK clinic.&nbsp;

While speaking to Derbyshire Live, he said, "I’m probably the world’s most prolific sperm donor with now being at 138 ‘babies’, well, 129 babies born, nine ongoing pregnancies. I might continue for another few years. Get to 150 anyway."

He further said that he can feel the happiness this brings in as he spoke about a grandmother who messaged him thanking for her granddaughter.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mysterious-radio-waves-from-space-object-are-aliens-calling-448016">Also read |&nbsp;Mysterious radio waves from space object. Are aliens calling?</a>

“I do it for free, though sometimes I ask for a bit of petrol. It’s illegal to charge and doesn’t seem right to take money when I have more than them," Clive said.&nbsp;

He further explained how he links up with families on Facebook. “It all started in May, over nine years ago. For some people, having children is very important as it was for me. I read in some newspapers the plight of some people that can’t have children.

Reading the newspaper, it explained how people were using Facebook to make arrangements."

This is when he thought of helping and immediately posted one of the sites. "I wasn’t expecting any response with me saying how old I was, but I had a lady in Derby contacting me within an hour asking me to help that evening," he explained.&nbsp;

Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority has now issued a medical warning.&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for the authority said, “As the regulator of UK fertility treatment and research we don’t have the powers to stop people from making their own arrangements for sperm donation but we do want to help them get the information and advice they need to make the best informed choices, which is why we always encourage both donors and patients to be treated at a licensed UK clinic."

Clive says that he has met around 20 of the babies.

(With inputs from agencies)

A retired teacher named Clive Jones has deemed himself as the "world's most prolific donor" as he has been donating his sperm for the last nine years. Clive claims that he has fathered 129 children.

A retired teacher named Clive Jones has deemed himself as the "world's most prolific donor" as he has been donating his sperm for the last nine years. Clive claims that he has fathered 129 children. He started donating his sperm when he was 58-year-old. However, he is unable to become an official sperm donor because the banks have an upper donor age limit of 45. Experts have issued a medical warning regarding his activities citing that all donors and patients should be treated at a licensed UK clinic. While speaking to Derbyshire Live, he said, "I’m probably the world’s most prolific sperm donor with now being at 138 ‘babies’, well, 129 babies born, nine ongoing pregnancies. I might continue for another few years. Get to 150 anyway." He further said that he can feel the happiness this brings in as he spoke about a grandmother who messaged him thanking for her granddaughter. Also read | Mysterious radio waves from space object. Are aliens calling? “I do it for free, though sometimes I ask for a bit of petrol. It’s illegal to charge and doesn’t seem right to take money when I have more than them," Clive said. He further explained how he links up with families on Facebook. “It all started in May, over nine years ago. For some people, having children is very important as it was for me. I read in some newspapers the plight of some people that can’t have children. Reading the newspaper, it explained how people were using Facebook to make arrangements." This is when he thought of helping and immediately posted one of the sites. "I wasn’t expecting any response with me saying how old I was, but I had a lady in Derby contacting me within an hour asking me to help that evening," he explained. Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority has now issued a medical warning. A spokeswoman for the authority said, “As the regulator of UK fertility treatment and research we don’t have the powers to stop people from making their own arrangements for sperm donation but we do want to help them get the information and advice they need to make the best informed choices, which is why we always encourage both donors and patients to be treated at a licensed UK clinic." Clive says that he has met around 20 of the babies. (With inputs from agencies)

This man claims to be 'world’s most prolific sperm donor’ with 129 children

In a heinous act, Terrorists have kidnapped around 20 children in Nigeria's Borno state. They have also stormed a village and opened fire on civilians.

Terrorists Kidnap 20 children in Nigeria's Borno state

Virtual classes and virtual extra-curricular activities have come back to bite us. Experts say children as young as 5 are getting addicted to the virtual world. Palki Sharma tells you why this trend is scary.

Gravitas: Children are getting addicted to the virtual world

If a child plays action video games for as little as two hours per week, it is highly likely to improve his or her reading ability, found a study carried out by a team of researchers in Italy and Switzerland. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The study, which was published in ‘Nature Human Behaviour’ journal on Monday, segregated 150 Italian schoolchildren in the age group of eight to 12 into two groups. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-fish-oils-rancid-in-us-is-yours-fresh-445685" hreflang="en">Several fish oils ‘rancid’ in US. Is yours fresh?</a>

One group was told to play an action video game the researchers had created and the other group was asked to play a video game, which was designed to teach children how to code. &nbsp;

The researchers ensured that the children played the games for around two hours per week. At school, they were supervised for a period of six weeks. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/look-up-to-witness-magnificent-wolf-moon-in-us-check-out-the-timing-445636" hreflang="en">‘Look up’ to witness magnificent ‘Wolf Moon’ in US. Check out the timing</a>

It was found that the children, who had played the action game, showed great improvement in the reading speed, reading accuracy and attention to detail. The children, who played the coding game, did not show the same. &nbsp;

Angela Pasqualotto, first author of the study and a PhD student at the Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science at the University of Trento in Italy, said, “We found a seven-fold improvement in attentional control in the children, who played the action video game compared to the other control group.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

If a child plays action video games for as little as two hours per week, it is highly likely to improve his or her reading ability, found a study carried out by a team of researchers in Italy and Switzerland.

If a child plays action video games for as little as two hours per week, it is highly likely to improve his or her reading ability, found a study carried out by a team of researchers in Italy and Switzerland. The study, which was published in ‘Nature Human Behaviour’ journal on Monday, segregated 150 Italian schoolchildren in the age group of eight to 12 into two groups. Also Read: Several fish oils ‘rancid’ in US. Is yours fresh? One group was told to play an action video game the researchers had created and the other group was asked to play a video game, which was designed to teach children how to code. The researchers ensured that the children played the games for around two hours per week. At school, they were supervised for a period of six weeks. Also Read: ‘Look up’ to witness magnificent ‘Wolf Moon’ in US. Check out the timing It was found that the children, who had played the action game, showed great improvement in the reading speed, reading accuracy and attention to detail. The children, who played the coding game, did not show the same. Angela Pasqualotto, first author of the study and a PhD student at the Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science at the University of Trento in Italy, said, “We found a seven-fold improvement in attentional control in the children, who played the action video game compared to the other control group.” (With inputs from agencies)

Playing action video games can help improve reading ability in children, finds study

There are so many ways to do motherhood wrong, or so a mother is told. She can be overbearing or remote. She can smother or neglect. She can mother in such a specifically bad way that she is assigned a bad-mom archetype: stage mother, refrigerator mother, “cool mom.” She can hover like a helicopter mom or bully like a bulldozer mom. But the thing she cannot do — the thing that is so taboo, it rivals actually murdering her offspring — is leave.

The mother who abandons her children haunts our family narratives. She is made into a lurid tabloid figure, an exotic exception to the common deadbeat father. Or she is sketched into the background of a plot, her absence lending a protagonist a propulsive origin story. This figure arouses our ridicule (consider Meryl Streep’s daffy American president in “Don’t Look Up,” who forgets to save her son as she flees the apocalypse) or our pity (see “Parallel Mothers,” where an actress has ditched her daughter for lousy television parts). But lately the vanishing mother has provoked a fresh response: respect.

