📍 Welcome back to the Ananya Child Development Center podcast! I'm your host, Madhavi Adimulam, founder and director of Ananya CDC. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Somashekar Naraganti, a leading child psychologist in Hyderabad. Dr. Somashekar works at Rainbow Hospital in Banjara Hills and has helped thousands of families in Hyderabad.
Dr. Somashekar, thank you so much for taking an hour out of your busy schedule to speak with us. We're excited to have this open conversation with you about supporting children with developmental delays and challenges, including autism and ADHD.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Thank you, ma'am.
1. Dr. Somashekar’s Journey into Child Psychology
Madhavi Adimulam: Dr. Somashekar, how did you choose child psychology as your career?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: My journey began with a deep interest in psychology. I pursued my graduation, Masters, and recently completed my Ph.D. in the field. During my Masters, my dissertation focused on autism, which ignited my passion for working with children on the spectrum. I gained valuable experience working at Niloufer Hospital and then transitioned to Rainbow Hospital. I’ve been dedicated to this profession for the past 10-12 years.
Madhavi Adimulam: It sounds like your dissertation really sparked your passion for this specific area of psychology. Over those 10-12 years, have you noticed any changes in the number of autism cases you're seeing?
2. Trends in Autism Cases
Madhavi Adimulam: Have you seen more cases of autism in the last 5-10 years? Has the trend changed?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: The increase has been significant. When I was working on my dissertation, I struggled to find enough participants. I waited almost three months to gather 100 samples. Now, we see 8-10 new cases every day.
Madhavi Adimulam: Wow, 8-10 cases per day in your clinic? That's a dramatic increase.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, it's quite a shift. In the past, we might have seen 50-60 cases per month. Now, it’s easily double or triple that number.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's alarming to see such a rapid rise in cases. What factors do you think are contributing to this increase?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Several factors could be playing a role. One is the lack of play-based activities in a child's early years. Also, both parents are often working, so there's less dedicated time for interaction and engagement with the child. These factors, along with increased awareness and earlier diagnoses, are likely contributing to the rise in autism cases.
Madhavi Adimulam: You mentioned earlier diagnoses. It seems like parents are becoming more aware of developmental milestones and are seeking help sooner.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Absolutely. In the past, parents often waited until a child was two years old or even older before seeking help. Now, we're seeing families come in when their child is 11 or 12 months old, concerned about missed milestones.
Madhavi Adimulam: That's encouraging to hear. Early intervention is so crucial. We often have parents contacting Ananya, worried because their baby isn’t responding to their name or hasn't spoken any words by nine or ten months. It’s wonderful to see that awareness growing.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, and parents are becoming more proactive. They want to understand where their child is developmentally, whether they fall into the mild, moderate, or severe range. This understanding helps them seek appropriate support and therapies.
Madhavi Adimulam: It sounds like parents are really taking charge of their child’s development. Out of the cases you see, what’s the most common severity level?
3. Commonly Encountered Cases
Madhavi Adimulam: Of the cases you encounter, do you typically see more mild, moderate, or severe cases of autism?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: The majority of cases, about 90%, fall within the mild to moderate range.
Madhavi Adimulam: That’s helpful information for parents to know. Now, when you’re assessing a child for autism, what tools do you use?
4. Tools for Screening Autism
Madhavi Adimulam: What are some of the tools you use to screen for autism?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: I primarily use the CARS (Childhood Autism Rating Scale) test. I also incorporate developmental assessments and the Indian Scale of Autism (ISA) to get a comprehensive understanding of the child's abilities and challenges.
Madhavi Adimulam: It sounds like a multifaceted approach to assessment, which is so important for getting a clear picture. Now, I imagine that delivering a diagnosis, whether it's autism or another developmental delay, can be a very sensitive moment for families.
5. Parental Reactions to Diagnosis
Madhavi Adimulam: How do parents typically react when you share the news that their child might have autism or a developmental delay?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Reactions vary, but there’s often an initial resistance to the diagnosis. Parents might be worried about the label itself or concerned about the potential stigma surrounding these conditions. Some might question the need for intervention, especially if the child is young, hoping that the issues will resolve on their own.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, there’s a lot of fear and uncertainty that comes with these diagnoses. Even at Ananya, we see families who, even at three or four years old, are reluctant to accept the label of autism. It’s a common struggle.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, it is. My approach is to focus on the potential benefits of intervention rather than dwelling on the label. If there’s a developmental delay, I discuss the potential benefits of therapies like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or behavioral therapy. I avoid using technical jargon and focus on providing clear and practical guidance to the parents.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, you avoid using the term “autism” directly with parents?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Generally, yes. I prefer to focus on the specific challenges the child is facing and the potential solutions. I consider the report confidential and use it primarily to communicate with other therapists or professionals involved in the child’s care. My priority is to empower the parents to take action and support their child's development.
