Q What is an Apgar Scale? My cousin's child, born a few days ago, got a score of five and we are concerned that she is not sharing anything. Should we be worried? Will she be retarded? We have not seen the baby yet.
A The Apgar Scale is a system of rating the health of a newborn as soon as the baby is born. The baby's heart rate, strength of breathing, muscle tone, colour and reflexes are checked and a score is given based on how well the baby is functioning overall. A score of five at one minute after birth will require that the baby is given immediate special medical attention. The baby is then carefully observed for the next few hours and days for any problems that may develop. Most babies earn nine or 10 points, at least by five minutes after delivery. The maximum score is 10 and this means the child is doing very well. This score of five does not mean that the child will be retarded. Try to find out how the baby is doing now. You can consult with a paediatrician who will give you more information.
Q I am a very busy mother and I notice that my two-year-old is not even fussy that I am leaving her. It is as if she can do without me. I am concerned that she does not even notice when I come back in. What can I do?
A In counselling we call this behaviour anxious-avoidant attachment. You see, as there is no secure bond between you and your child, the child will rarely cry when separated from you and avoids or ignores you when you return home. The bottom line is that you need to be with your child more often. If your child is not securely attached to you she may not learn well from you. She may even respond with anger when you are trying to help or teach her. Organise your schedule so that you spend more time with your child.
Q My 17-year-old daughter has a summer job working at a restaurant. They are encouraging her to work on, in the evenings, during the September term. The money would be helpful but we are not desperate. Should I allow this to happen?
A If the job will require working many hours that will affect her schoolwork, it would not be wise to do so. You also have to consider how well she is doing in her schoolwork now. The effects of working are different on all types of children. It would not be wise for her to work more than 10 hours per week, especially if this is the year she is sitting her external exams. Sit with her and discuss how it may affect her schoolwork and her social life.
Orlean Brown-Earle, PhD, is a child psychologist and family therapist. Dr Brown-Earle works with children with learning and behaviour problems throughout the island and in the Caribbean. She is an associate professor at Northern Caribbean University. Email questions to helpline@gleanerjm.com or send to Ask the Doc, c/o The Gleaner Company, 7 North Street, Kingston.