In Maggie Gyllenhaal’s film “The Lost Daughter,” she is Leda (played, across two decades, by Jessie Buckley and Olivia Colman), a promising translator who deserts her young daughters for several years to pursue her career (and a dalliance with an Auden scholar). In HBO’s “Scenes From a Marriage,” a gender-scrambled remake of Ingmar Bergman’s 1973 miniseries, she is Mira (Jessica Chastain), a Boston tech executive who jets to Tel Aviv, Israel, for an affair disguised as a work project. And in Claire Vaye Watkins’ autofictional novel “I Love You but I’ve Chosen Darkness,” she is also Claire Vaye Watkins, a novelist who leaves her infant to smoke a ton of weed, sleep with a guy who lives in a van and confront her own troubled upbringing.

In each case, her children are not abandoned outright; they are left in the care of fathers and other relatives. When a man leaves in this way, he is unexceptional. When a woman does it, she becomes a monster, or perhaps an antiheroine riding out a dark maternal fantasy. Feminism has supplied women with options, but a choice also represents a foreclosure, and women, because they are people, do not always know what they want. As these protagonists thrash against their own decisions, they also bump up against the limits of that freedom, revealing how women’s choices are rarely socially supported but always thoroughly judged.

A mother losing her children is a nightmare. The title of 'The Lost Daughter'&nbsp;refers in part to such an incident, when a child disappears at the beach. But a mother leaving her children — that’s a daydream, an imagined but repressed alternate life. In the “Sex and the City” reboot “And Just Like That … ,” Miranda — now the mother of a teenager — counsels a professor who is considering having children.

“There are so many nights when I would love to be a judge and go home to an empty house,” she says.

And on Instagram, the airbrushed mirage of mothering is being challenged by displays of raw desperation. The Not Safe for Mom Group, which surfaces confessions of anonymous mothers, pulses with idle threats of role refusal like, “I want to be alone!!! I don’t want to make your lunch!!”

Being alone: That is the mother’s reasonable and functionally impossible dream. Especially recently, when avenues of escape have been sealed off: schools closed, day care centers suspended, offices shuttered, jobs lost or abandoned in crisis. Now the house is never empty, and also you can never leave. During a pandemic, a plucky middle-class gal can still “have it all,” as long as she can manage job and children simultaneously, from the floor of a lawless living room.

Each of our absent mothers has her reasons. Leda’s academic husband has prioritized his career over hers, and this makes her decisions legible, even sympathetic. But in “I Love You but I’ve Chosen Darkness,” Watkins lends her doppelgänger no exculpatory circumstances. Claire has a doula, day care, Obamacare breast pump, tenure-track job, several therapists and the world’s most understanding husband. When she starts sleeping in a hammock on campus, her husband says, “I think it’s cool you’re following your … heart, or … whatever … is happening … out there.” Nothing obvious impedes her from capable mothering, but ​​like Bartleby, the Child-bearer, she would simply prefer not to.

In heaping privileges upon Claire, Watkins suggests that there are burdens of motherhood that cannot be solved with money, lifted by a co-parent or cured by a mental health professional. The trouble is motherhood itself and its ideal of total selfless devotion. Motherhood had turned Claire into a “blank,” a figure who “didn’t seem to think much” and “had trouble completing her sentences.”

As these women discover, their menu of life choices is not so expansive after all. They long to be offered a different position: dad. Claire wants to “behave like a man, a slightly bad one.” As Mira abruptly exits, she assures her husband, “Men do it all the time.”

These women may leave, but they don’t quite get away with it. Mira eventually loses both job and boyfriend and begs for her old life back. Leda’s abandonment becomes a dark secret in a thriller that builds to a violent end. Only Claire is curiously impervious to consequence. She follows her selfish impulses all the way to the desert, where she spends her days crying and masturbating alone in a tent. Then she calls her husband, who flies out to her, happy tot in tow; eventually, Claire claims a life where she can “read and write and nap and teach and soak and smoke” and see her daughter on breaks. By exacting no cosmic punishment on Claire, Watkins refuses to facilitate the reader’s judgment. But she also makes it harder to care.

When I was pregnant, I had a fantasy, too. In it, I was single, childless, still very young somehow and living out an alternate life in a van in Wyoming. Reading “I Love You but I’ve Chosen Darkness” broke the spell. As Claire ripped bongs and circled new sexual partners, she struck me not as a monster or a hero but something perhaps worse: boring. Even as these stories work to uncover motherhood’s complex emotional truths, they indulge their own little fiction: that a mother only becomes interesting when she stops being one. 
&nbsp;

There are so many ways to do motherhood wrong, or so a mother is told. She can be overbearing or remote. She can smother or neglect. She can mother in such a specifically bad way that she is assigned a bad-mom archetype: stage mother, refrigerator mother, “cool mom.

There are so many ways to do motherhood wrong, or so a mother is told. She can be overbearing or remote. She can smother or neglect. She can mother in such a specifically bad way that she is assigned a bad-mom archetype: stage mother, refrigerator mother, “cool mom.” She can hover like a helicopter mom or bully like a bulldozer mom. But the thing she cannot do — the thing that is so taboo, it rivals actually murdering her offspring — is leave. The mother who abandons her children haunts our family narratives. She is made into a lurid tabloid figure, an exotic exception to the common deadbeat father. Or she is sketched into the background of a plot, her absence lending a protagonist a propulsive origin story. This figure arouses our ridicule (consider Meryl Streep’s daffy American president in “Don’t Look Up,” who forgets to save her son as she flees the apocalypse) or our pity (see “Parallel Mothers,” where an actress has ditched her daughter for lousy television parts). But lately the vanishing mother has provoked a fresh response: respect. In Maggie Gyllenhaal’s film “The Lost Daughter,” she is Leda (played, across two decades, by Jessie Buckley and Olivia Colman), a promising translator who deserts her young daughters for several years to pursue her career (and a dalliance with an Auden scholar). In HBO’s “Scenes From a Marriage,” a gender-scrambled remake of Ingmar Bergman’s 1973 miniseries, she is Mira (Jessica Chastain), a Boston tech executive who jets to Tel Aviv, Israel, for an affair disguised as a work project. And in Claire Vaye Watkins’ autofictional novel “I Love You but I’ve Chosen Darkness,” she is also Claire Vaye Watkins, a novelist who leaves her infant to smoke a ton of weed, sleep with a guy who lives in a van and confront her own troubled upbringing. In each case, her children are not abandoned outright; they are left in the care of fathers and other relatives. When a man leaves in this way, he is unexceptional. When a woman does it, she becomes a monster, or perhaps an antiheroine riding out a dark maternal fantasy. Feminism has supplied women with options, but a choice also represents a foreclosure, and women, because they are people, do not always know what they want. As these protagonists thrash against their own decisions, they also bump up against the limits of that freedom, revealing how women’s choices are rarely socially supported but always thoroughly judged. A mother losing her children is a nightmare. The title of 'The Lost Daughter' refers in part to such an incident, when a child disappears at the beach. But a mother leaving her children — that’s a daydream, an imagined but repressed alternate life. In the “Sex and the City” reboot “And Just Like That … ,” Miranda — now the mother of a teenager — counsels a professor who is considering having children. “There are so many nights when I would love to be a judge and go home to an empty house,” she says. And on Instagram, the airbrushed mirage of mothering is being challenged by displays of raw desperation. The Not Safe for Mom Group, which surfaces confessions of anonymous mothers, pulses with idle threats of role refusal like, “I want to be alone!!! I don’t want to make your lunch!!” Being alone: That is the mother’s reasonable and functionally impossible dream. Especially recently, when avenues of escape have been sealed off: schools closed, day care centers suspended, offices shuttered, jobs lost or abandoned in crisis. Now the house is never empty, and also you can never leave. During a pandemic, a plucky middle-class gal can still “have it all,” as long as she can manage job and children simultaneously, from the floor of a lawless living room. Each of our absent mothers has her reasons. Leda’s academic husband has prioritized his career over hers, and this makes her decisions legible, even sympathetic. But in “I Love You but I’ve Chosen Darkness,” Watkins lends her doppelgänger no exculpatory circumstances. Claire has a doula, day care, Obamacare breast pump, tenure-track job, several therapists and the world’s most understanding husband. When she starts sleeping in a hammock on campus, her husband says, “I think it’s cool you’re following your … heart, or … whatever … is happening … out there.” Nothing obvious impedes her from capable mothering, but like Bartleby, the Child-bearer, she would simply prefer not to. In heaping privileges upon Claire, Watkins suggests that there are burdens of motherhood that cannot be solved with money, lifted by a co-parent or cured by a mental health professional. The trouble is motherhood itself and its ideal of total selfless devotion. Motherhood had turned Claire into a “blank,” a figure who “didn’t seem to think much” and “had trouble completing her sentences.” As these women discover, their menu of life choices is not so expansive after all. They long to be offered a different position: dad. Claire wants to “behave like a man, a slightly bad one.” As Mira abruptly exits, she assures her husband, “Men do it all the time.” These women may leave, but they don’t quite get away with it. Mira eventually loses both job and boyfriend and begs for her old life back. Leda’s abandonment becomes a dark secret in a thriller that builds to a violent end. Only Claire is curiously impervious to consequence. She follows her selfish impulses all the way to the desert, where she spends her days crying and masturbating alone in a tent. Then she calls her husband, who flies out to her, happy tot in tow; eventually, Claire claims a life where she can “read and write and nap and teach and soak and smoke” and see her daughter on breaks. By exacting no cosmic punishment on Claire, Watkins refuses to facilitate the reader’s judgment. But she also makes it harder to care. When I was pregnant, I had a fantasy, too. In it, I was single, childless, still very young somehow and living out an alternate life in a van in Wyoming. Reading “I Love You but I’ve Chosen Darkness” broke the spell. As Claire ripped bongs and circled new sexual partners, she struck me not as a monster or a hero but something perhaps worse: boring. Even as these stories work to uncover motherhood’s complex emotional truths, they indulge their own little fiction: that a mother only becomes interesting when she stops being one.