Madhavi Adimulam: That’s a sensitive and empowering approach. Now, while autism is a common developmental concern, what other types of delays do you encounter in your clinic?
6. Beyond Autism: Other Developmental Delays
Madhavi Adimulam: What other types of developmental delays do you see in your practice?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: We see a variety of delays, including those affecting language, social skills, motor skills, and cognitive abilities. We might encounter children with Down syndrome, but often, the autism is a secondary diagnosis in these cases. We also see delays in basic developmental milestones, such as neck holding, sitting, standing, walking, and speech.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, you’re seeing delays across a wide spectrum of developmental areas. How do you typically approach those cases where a child isn't meeting milestones?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: We conduct a comprehensive assessment to understand the specific challenges the child is facing. Based on their age and the nature of the delay, we determine the appropriate interventions and support services, which might range from early intervention programs to more specialized therapies.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's about creating an individualized plan to address those unique needs. Now, we know that ADHD is another common condition, and like autism, it seems to be on the rise.
7. The Rise of ADHD
Madhavi Adimulam: You also mentioned seeing more cases of ADHD now. Why do you think that is?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: There isn't a definitive answer, but several factors might be contributing, including lifestyle changes, environmental influences, and increased awareness.
Madhavi Adimulam: And how do you typically approach ADHD in your practice?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: We always begin with a thorough assessment, including an IQ test. If the child's IQ is within the normal range, we recommend behavior modification techniques as the first line of intervention. We might refer families to nearby centers or behavioral therapists who can provide specialized training and support. In many cases, behavior modification can significantly reduce ADHD symptoms.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, you focus on behavioral strategies first, and medication is considered later if needed?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, generally. Medication might be considered for children over five years old, especially if they are struggling significantly in school or other settings, but we typically explore behavioral interventions first.
Madhavi Adimulam: And what types of complaints do parents typically have about their children with ADHD? When should they be concerned enough to seek professional help?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Common concerns include difficulty sitting still, problems completing homework, inattentiveness in class, and disruptive behavior. If these behaviors are significantly impacting the child's learning, social interactions, or family life, it's important to seek an evaluation.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, it's not just about the presence of symptoms, but the impact those symptoms have on the child's overall functioning. Now, you mentioned medication as an option for some children with ADHD.
8. The Role of Medication in ADHD
Madhavi Adimulam: Do you find that medication is effective for most children?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Medication can be helpful for children with moderate to severe ADHD, but it’s not always necessary, especially for those in the mild range. We always consider the individual child's needs and preferences.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, it’s a personalized approach, just like with other therapies. And what about learning disabilities? Do you see many children with those challenges?
Help Your Child Thrive
9. Learning Disabilities
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, learning disabilities are quite common. We see children who struggle with reading, writing, and math.
Madhavi Adimulam: And what are some of the common signs that parents or teachers might notice?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Difficulty holding a pencil or pen, struggling to form letters, problems with reading comprehension, or difficulty grasping mathematical concepts are common indicators.
Madhavi Adimulam: It seems like the school environment often brings these challenges to light.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, teachers often observe these difficulties first and recommend that parents seek an evaluation. In some cases, the school counselor can provide initial support.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, it's a collaborative effort between parents, teachers, and specialists. And what about genetic disorders? Do you see many children with Down syndrome or other genetic conditions?
10. Genetic Disorders and Their Impact
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: We do see some cases, but the primary management of genetic disorders often falls under the purview of geneticists. They assess the child's cognitive abilities, provide a prognosis, and recommend specific interventions. Our role as psychologists is to offer emotional support, guidance, and strategies to help parents cope with the challenges of raising a child with a genetic condition.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, it's about providing support and empowerment to families.
11. Supporting Parents of Children with Special Needs
Madhavi Adimulam: When a child receives a diagnosis of a condition like autism, ADHD, or a developmental delay, it can be life-altering for families. How do you support parents as they grapple with this news and the challenges ahead?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: It’s a difficult journey for parents. There’s often a sense of shock, grief, and uncertainty. Many struggle with feelings of guilt, blame, and fear. They worry about their child's future and their ability to provide the necessary support.
I’ve seen parents who are determined to do whatever it takes to help their child, and their commitment often leads to significant progress. Other parents might struggle with acceptance or understanding the condition.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, parental attitude and acceptance play a crucial role in the child's progress.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Absolutely. A parent’s confidence and determination can significantly influence the child’s development. They need to believe in their child's potential and be willing to invest the time and effort in therapy and support.
