Amid the advancements in medical science and technology, the role of parents is sometimes overlooked.
On one hand, healthcare professionals may focus more on the medical aspects of a child’s treatment.
Conversely, some parents may not yet fully understand their crucial role in managing their child’s health.
In fact, active parental involvement is a key aspect of the implementation of social pediatrics.
Professor Retno Sutomo, a lecturer in pediatric health, highlighted this during his inaugural speech as a professor at Universitas Gadjah Mada on Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025.
Professor Sutomo was appointed to serve in the field of social pediatrics at UGM’s Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FK-KMK UGM) after delivering his speech titled ‘Strengthening the Role of Parents in Addressing Child Developmental and Behavioral Issues Through a Social Pediatrics Approach.’
He began his speech by explaining the history of pediatric medicine, which developed in the mid-20th century.
Social pediatrics integrates social factors into child healthcare and provides a holistic perspective in addressing child developmental and behavioral problems.
He stated that a child’s development and behavior are influenced by a broader social context. Social pediatrics goes beyond traditional clinical interventions by incorporating family dynamics, community resources, and relevant public policies.
Poor social conditions, such as poverty, parental stress, and limited access to early childhood education, can increase the risk of developmental and behavioral problems in children.
An unfavorable environment in early childhood can have long-term impacts on a child’s cognitive, emotional, and social functioning.
“This is where parents play a crucial role in early interventions for their children’s emotional and cognitive development,” he explained.
Parents can act as co-therapists in intervention programs.
Several studies have shown that integrating speech therapy interventions into daily routines at home, such as during mealtime and playtime, significantly improves language development.
Professor Sutomo mentioned that interventions conducted by both parents and clinicians have been proven to improve communication skills.
Interventions led by parents are more effective.
“Close collaboration between healthcare professionals and parents is necessary for a holistic and comprehensive approach to addressing child developmental and behavioral issues,” he stated.
In closing his speech, Professor Sutomo emphasized that beyond their role in the early detection and management of developmental problems, parents provide the first and smallest environment for their children.
Parenting and instilling good values will serve as a foundation for children’s interaction and adaptation to the broader environment.
“A child’s development and behavior are truly a reflection of what they experience throughout their life journey,” he concluded.
In her welcoming speech, UGM Rector Professor Ova Emilia noted that Professor Sutomo is one of 525 active professors at the university.
Professor Sutomo becomes the 72nd active professor at the faculty level out of 102 professors ever appointed by FK-KMK UGM.
Author: Tiefany
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang
Photographer: Firsto