Mommy is going away for a while

Jammu and Kashmir government has started the vaccination drive for the children in the age group of 15 to 18 years. The government plans to inoculate all the&nbsp;0.83 million children in the age group within the next 10 days. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Lt Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha inaugurated the vaccination drive from Jammu while the additional chief secretary of health &amp; medical education department Vivek Bhardwaj kick-started it at Srinagar. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-records-33750-new-covid-cases-in-24-hours-as-omicron-tally-reaches-1700-441908" hreflang="en">India records 33,750 new Covid cases in 24 hours as Omicron tally reaches 1,700</a>

''There are around&nbsp;0.83 million&nbsp;children in this age bracket across the union territory. There will be around 1,645 vaccination centres across Jammu and Kashmir. Our aim remains to vaccinate one lakh children on a daily basis,'' said Vivek Bhardwaj, additional chief secretary, health and medical education department. &nbsp;

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="288c079b-cc76-4b07-abdc-27ab174d80e1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Vaxx%20%281%29.jpg" />

The government also said that they have received 0.28 million&nbsp;fresh stock of vaccines. The vaccination drive would be fast-tracked as the vaccines are available in good numbers. The government also plans to airlift these vaccines to far flung areas, which generally get cut off due to snowfall. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-tourists-ignored-the-omicron-warning-at-baga-beach-in-goa-441911" hreflang="en">Watch: Tourists ignored the Omicron warning at Baga Beach in Goa</a>

''COVID-19 vaccination starts for children aged 15-18 years in J&amp;K. My humble request to the young friends is to get vaccinated. Vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic,'' said LG of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The government has also organised supplementary exams for the students, who missed the main exams, due to being Covid positive.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir government has started the vaccination drive for the children in the age group of 15 to 18 years. The government plans to inoculate all the 0.83 million children in the age group within the next 10 days.

Jammu and Kashmir government has started the vaccination drive for the children in the age group of 15 to 18 years. The government plans to inoculate all the 0.83 million children in the age group within the next 10 days. Lt Governor of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha inaugurated the vaccination drive from Jammu while the additional chief secretary of health & medical education department Vivek Bhardwaj kick-started it at Srinagar. Also Read: India records 33,750 new Covid cases in 24 hours as Omicron tally reaches 1,700 ''There are around 0.83 million children in this age bracket across the union territory. There will be around 1,645 vaccination centres across Jammu and Kashmir. Our aim remains to vaccinate one lakh children on a daily basis,'' said Vivek Bhardwaj, additional chief secretary, health and medical education department. The government also said that they have received 0.28 million fresh stock of vaccines. The vaccination drive would be fast-tracked as the vaccines are available in good numbers. The government also plans to airlift these vaccines to far flung areas, which generally get cut off due to snowfall. Also Read: Watch: Tourists ignored the Omicron warning at Baga Beach in Goa ''COVID-19 vaccination starts for children aged 15-18 years in J&K. My humble request to the young friends is to get vaccinated. Vaccination is a critical tool to help stop the pandemic,'' said LG of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha. The government has also organised supplementary exams for the students, who missed the main exams, due to being Covid positive.

COVID-19 vaccination drive for 0.83 million children in J&K begins

Following social media outcry, authorities in Bangladesh have dropped plans of opening a dedicated beach only for women and women after facing accusations that were they acquiescing to hardline Islamises.

On Thursday officials had opened a section of shoreline on the world’s longest natural sea beach in Cox’s Bazar exclusively for women and children. But hours later announced they were dropping the idea.

The decision to segregate the beach was made following requests from some conservative women, officials had said.

“(The women) requested a dedicated beach section for themselves, because they felt shy and insecure in a crowded place,” Abu Sufian, a senior official in Cox's Bazar, told AFP.

The move to open an exclusive beach also came after gang rape of a woman in Cox's Bazar last week shocked the country, sparking an outcry over women's safety in the area.

But the decision triggered an uproar on social media, with critics accusing the government of paying heed to hardline Islamists who have recently held massive rallies demanding gender segregation in workplaces and factories.

One commentator described the beach segregation as “Talibistan,” referring to the Taliban Islamist group which has in recent months curbed women's rights in Afghanistan.

Cox's Bazar is one of the largest tourist attractions in Bangladesh. Hundreds of thousands visit during festive periods, and the tourism sector has boomed in recent years.

To provide security to the growing number of tourists, authorities have set up a tourism police unit to patrol beach towns.

(With inputs from agencies)

Following social media outcry, authorities in Bangladesh have dropped plans of opening a dedicated beach only for women and women after facing accusations that were they acquiescing to hardline Islamises.