Madhavi Adimulam: I’ve witnessed that at Ananya as well. When parents fully embrace the journey, we see incredible transformations in their children. Unfortunately, some parents struggle to maintain that positive attitude over time. It’s a long and challenging road.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Yes, it is. It’s important to acknowledge those challenges and provide ongoing support to parents. They need reassurance, encouragement, and practical strategies to cope with the ups and downs of this journey. Sometimes, they need a gentle reminder to refocus on their child’s strengths and celebrate small victories.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's about empowering parents to be their child's best advocates. So, how often do you typically recommend reassessments for children with developmental delays or autism?
12. The Importance of Reassessments
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: It depends on the child's age and needs. For younger children, those under two years old, I recommend reassessments every three to four months. For older children, evaluations every six to seven months are usually sufficient. Sometimes, in cases where progress is slower, or if a child is struggling with specific challenges, more frequent assessments might be necessary.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, the frequency varies based on the individual child. We often see parents who cling to that initial assessment report, thinking it defines their child’s future. But it's crucial to understand that children are constantly growing and developing, and those assessments need to be updated to reflect those changes.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Exactly. I recommend reassessments at least every six to eight months, even if the child seems to be progressing well. It’s important for parents to understand their child’s current developmental level and to adjust their expectations and interventions accordingly.
Madhavi Adimulam: Absolutely! It’s about staying informed and making those adjustments along the way. Now, we've talked a lot about parents and therapists, but what role do grandparents play in supporting a child with special needs?
13. The Role of Grandparents
Madhavi Adimulam: What do you think is the role of grandparents in a family where a child has special needs?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Grandparents can play a vital role, especially in traditional Indian families. They often have more time to spend with the child, can offer emotional support to the parents, and can help with the child's care. But it's important to strike a balance.
Madhavi Adimulam: What do you mean by "strike a balance"?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Grandparents can sometimes be overprotective or indulgent, which can hinder a child's development. It’s crucial for parents to maintain their role as primary caregivers and to set clear boundaries with grandparents regarding discipline and expectations.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, a healthy balance is key. We often see parents sending their child to live with grandparents in another city or even another country for extended periods, hoping that the change in environment will somehow “fix” the child’s challenges. What are your thoughts on this practice?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: I believe it’s generally best for a child to be raised by their parents. The parent-child bond is crucial for healthy development. While grandparents can provide valuable support, they shouldn’t replace the role of the parents.
Madhavi Adimulam: That’s a strong message. It’s about recognizing the importance of that parent-child connection. Now, we’ve talked a lot about therapies and interventions, but what about the simple things, like outdoor play?
14. The Importance of Outdoor Play
Madhavi Adimulam: These days, children spend a lot of time indoors, glued to screens. What are your thoughts on the importance of outdoor play for children’s development?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Outdoor play is essential! Humans are meant to be connected to nature. Think back to your own childhood, playing outside, cycling, getting muddy, and exploring. Those experiences shaped our development.
Sadly, parenting styles have changed. Many parents today are overprotective and keep their children indoors, worried about germs, injuries, or simply the inconvenience of outdoor play. This over-sanitization and lack of exposure to nature can actually hinder a child’s immune system development and their overall well-being.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's ironic, isn't it? Our parents weren't so concerned about germs, and we seem to have survived just fine! In fact, our immune systems are probably stronger for it.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Exactly! We need to shift our perspective and recognize the value of outdoor play. It's not just about physical health; it's about mental and emotional well-being too.
Madhavi Adimulam: Many parents we see at Ananya express concerns about their child getting dirty or injured during outdoor play. They’ve become accustomed to a more controlled, sanitized environment. But those are the very experiences that help children learn, grow, and develop resilience.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Absolutely! Getting dirty, facing challenges, and experiencing the natural world are all essential parts of a healthy childhood. Now, another important aspect of a child's well-being is nutrition.
15. The Role of Nutrition
Madhavi Adimulam: What do you think is the role of nutrition in a child’s development? What kind of foods should children eat?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: While there’s not always definitive evidence, I believe that a natural, healthy, balanced diet is crucial for children. This is especially important for those with autism or ADHD. Processed sugars, bakery items, and sugary drinks should be limited. Natural, organic foods, ideally grown without pesticides, are always a better choice.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, homemade meals are preferable?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Definitely! I completely agree.
Madhavi Adimulam: Many parents today have greater financial resources and tend to purchase more expensive, imported foods, thinking they are better for their children. Do you think that’s always true? Is expensive food necessarily better food?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Not necessarily. Natural, home-cooked meals are always preferable to expensive, processed foods, no matter where they come from.
