Ethics of Meeting Children During Eid: Avoid Touching and Feeding Them Casually
Eid family visits are often characterised by adults’ affection when meeting children. However, health experts caution that expressions of affection should not be done carelessly, particularly regarding physical contact and food provision.
Dr Leonirma Tengguna, M.Sc, Sp.A, CIMI, a paediatric specialist, emphasises that casual touching and kissing habits carry real health risks for children. This is due to children’s immune systems being less developed than those of adults.
“It is acceptable to be fond of other people’s children, but do not kiss, touch, or especially feed them casually. We do not know what germs are on our hands and whether the food is safe for the child to eat,” said Leonirma through a post on her Instagram account @dokteranak_leonirma.
According to Leonirma, hands exposed to germs can become a gateway for disease in children whose immune systems remain vulnerable.
Beyond physical contact, the habit of giving or feeding food to children without permission is also a serious concern. Providing food without parental consent risks triggering allergic reactions. Outsiders often do not know the child’s medical history or dietary restrictions.
Therefore, the doctor, who is a member of the Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI), recommends that anyone wishing to interact further with a child must first seek permission from the child’s parents.
To ensure Eid visits remain safe and healthy, Leonirma shares several practical guidelines. This warning is particularly relevant given Indonesia’s current health situation, with contagious diseases such as super flu and measles spreading.
These diseases are known to spread rapidly without being balanced by Clean and Healthy Living Habits (PHBS). In conclusion, Leonirma offers a brief but firm message to guests who wish to show affection during Eid.
“Just give them Eid money. Caring for children does not require touching them; showing concern does not have to make children ill,” she concluded.