Following social media outcry, authorities in Bangladesh have dropped plans of opening a dedicated beach only for women and women after facing accusations that were they acquiescing to hardline Islamises. On Thursday officials had opened a section of shoreline on the world’s longest natural sea beach in Cox’s Bazar exclusively for women and children. But hours later announced they were dropping the idea. The decision to segregate the beach was made following requests from some conservative women, officials had said. “(The women) requested a dedicated beach section for themselves, because they felt shy and insecure in a crowded place,” Abu Sufian, a senior official in Cox's Bazar, told AFP. The move to open an exclusive beach also came after gang rape of a woman in Cox's Bazar last week shocked the country, sparking an outcry over women's safety in the area. But the decision triggered an uproar on social media, with critics accusing the government of paying heed to hardline Islamists who have recently held massive rallies demanding gender segregation in workplaces and factories. One commentator described the beach segregation as “Talibistan,” referring to the Taliban Islamist group which has in recent months curbed women's rights in Afghanistan. Cox's Bazar is one of the largest tourist attractions in Bangladesh. Hundreds of thousands visit during festive periods, and the tourism sector has boomed in recent years. To provide security to the growing number of tourists, authorities have set up a tourism police unit to patrol beach towns. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh authorities reverse decision to open women-only beach after uproar

Ecuador has become the first country to make Covid vaccines mandatory for children as young as five years. "In Ecuador, vaccination against Covid-19 is declared compulsory," the health ministry said in a statement. This comes in amid growing fears of the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

While speaking to AFP, the ministry said, "Compulsory vaccination applies to persons five years and older."

The South American country has a population of 17.7 million people, out of which, 69 per cent of people have received two doses. Over 900,000 people have received the booster dose.&nbsp;

As per the ministry, people only with medical reasons will be exempted from getting the vaccine.&nbsp;The South American country has so far registered nearly 540,000 cases, with 33,600 fatalities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-europe-begins-covid-19-vaccination-drive-for-children-439120">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: Europe begins COVID-19 vaccination drive for children</a>

The country recorded its first Omicron case a week ago. Since then, the country has made it mandatory for its citizens to get vaccinated to travel to public places, including restaurants, cinemas, shopping malls, and theatres.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, several European countries have started the inoculation drive against coronavirus for children.&nbsp;Authorities in Belgium and France have announced that children aged 5-11 are now eligible for voluntary Covid vaccination in both countries.

“We have observed that 80 per cent of children with severe forms had no comorbidities,” said the French National Authority for Health (HAS).

Vaccinating children “could diminish the virus’s circulation in schools and reduce the risk of classroom closures,” it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador has become the first country to make Covid vaccines mandatory for children as young as five years. "In Ecuador, vaccination against Covid-19 is declared compulsory," the health ministry said in a statement.

Ecuador has become the first country to make Covid vaccines mandatory for children as young as five years. "In Ecuador, vaccination against Covid-19 is declared compulsory," the health ministry said in a statement. This comes in amid growing fears of the Omicron variant. While speaking to AFP, the ministry said, "Compulsory vaccination applies to persons five years and older." The South American country has a population of 17.7 million people, out of which, 69 per cent of people have received two doses. Over 900,000 people have received the booster dose. As per the ministry, people only with medical reasons will be exempted from getting the vaccine. The South American country has so far registered nearly 540,000 cases, with 33,600 fatalities. Also read | Omicron update: Europe begins COVID-19 vaccination drive for children The country recorded its first Omicron case a week ago. Since then, the country has made it mandatory for its citizens to get vaccinated to travel to public places, including restaurants, cinemas, shopping malls, and theatres. Meanwhile, several European countries have started the inoculation drive against coronavirus for children. Authorities in Belgium and France have announced that children aged 5-11 are now eligible for voluntary Covid vaccination in both countries. “We have observed that 80 per cent of children with severe forms had no comorbidities,” said the French National Authority for Health (HAS). Vaccinating children “could diminish the virus’s circulation in schools and reduce the risk of classroom closures,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ecuador becomes first country to mandate Covid vaccines for children from age of 5

Portugal, one of the countries with the highest Covid-19 vaccination rates worldwide, began inoculating over-fives Saturday, and France said it was ready to roll out jabs for them from next week.

Europe is currently battling to rein in the spread of the highly mutated Omicron variant of the coronavirus, believed to be much more infectious, and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has warned the new strain could be dominant in Europe by mid-January.&nbsp;

A number of countries have already opened up their immunisation drives to younger children, even though the EU's health agency has warned that jabs alone will not be sufficient to stop the variant's rise.

In Portugal, where 88.9 percent of the population is vaccinated, more than 60,000 children aged between five and 11 were set to receive their first jab of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine this weekend.&nbsp;

And in France, health minister Olivier Veran said that jabs will start to be administered to children in the same age group from Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">Also read |&nbsp;No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

"If all goes well, we will start vaccination of children on the afternoon of December 22 in specially adapted centres," he told France Inter radio.

But even as children line up to get jabs, the EU health agency ECDC has said measures like mask-wearing, distance working and the prevention of crowds were essential to reduce the burden on healthcare systems in the time available, with vaccines alone taking too long.

The EU's medicines watchdog last month approved the lower-dosage Pfizer-BioNTech shot for five to 11-year-olds, an age group experiencing high coronavirus infection rates across the continent.

Denmark, which has seen a surge in cases attributed to the new Omicron variant, and some Austrian regions already began offering jabs to younger kids in November.

The United States was the first large country to take the plunge and has so far vaccinated more than five million children in the five-to-11 age bracket.&nbsp;

Portugal, one of the countries with the highest Covid-19 vaccination rates worldwide, began inoculating over-fives Saturday, and France said it was ready to roll out jabs for them from next week.

Portugal, one of the countries with the highest Covid-19 vaccination rates worldwide, began inoculating over-fives Saturday, and France said it was ready to roll out jabs for them from next week. Europe is currently battling to rein in the spread of the highly mutated Omicron variant of the coronavirus, believed to be much more infectious, and EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has warned the new strain could be dominant in Europe by mid-January. A number of countries have already opened up their immunisation drives to younger children, even though the EU's health agency has warned that jabs alone will not be sufficient to stop the variant's rise. In Portugal, where 88.9 percent of the population is vaccinated, more than 60,000 children aged between five and 11 were set to receive their first jab of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine this weekend. And in France, health minister Olivier Veran said that jabs will start to be administered to children in the same age group from Wednesday. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study "If all goes well, we will start vaccination of children on the afternoon of December 22 in specially adapted centres," he told France Inter radio. But even as children line up to get jabs, the EU health agency ECDC has said measures like mask-wearing, distance working and the prevention of crowds were essential to reduce the burden on healthcare systems in the time available, with vaccines alone taking too long. The EU's medicines watchdog last month approved the lower-dosage Pfizer-BioNTech shot for five to 11-year-olds, an age group experiencing high coronavirus infection rates across the continent. Denmark, which has seen a surge in cases attributed to the new Omicron variant, and some Austrian regions already began offering jabs to younger kids in November. The United States was the first large country to take the plunge and has so far vaccinated more than five million children in the five-to-11 age bracket.

Portugal, France begin vaccinating younger children

When people younger than 18 record videos and add them to YouTube, the public can no longer watch them. TikTok says it will stop sending app notifications to teenagers at night. Facebook and Google have sharply restricted the ways that advertisers can tailor messages to minors on their sites.

In recent months, internet companies have reworked their apps and policies to try to better protect the safety, privacy and mental health of children. One big reason is Britain.

In September, new guidelines went into effect in the country that may be the world’s most sweeping digital protection aimed at kids. As in the examples above, the British regulations — formally called the Age-Appropriate Design Code or the Children’s Code — are also changing the internet experience for kids and families in the US&nbsp;and other countries.

I’ll explain more about the British protections and why their effects have spread. Children’s advocates are mostly over the moon about it.

One main takeaway is that as US&nbsp;lawmakers are debating updated laws to protect kids online and scolding the head of Instagram, as they did Wednesday, the horse has partly left the barn. Britain is essentially dictating how US&nbsp;internet companies should protect American children.