Madhavi Adimulam: I was just reading an article about the importance of preparing food at home with love. It talked about how food is not just fuel, but it carries energy and intention. When you cook for your family, you’re putting love and care into that meal.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: That’s a beautiful way to look at it, Madhavi. It’s true! The energy we put into our food matters. Food prepared in a restaurant or ordered online can’t replicate that same intention and connection. Especially for children, it’s important that they experience food as a source of nourishment and love, not just something to quickly consume.
Madhavi Adimulam: It’s about creating those positive associations with food and family time. Now, let’s shift our focus back to some of those conditions we were talking about earlier, like autism and ADHD.
16. Understanding the Causes of Autism and ADHD
Madhavi Adimulam: What do you think are the root causes of these conditions?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Unfortunately, there are no easy answers. We still don't have a definitive understanding of what causes autism or ADHD. There’s no single bacteria, virus, or infection that we can point to.
Madhavi Adimulam: So, the causes remain a mystery?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: To some extent, yes. Current research suggests that both genetics and environment likely play a role. And over the past 20-25 years, we’ve seen a significant increase in screen time, which might be a contributing factor to the rise in these conditions.
Madhavi Adimulam: You mean excessive exposure to TVs, mobile phones, tablets, and laptops?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Exactly. Some even refer to it as “virtual autism,” though it’s not a formal medical term. We’re seeing children who spend 3-5 hours a day glued to screens, and their development, especially their speech, can be affected. They're not getting the same opportunities for social interaction, language learning, and real-world exploration.
Madhavi Adimulam: It’s definitely a concern. At Ananya, we’ve seen the impact of screen addiction firsthand. Parents are struggling to manage their children’s screen time, and it’s affecting family dynamics, communication, and a child's overall development.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: It's a multifaceted issue, and there are multiple layers to consider. Parenting styles have changed, lifestyles have become more fast-paced, and screen time has become the default for entertainment and distraction.
Madhavi Adimulam: It's a stark contrast to the childhoods many of us experienced, where siblings and friends played together outdoors, explored their neighborhoods, and engaged in real-world interactions.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Exactly. Now, children are exposed to a constant stream of information and stimulation from screens, which can be overwhelming and confusing for their developing brains. They're learning languages from screens, not from real-life interactions, which can impact their ability to communicate effectively.
Madhavi Adimulam: I recently met a child who could speak multiple languages but couldn't communicate effectively in his native language, Telugu. He had been exposed to so many languages through screens that his language development had become fragmented.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: It's a complex situation. He had a high IQ, around 80-85, so his cognitive abilities were intact. The challenge was with expression and communication.
Madhavi Adimulam: It highlights the limitations of screen-based learning and the importance of real-life interaction for language development. Now, along with screen time, another crucial aspect of a child's well-being is sleep.
17. The Importance of Sleep
Madhavi Adimulam: How many hours of sleep should children get each day?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Newborns need around 16-18 hours of sleep. As they get older, the amount of sleep gradually decreases. Toddlers need about 10-12 hours, and preschoolers require around 8-9 hours of quality sleep.
Madhavi Adimulam: What are your thoughts on setting a consistent bedtime routine for children?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: A consistent routine is beneficial for regulating a child's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Madhavi Adimulam: We often see children who have irregular sleep patterns, going to bed late and waking up late. This can disrupt their mood, behavior, and learning. Do you think parenting styles play a role in this?
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: Absolutely. Parenting styles and family dynamics can significantly influence a child's sleep habits. Many parents today are more relaxed about bedtimes and don't enforce consistent routines. But children thrive on structure and predictability. They need dedicated time for play, interaction with their parents, and, of course, adequate sleep.
Madhavi Adimulam: It’s about setting those boundaries and making sleep a priority. Now, Dr. Somashekar, before we wrap up, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for this insightful conversation.
18. Thanking the Guest
Madhavi Adimulam: Thank you so much for your time and your expertise. I’ve learned so much, and I'm sure our listeners have too. You've provided valuable insights on child development, autism, ADHD, the role of nutrition, sleep, and the importance of grandparents. We’ve covered a wide range of topics that are relevant to parents in Hyderabad.
Dr. Somasekar Naraganti: It was my pleasure, Madhavi.
Madhavi Adimulam: And for those seeking support for their child's development, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, autism support, and help with ADHD and other challenges, please contact Ananya Child Development Center. We offer personalized therapies and assessments at our multiple locations across Hyderabad. You can find us online at www.asap.org.in or call us at 98485 13192.
📍 Thank you for joining us today! We'll be back soon with more expert discussions to help families navigate the world of child development. Until then, keep learning, keep supporting, and keep celebrating your child's unique journey.
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