The Department of Home Science at ICG-IIS (Deemed to be University) organized an extension activity on ‘Complementary Food and Child Care’ to create awareness about the importance of proper nutrition and childcare practices in early childhood. The extension activity was organized by Dr. Archana kumari, and Dr. Simran Singh, Sr. Assistant Professor, Department of Home Science.  Students from B.Sc (H) Home Science (Semester II, IV & VI), B.A/B.Sc Elective (EFE) Sem II, and M.Sc Home Science (HD) Sem IV participated in the activity. The event aimed to educate caregivers and parents on essential aspects of child health, hygiene, and nutrition to promote holistic child development.

The session commenced with rapport building, where an interactive discussion was held to establish a connection with the participants and understand their concerns regarding child nutrition and care. This initial engagement helped create a comfortable and interactive learning environment, allowing the caregivers to freely express their challenges and experiences. A total of 30 women from the community attended the activity, showing great enthusiasm in learning about effective child care and nutrition practices.

Following this, students conducted a demonstration on infant care, where they provided hands-on guidance on feeding, bathing, and properly wrapping a baby. These practical demonstrations were designed to equip caregivers with essential skills to ensure proper hygiene and comfort for infants. The students also shared valuable insights on the importance and schedule of immunization, emphasizing the role of timely vaccinations in preventing serious childhood diseases. Additionally, they provided guidance on managing common childhood illnesses, such as fever, diarrhea, and respiratory infections, offering practical solutions for early intervention and home care.

The session further continued with a demonstration on complementary feeding, focusing on the importance of introducing nutrient-rich foods to infants at the appropriate age. Students introduced two types of complementary food premixes, explaining their nutritional benefits and how they contribute to a child’s growth and development. They also provided step-by-step instructions on preparing and storing these premixes safely, ensuring that caregivers could replicate these healthy feeding practices at home. The demonstration highlighted cost-effective and locally available ingredients, making the process accessible and sustainable for all participants.

To conclude the activity on a warm and engaging note, refreshments were distributed to all participants, fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. The caregivers expressed appreciation for the knowledge gained and showed keen interest in adopting these practices in their daily lives. The session not only empowered the women with practical childcare skills but also helped them understand the importance of proper nutrition and hygiene in early childhood, ultimately contributing to the overall health and well-being of their children.

Impact of the Activity:

The activity had a significant impact on both the caregivers and the students involved. The caregivers gained practical knowledge about nutrition and childcare, enabling them to make informed decisions about their children's health and well-being. The interactive session played a crucial role in building awareness about the importance of early childhood immunization and hygiene, helping participants understand essential preventive measures. The women actively engaged in discussions, asked questions, and clarified their doubts regarding complementary feeding, ensuring they could confidently apply the knowledge in their daily lives. Additionally, the students benefited by developing practical skills in effectively communicating and demonstrating important health and nutrition concepts to the community. The initiative also reinforced the university’s commitment to social outreach and applied learning, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, and fostering a sense of social responsibility among students.