What’s in this British regulation?

The idea behind the Children’s Code is that companies must build products with the best interests of children in mind, and it makes companies accountable to protect them. The regulations don’t take all control and responsibility from parents and caregivers, but they are a backstop for families.

Among other guidelines, the code requires websites and apps to turn on the highest possible privacy settings by default for people younger than 18 and to turn off features that track children’s locations. Digital services must collect as little information as possible about kids.

Some of the guidelines are vague, partly by design, and that’s one reason the technology industry said it fought the British code. It was adopted last year after a messy process.

It’s too soon to assess how effective the guidelines will be and how they will be enforced. And there are trade-offs. As companies try more aggressive age verification methods, partly in keeping with the British standards and other regulations, it may compromise anonymity online.

But most advocates for children believe the guidelines are a thoughtful approach to remodelling the internet for potentially vulnerable young people. “We definitely are fans,” Common Sense Media CEO James Steyer told me.

Why has this spread globally?

To comply with the British code, Facebook, Google and other companies could have changed features only for kids who live in that country. But practically and philosophically, that might have been a bad choice.

There is growing support among lawmakers and tech executives for different features and safeguards to protect children from sexual predators, inappropriate content, bullying and other risks from being online.

Internet companies know that more regulations like Britain’s are most likely coming, so it may be prudent to act of their own accord. “I think they can see the writing on the wall,” Sonia Livingstone, a professor at the London School of Economics who studies children’s digital rights, told Wired this year.

What is Washington doing?

Members of Congress are deliberating potential updates to the US&nbsp;law for comprehensive online child protection, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The 1990s law compelled most popular online services in the US&nbsp;to bar users who are younger than 13. But we know that many American kids are online with or without their parents’ permission. The question now is what more could or should be done to help make them safer online.

In a video from The New York Times opinion section, my colleagues made the case that Congress should copy the British regulations. Some US&nbsp;lawmakers have essentially proposed that. “Why not here?” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., asked at Wednesday’s hearing, referring to the British code.

The British regulations are effectively here already, but without the force of US&nbsp;law. Steyer said he was frustrated that Congress hadn’t yet passed new child-safety laws but believed they would be coming very soon. “2022 is going to be very important here for tech legislation and regulation,” he said.

When people younger than 18 record videos and add them to YouTube, the public can no longer watch them. TikTok says it will stop sending app notifications to teenagers at night.

When people younger than 18 record videos and add them to YouTube, the public can no longer watch them. TikTok says it will stop sending app notifications to teenagers at night. Facebook and Google have sharply restricted the ways that advertisers can tailor messages to minors on their sites. In recent months, internet companies have reworked their apps and policies to try to better protect the safety, privacy and mental health of children. One big reason is Britain. In September, new guidelines went into effect in the country that may be the world’s most sweeping digital protection aimed at kids. As in the examples above, the British regulations — formally called the Age-Appropriate Design Code or the Children’s Code — are also changing the internet experience for kids and families in the US and other countries. I’ll explain more about the British protections and why their effects have spread. Children’s advocates are mostly over the moon about it. One main takeaway is that as US lawmakers are debating updated laws to protect kids online and scolding the head of Instagram, as they did Wednesday, the horse has partly left the barn. Britain is essentially dictating how US internet companies should protect American children. What’s in this British regulation? The idea behind the Children’s Code is that companies must build products with the best interests of children in mind, and it makes companies accountable to protect them. The regulations don’t take all control and responsibility from parents and caregivers, but they are a backstop for families. Among other guidelines, the code requires websites and apps to turn on the highest possible privacy settings by default for people younger than 18 and to turn off features that track children’s locations. Digital services must collect as little information as possible about kids. Some of the guidelines are vague, partly by design, and that’s one reason the technology industry said it fought the British code. It was adopted last year after a messy process. It’s too soon to assess how effective the guidelines will be and how they will be enforced. And there are trade-offs. As companies try more aggressive age verification methods, partly in keeping with the British standards and other regulations, it may compromise anonymity online. But most advocates for children believe the guidelines are a thoughtful approach to remodelling the internet for potentially vulnerable young people. “We definitely are fans,” Common Sense Media CEO James Steyer told me. Why has this spread globally? To comply with the British code, Facebook, Google and other companies could have changed features only for kids who live in that country. But practically and philosophically, that might have been a bad choice. There is growing support among lawmakers and tech executives for different features and safeguards to protect children from sexual predators, inappropriate content, bullying and other risks from being online. Internet companies know that more regulations like Britain’s are most likely coming, so it may be prudent to act of their own accord. “I think they can see the writing on the wall,” Sonia Livingstone, a professor at the London School of Economics who studies children’s digital rights, told Wired this year. What is Washington doing? Members of Congress are deliberating potential updates to the US law for comprehensive online child protection, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The 1990s law compelled most popular online services in the US to bar users who are younger than 13. But we know that many American kids are online with or without their parents’ permission. The question now is what more could or should be done to help make them safer online. In a video from The New York Times opinion section, my colleagues made the case that Congress should copy the British regulations. Some US lawmakers have essentially proposed that. “Why not here?” Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., asked at Wednesday’s hearing, referring to the British code. The British regulations are effectively here already, but without the force of US law. Steyer said he was frustrated that Congress hadn’t yet passed new child-safety laws but believed they would be coming very soon. “2022 is going to be very important here for tech legislation and regulation,” he said.

Why apps suddenly want to protect kids

Following a gas pipe explosion, a four-storey building in Italy has collapsed. Several people, including children, are feared to be trapped under the rubble.

12 people reportedly missing after a Four-storey building in Italy collapses following gas explosion

A Roman Catholic diocese in Italy's Sicily had to publicly apologise after its bishop told a church group, including children, that Santa Claus doesn’t exist and that the red suit was created by Coca-Cola for publicity.

The remarks of Bishop Antonio Stagliano during a recent religious festival didn’t go well with the parents, who sought an explanation from the diocese,&nbsp;news agency AP reported citing Italian media.

“First of all, on behalf of the bishop, I express my sorrow for this declaration, which has created disappointment in the little ones, and want to specify that Monsignor Stagliano’s intentions were quite different,” Rev Alessandro Paolino, the communications director for the diocese of Noto, wrote on the diocesan Facebook page on Friday.

Bishop Antonio Stagliano didn’t mean the comments, and was trying to underline the true meaning of Christmas and the story of Saint Nicholas, a bishop who gave gifts to the poor and was persecuted by a Roman emperor, Paolino explained.

He emphasised that the intention of the bishop was to convey how the image of Santa Clause is being misconstrued to promote consumerism among people instead of setting a good example: the joy of sharing and generosity.

“We certainly must not demolish the imagination of children, but draw good examples from it that are positive for life,” he continued.

“So, Santa Claus is an effective image to convey the importance of giving, generosity, sharing. But when this image loses its meaning, you see Santa Claus aka consumerism, the desire to own, buy, buy and buy again, then you have to revalue it by giving it a new meaning,” he added.

While several welcomed the bishop’s attempt to focus on the Catholic meaning of Christmas, others blamed Stagliano for interfering with family traditions and celebrations, and crushing the spirits of children, whose early years were disrupted by the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Roman Catholic diocese in Italy's Sicily had to publicly apologise after its bishop told a church group, including children, that Santa Claus doesn’t exist and that the red suit was created by Coca-Cola for publicity.

A Roman Catholic diocese in Italy's Sicily had to publicly apologise after its bishop told a church group, including children, that Santa Claus doesn’t exist and that the red suit was created by Coca-Cola for publicity. The remarks of Bishop Antonio Stagliano during a recent religious festival didn’t go well with the parents, who sought an explanation from the diocese, news agency AP reported citing Italian media. “First of all, on behalf of the bishop, I express my sorrow for this declaration, which has created disappointment in the little ones, and want to specify that Monsignor Stagliano’s intentions were quite different,” Rev Alessandro Paolino, the communications director for the diocese of Noto, wrote on the diocesan Facebook page on Friday. Bishop Antonio Stagliano didn’t mean the comments, and was trying to underline the true meaning of Christmas and the story of Saint Nicholas, a bishop who gave gifts to the poor and was persecuted by a Roman emperor, Paolino explained. He emphasised that the intention of the bishop was to convey how the image of Santa Clause is being misconstrued to promote consumerism among people instead of setting a good example: the joy of sharing and generosity. “We certainly must not demolish the imagination of children, but draw good examples from it that are positive for life,” he continued. “So, Santa Claus is an effective image to convey the importance of giving, generosity, sharing. But when this image loses its meaning, you see Santa Claus aka consumerism, the desire to own, buy, buy and buy again, then you have to revalue it by giving it a new meaning,” he added. While several welcomed the bishop’s attempt to focus on the Catholic meaning of Christmas, others blamed Stagliano for interfering with family traditions and celebrations, and crushing the spirits of children, whose early years were disrupted by the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Italian Bishop’s ‘Santa Claus isn’t real’ remark angers parents, church issues apology

In what can be called a major error, China seems to have undercounted the number of children born from 2000 to 2010 by at least 11.6 million. &nbsp;

The error seems to have happened partly due to its stringent one-child policy. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-asks-us-to-stop-providing-platform-to-taiwans-independence-forces-431638" hreflang="en">China asks US to stop providing platform to Taiwan's independence forces</a>

In the latest statistical yearbook released by the government, the number of children born during the period is 172.5 million. It is well above the 160.9 million recorded in the age group in the 2010 census. &nbsp;

The difference may have been due to a possibility that some parents had failed to register births to avoid punishment if they breached the one-child policy. &nbsp;

In 2016, China had started allowing couples to have a second child. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dimon-says-he-regrets-comment-on-jpmorgan-outlasting-china-communist-party-431834" hreflang="en">Dimon says he regrets comment on JPMorgan outlasting China Communist Party</a>

Around 57% kids registered were girls. The discrepancy may have happened partly as the parents could have been avoiding reporting girls so they are able to try for a boy. &nbsp;

Conducted on November 1, 2010, the census would have also missed births in the last two months of the year. The surveys of the census also don’t include people, who have died or emigrated. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a major error, China seems to have undercounted the number of children born from 2000 to 2010 by at least 11.6 million. The error seems to have happened partly due to its stringent one-child policy.

In what can be called a major error, China seems to have undercounted the number of children born from 2000 to 2010 by at least 11.6 million. The error seems to have happened partly due to its stringent one-child policy. Also Read: China asks US to stop providing platform to Taiwan's independence forces In the latest statistical yearbook released by the government, the number of children born during the period is 172.5 million. It is well above the 160.9 million recorded in the age group in the 2010 census. The difference may have been due to a possibility that some parents had failed to register births to avoid punishment if they breached the one-child policy. In 2016, China had started allowing couples to have a second child. Also Read: Dimon says he regrets comment on JPMorgan outlasting China Communist Party Around 57% kids registered were girls. The discrepancy may have happened partly as the parents could have been avoiding reporting girls so they are able to try for a boy. Conducted on November 1, 2010, the census would have also missed births in the last two months of the year. The surveys of the census also don’t include people, who have died or emigrated. (With inputs from agencies)

Major error? China undercounts nearly 12 million kids in 2010 census

Pfizer's covid-19 vaccine seems to be promising for youngsters. New trial data shows that the jab is providing long-term efficacy in adolescents, here's the report.

Covid Vaccine News: Pfizer vaccine looms promising for youngsters

The US has experienced the biggest decline in births since 1973, and 44 per cent of American adults say they don't want a child because the future appears bleak.

According to Pew Research Center's survey of almost 4,000 adults, 44 per cent of non-parents between 18 and 49 said they simply do not want children, an increase of seven per cent over 2018 (37 per cent).&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/visible-deterioration-of-democracy-us-joins-annual-list-of-backsliding-democracies-431083" hreflang="en">'Visible deterioration of democracy': US joins annual list of 'backsliding' democracies</a>

Parenthood was once seen as the natural progression of life, but now more and more adults are citing a multitude of reasons why they don't want to have kids.&nbsp;

More than 50 per cent of these people say they 'just don't want to have children,' while 43 per cent give other reasons, with medical and finances highest at 19 and 17 per cent, respectively.

Another 9 per cent of respondents cited the 'state of the world' as too bleak and depressing for them to want children. In addition, 2 per cent of respondents said that their partners didn't want children.&nbsp;

74 per cent of parents under 50 said they did not plan on having more children in the future. This number, according to the Pew Research Center, has barely changed since 2018.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-and-her-husband-doug-emhoff-become-first-family-to-hang-mezuzah-on-executive-home-430992">Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff become first family to hang mezuzah on executive home</a>

As in the case of non-parents, parents cited the biggest reason for not having more babies simply because they did not want any more.&nbsp;

The group cited age as the second most important reason. At 23 per cent and 14 per cent, medical and financial reasons also ranked high.

A further 11 per cent said they already had a child, and four per cent believed the world was too bleak.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Contrary to the stereotype that every woman dreams of a house filled with children, both men and women were equally likely to say they would probably not have children.&nbsp;

As of 2020, the average US household size is 2.53, down almost 1 since 1960, when it was 3.33 people per household.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-raining-cash-people-grab-free-money-as-dollars-spill-from-truck-on-to-us-freeway-430994">It's raining cash! People grab free money as dollars spill from truck on to US freeway</a>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus pandemic</a> has also caused a decline in fertility rates in the US due to public health and economic troubles. The US birthrate dropped by eight per cent in the nine months after COVID-19 was declared a national emergency.

According to the CDC, around 3.6 million babies were born in 2020, a four per cent decline - the largest in over 40 years. Twenty-five states also recorded more deaths than births in 2020.

The US has experienced the biggest decline in births since 1973, and 44 per cent of American adults say they don't want a child because the future appears bleak.

The US has experienced the biggest decline in births since 1973, and 44 per cent of American adults say they don't want a child because the future appears bleak. According to Pew Research Center's survey of almost 4,000 adults, 44 per cent of non-parents between 18 and 49 said they simply do not want children, an increase of seven per cent over 2018 (37 per cent). Also read | 'Visible deterioration of democracy': US joins annual list of 'backsliding' democracies Parenthood was once seen as the natural progression of life, but now more and more adults are citing a multitude of reasons why they don't want to have kids. More than 50 per cent of these people say they 'just don't want to have children,' while 43 per cent give other reasons, with medical and finances highest at 19 and 17 per cent, respectively. Another 9 per cent of respondents cited the 'state of the world' as too bleak and depressing for them to want children. In addition, 2 per cent of respondents said that their partners didn't want children. 74 per cent of parents under 50 said they did not plan on having more children in the future. This number, according to the Pew Research Center, has barely changed since 2018. Also read | Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff become first family to hang mezuzah on executive home As in the case of non-parents, parents cited the biggest reason for not having more babies simply because they did not want any more. The group cited age as the second most important reason. At 23 per cent and 14 per cent, medical and financial reasons also ranked high. A further 11 per cent said they already had a child, and four per cent believed the world was too bleak. Contrary to the stereotype that every woman dreams of a house filled with children, both men and women were equally likely to say they would probably not have children. As of 2020, the average US household size is 2.53, down almost 1 since 1960, when it was 3.33 people per household. Also read | It's raining cash! People grab free money as dollars spill from truck on to US freeway The coronavirus pandemic has also caused a decline in fertility rates in the US due to public health and economic troubles. The US birthrate dropped by eight per cent in the nine months after COVID-19 was declared a national emergency. According to the CDC, around 3.6 million babies were born in 2020, a four per cent decline - the largest in over 40 years. Twenty-five states also recorded more deaths than births in 2020.

44% Americans don't want children, say the world is too 'bleak'

A group of US states have announced a joint probe into Meta Platforms, for promoting its social media app Instagram to children despite knowing the harm it can cause to their mental health. "Facebook, now Meta, has failed to protect young people on its platforms and instead chose to ignore or, in some cases, double down on known manipulations that pose a real threat to physical and mental health, exploiting children in the interest of profit," Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey said in a statement.

The investigation involves nine states - New York, Colorado, California, Florida, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Vermont. It aims at examining whether the company has violated consumer protection laws, putting the young generation at risk.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has said that the investigation will be targeting Meta's techniques for increasing the duration of engagement by young users.&nbsp;

The statement read that this investigation comes after "reports revealing that Meta's own internal research shows that using Instagram is associated with increased risks of physical and mental health harms on young people, including depression, eating disorders, and even suicide."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-asks-staff-to-preserve-records-dating-back-to-2016-amid-inquiries-424794">Also read |&nbsp;Facebook asks staff to preserve records dating back to 2016 amid inquiries</a>

As a response, Meta has issued a statement saying that the accusations are false and "demonstrate a deep misunderstanding of the facts."

"We continue to build new features to help people who might be dealing with negative social comparisons or body image issues, including our new 'Take a Break' feature and ways to nudge them towards other types of content," it added.&nbsp;

The probe comes at a time when Facebook is already under scrutiny after Frances Haugen, who is a Facebook data scientist turned whistleblower, appeared before a UK Parliamentary committee and said that Facebook will fuel more violent unrest around the world.&nbsp;

This is because of the way its algorithms are designed to promote divisive content.

"The events we're seeing around the world, things like Myanmar and Ethiopia, those are the opening chapters because engagement-based ranking does two things: one, it prioritises and amplifies divisive and polarising extreme content and two it concentrates it," she said.

With inputs from agencies&nbsp;

A group of US states have announced a joint probe into Meta Platforms, for promoting its social media app Instagram to children despite knowing the harm it can cause to their mental health.

A group of US states have announced a joint probe into Meta Platforms, for promoting its social media app Instagram to children despite knowing the harm it can cause to their mental health. "Facebook, now Meta, has failed to protect young people on its platforms and instead chose to ignore or, in some cases, double down on known manipulations that pose a real threat to physical and mental health, exploiting children in the interest of profit," Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey said in a statement. The investigation involves nine states - New York, Colorado, California, Florida, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Vermont. It aims at examining whether the company has violated consumer protection laws, putting the young generation at risk. California Attorney General Rob Bonta has said that the investigation will be targeting Meta's techniques for increasing the duration of engagement by young users. The statement read that this investigation comes after "reports revealing that Meta's own internal research shows that using Instagram is associated with increased risks of physical and mental health harms on young people, including depression, eating disorders, and even suicide." Also read | Facebook asks staff to preserve records dating back to 2016 amid inquiries As a response, Meta has issued a statement saying that the accusations are false and "demonstrate a deep misunderstanding of the facts." "We continue to build new features to help people who might be dealing with negative social comparisons or body image issues, including our new 'Take a Break' feature and ways to nudge them towards other types of content," it added. The probe comes at a time when Facebook is already under scrutiny after Frances Haugen, who is a Facebook data scientist turned whistleblower, appeared before a UK Parliamentary committee and said that Facebook will fuel more violent unrest around the world. This is because of the way its algorithms are designed to promote divisive content. "The events we're seeing around the world, things like Myanmar and Ethiopia, those are the opening chapters because engagement-based ranking does two things: one, it prioritises and amplifies divisive and polarising extreme content and two it concentrates it," she said. With inputs from agencies

'Real threat': US investigates Instagram's impact on children's mental health

For four days, Maryland police had been searching for a former Baltimore County police officer and a female accomplice who they said had kidnapped the officer’s young daughters and gone on to commit several other crimes, including carjacking and robbery.

On Thursday afternoon, Pennsylvania state troopers attempted to stop a gray Ford Edge near the Maryland border that matched one in which the suspects had been traveling, Elena Russo, a spokesperson for the Maryland State Police, said at a news conference Thursday night.

The vehicle veered off the highway and struck a culvert in Smithsburg, Maryland. A crisis-negotiation team from the Maryland State Police tried to talk to those inside the vehicle, but received no response, she said. A “thick layer of smoke” in the vehicle obscured what was happening inside, Russo said.

Inside the vehicle, the police found two adults and two children who had all been shot in what the police described as an “apparent murder-suicide.” Three of them were dead. One of the children was taken to a hospital and was later pronounced dead, Russo said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-upset-teacher-tells-students-to-jump-off-a-bridge-for-waving-anti-biden-flag-in-us-430402">Also read |&nbsp;Watch: Upset teacher tells students to 'jump off a bridge' for waving anti-Biden flag in US</a>

The adults were identified as Robert Vicosa, 41, of Baltimore, and Tia Bynum, 35, of Baltimore. The names of the children were not released by the police Thursday night, but they are believed to Vicosa’s children, who were 6 and 7.

Maryland State Police said in a statement Thursday night that investigators had found an assault rifle and other firearms in the vehicle.

Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland said in a Twitter post on Thursday night, “We are grieving tonight over the unfathomable loss of two innocent children in what is clearly a horrific tragedy and heinous crime,” he said.

The spate of crimes began Monday, the authorities said, when Vicosa, a former Baltimore County police officer, held a woman captive at gunpoint and fled with his two children, according to the York Area Regional Police Department. The Baltimore Sun identified the woman as Vicosa’s estranged wife and the mother of the two children.

On Wednesday, Vicosa and Bynum, a suspended Baltimore County police sergeant, were believed to have forced a man to drive them to several locations in the Baltimore area before releasing him unharmed.

The Baltimore County Police Department said Thursday that Vicosa’s daughters were present during a robbery.

At a news conference Thursday morning, law enforcement officials pleaded with Vicosa and Bynum to safely return the two children.

Chief Melissa Hyatt of the Baltimore County Police Department asked Vicosa and Bynum to drop the children off at a public safety facility or a safe location where an adult could care for them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/largest-crowdfunding-initiative-us-constitutions-original-copy-auctioned-for-43-million-430468">Also read |&nbsp;'Largest crowdfunding initiative': US Constitution's original copy auctioned for $43 million</a>

“Their well being and safety is everyone’s priority,” Hyatt said. “We know that you are tired. We want to work with you on a safe and peaceful resolution.”

At the news conference, Hyatt added that the involvement of Bynum, who had been assigned to the department’s criminal investigations bureau, was complicating the search.

“I can certainly say that when we have a situation that involves police officers, or former law enforcement officers, our challenges are significant,” she said.

The Baltimore Sun reported that Vicosa had been fired three months ago. It was unclear Thursday night why Bynum had been suspended.

For four days, Maryland police had been searching for a former Baltimore County police officer and a female accomplice who they said had kidnapped the officer’s young daughters and gone on to commit several other crimes, including carjacking and robbery.

For four days, Maryland police had been searching for a former Baltimore County police officer and a female accomplice who they said had kidnapped the officer’s young daughters and gone on to commit several other crimes, including carjacking and robbery. On Thursday afternoon, Pennsylvania state troopers attempted to stop a gray Ford Edge near the Maryland border that matched one in which the suspects had been traveling, Elena Russo, a spokesperson for the Maryland State Police, said at a news conference Thursday night. The vehicle veered off the highway and struck a culvert in Smithsburg, Maryland. A crisis-negotiation team from the Maryland State Police tried to talk to those inside the vehicle, but received no response, she said. A “thick layer of smoke” in the vehicle obscured what was happening inside, Russo said. Inside the vehicle, the police found two adults and two children who had all been shot in what the police described as an “apparent murder-suicide.” Three of them were dead. One of the children was taken to a hospital and was later pronounced dead, Russo said. Also read | Watch: Upset teacher tells students to 'jump off a bridge' for waving anti-Biden flag in US The adults were identified as Robert Vicosa, 41, of Baltimore, and Tia Bynum, 35, of Baltimore. The names of the children were not released by the police Thursday night, but they are believed to Vicosa’s children, who were 6 and 7. Maryland State Police said in a statement Thursday night that investigators had found an assault rifle and other firearms in the vehicle. Gov. Larry Hogan of Maryland said in a Twitter post on Thursday night, “We are grieving tonight over the unfathomable loss of two innocent children in what is clearly a horrific tragedy and heinous crime,” he said. The spate of crimes began Monday, the authorities said, when Vicosa, a former Baltimore County police officer, held a woman captive at gunpoint and fled with his two children, according to the York Area Regional Police Department. The Baltimore Sun identified the woman as Vicosa’s estranged wife and the mother of the two children. On Wednesday, Vicosa and Bynum, a suspended Baltimore County police sergeant, were believed to have forced a man to drive them to several locations in the Baltimore area before releasing him unharmed. The Baltimore County Police Department said Thursday that Vicosa’s daughters were present during a robbery. At a news conference Thursday morning, law enforcement officials pleaded with Vicosa and Bynum to safely return the two children. Chief Melissa Hyatt of the Baltimore County Police Department asked Vicosa and Bynum to drop the children off at a public safety facility or a safe location where an adult could care for them. Also read | 'Largest crowdfunding initiative': US Constitution's original copy auctioned for $43 million “Their well being and safety is everyone’s priority,” Hyatt said. “We know that you are tired. We want to work with you on a safe and peaceful resolution.” At the news conference, Hyatt added that the involvement of Bynum, who had been assigned to the department’s criminal investigations bureau, was complicating the search. “I can certainly say that when we have a situation that involves police officers, or former law enforcement officers, our challenges are significant,” she said. The Baltimore Sun reported that Vicosa had been fired three months ago. It was unclear Thursday night why Bynum had been suspended.

Search for abducted children leads to traffic stop, gunshots and 4 dead

Researchers have now confirmed what basically everyone already knew: Grandmothers are hardwired to care deeply about their grandchildren.

A new study published in the Royal Society B on Tuesday provides the first neural snapshot of intergenerational bonds.

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Scientists at Emory University in the US state of Georgia conducted functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) on 50 grandmothers who were shown pictures of their grandchildren aged between three and 12 years old.

In addition to pictures of their grandchild, adults of the same sex as their grandchild and an unknown adult were shown as controls.

"They recruited areas of the brain that are involved with emotional empathy, and also areas of the brain that are involved in movement and motor simulation and preparation," James Rilling, an anthropologist and neuroscientist who led the study.

"When they're viewing these pictures of their grandchild, they're really feeling what the grandchild is feeling. So when the child is expressing joy, they're feeling that joy. When the children are expressing distress, they're feeling that distress."

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It is thought that the same motor-related regions of the brain light up in the brains of mothers and are related to their instinct to pick up and approach their children.

On the other hand, when the grandmothers viewed pictures of their adult children, there was greater activation of brain regions linked to cognitive empathy, the ability to understand another's feelings without becoming emotionally involved.

In Rilling's view, this might be tied to children's cute appearance, also known as "baby schema" in science, which many young species share to elicit positive caregiving responses from parents.

As opposed to other primates, humans are cooperative breeders, which means mothers get help rearing their children. &nbsp;

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The purpose of this study was to explore what is known as the "grandmother hypothesis" in anthropology.

According to this theory, human females tend to live long lives well beyond their reproductive years in order to benefit their children and grandchildren.&nbsp;

It has been demonstrated that this hypothesis holds true in societies, including the Hadza hunter-gatherers of northern Tanzania, where grandmothers provide nourishment for their grandchildren.

The phenomenon has also been observed in other animals, such as elephants and orcas, both of which unlike most mammals undergo menopause.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers have now confirmed what basically everyone already knew: Grandmothers are hardwired to care deeply about their grandchildren. A new study published in the Royal Society B on Tuesday provides the first neural snapshot of intergenerational bonds.

Researchers have now confirmed what basically everyone already knew: Grandmothers are hardwired to care deeply about their grandchildren. A new study published in the Royal Society B on Tuesday provides the first neural snapshot of intergenerational bonds. Also read | At $514 trillion, China overtakes US in terms of amassing the biggest net worth Scientists at Emory University in the US state of Georgia conducted functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) on 50 grandmothers who were shown pictures of their grandchildren aged between three and 12 years old. In addition to pictures of their grandchild, adults of the same sex as their grandchild and an unknown adult were shown as controls. "They recruited areas of the brain that are involved with emotional empathy, and also areas of the brain that are involved in movement and motor simulation and preparation," James Rilling, an anthropologist and neuroscientist who led the study. "When they're viewing these pictures of their grandchild, they're really feeling what the grandchild is feeling. So when the child is expressing joy, they're feeling that joy. When the children are expressing distress, they're feeling that distress." Also read | Denmark cleans beach, only to dump waste back in water It is thought that the same motor-related regions of the brain light up in the brains of mothers and are related to their instinct to pick up and approach their children. On the other hand, when the grandmothers viewed pictures of their adult children, there was greater activation of brain regions linked to cognitive empathy, the ability to understand another's feelings without becoming emotionally involved. In Rilling's view, this might be tied to children's cute appearance, also known as "baby schema" in science, which many young species share to elicit positive caregiving responses from parents. As opposed to other primates, humans are cooperative breeders, which means mothers get help rearing their children. Also read | 'Disgraceful' act: Life-sized statue of Mahatma Gandhi vandalised in Australia, a day after unveiling The purpose of this study was to explore what is known as the "grandmother hypothesis" in anthropology. According to this theory, human females tend to live long lives well beyond their reproductive years in order to benefit their children and grandchildren. It has been demonstrated that this hypothesis holds true in societies, including the Hadza hunter-gatherers of northern Tanzania, where grandmothers provide nourishment for their grandchildren. The phenomenon has also been observed in other animals, such as elephants and orcas, both of which unlike most mammals undergo menopause. (With inputs from agencies)

The verdict is in: Science says Grannies are good for you

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