It is never too early to start raising kids who will lead a healthy lifestyle. In fact, the sooner you start, the better. You can do many things to help your children develop good habits in this area, and it’s essential to be consistent with them.
Doctor’s Visits
Kids need to see the doctor regularly to get checkups and preventive care. Your kids need a regular pediatric checkup to ensure that they get all their immunization shots in infancy. Pediatricians also do tests at specific intervals from birth, such as checking the child’s hearing to ensure they are developing correctly.
As your kids get older, they should continue to see the doctor for regular checkups and sports physicals. This helps them stay healthy and catch any health problems early on. You must develop in your child a positive association toward doctor’s visits.
Dental Hygiene
Even before your baby’s teeth come out, you must start taking care of them. Wipe your baby’s gums with a damp cloth after feedings. When the teeth first come out, you must bring your child to your family dentist. Henceforth, your child will need a dental checkup every six months. The dentist will apply a protective fluoride coating to the teeth, which will help prevent cavities.
You must start brushing baby teeth with a baby toothbrush and baby-safe toothpaste. As the kids become toddlers, teach them to brush and spit out the toothpaste. Demonstrate how to brush each tooth thoroughly. Teach them how to reach into the back teeth and floss and mouthwash. Use non-stinging mouthwash for kids.
You must instill good dental habits such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily in your child. Kids need to develop good dental hygiene habits early and consider the dentist their friend. They should see the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.
Teach them what types of food can harm their teeth if allowed to stay long in their mouths. Explain to them why it is unhealthy to sip milk or juice for long periods, so they must finish these as fast as possible.
When they eat sticky sweets, remind them to brush their teeth immediately afterward so the candies do not cause tooth decay. Sharing this information will instill awareness of being mindful of what they eat and care for their teeth later.
Nutritious Diet
A healthy diet is vital for kids of all ages. You are what you eat — and this is especially true for kids. A healthy diet is important for kids’ growth and development. It helps them maintain a healthy weight, have strong bones and muscles, and have enough energy to play and learn.
Infants should be breastfed or given formula according to their pediatrician’s recommendations. As kids get older, encourage them to try new foods. This will enable them to appreciate a variety of healthy foods from all the food groups, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy.
The best way to get kids to eat healthy foods is to set a good example. Eat meals together as a family and talk about why certain foods are good for you. Explain to them how certain foods can boost their energy levels, help their concentration, or improve their mood. When they see the connection between what they eat and how they feel, they will be more likely to make healthy choices.
Let them help with meal planning and preparation. This will give them a sense of ownership and make them more likely to eat the foods they have helped prepare. Involve them in food shopping by taking them to the grocery store and letting them choose some items on the list.
Limit sugary drinks and snacks. Too much sugar can lead to obesity, tooth decay, and other health problems. Instead, offer them water, milk, or 100 percent fruit juice. What you serve them will become their comfort food and will set their food choices for life. A healthy diet is a key to maintaining good health.
Physical Activity
Kids need plenty of physical activity in order to stay healthy both physically and mentally. Encourage them to participate in sports or other activities that they enjoy — and make sure they get enough exercise every day.
Encourage kids to be active by making it fun. Plan activities that everyone can enjoy, such as hiking, biking, swimming, playing tag, or jumping rope. Get the whole family involved so that everyone benefits from the exercise.
Make sure they have the right equipment and clothing for their chosen activity. This will help them be more comfortable and enjoy it more. Encourage them to take breaks when they need them. Physical activity should be fun, not a chore.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for kids’ physical and mental health. It helps their bodies grow and repair themselves, and it gives their brains a chance to rest and learn. Most kids need between nine and 12 hours of sleep every day.
Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it as much as possible. This will help their bodies and minds know when it’s time to wind down for the night. Turn off electronics at least 30 minutes before bedtime, so they can relax and get ready for sleep.
Create a comfortable sleep environment by making sure their bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. A TV or other electronics in their room can make it harder to fall asleep.
Raising kids to lead a healthy lifestyle can seem like a daunting task, but it’s worth it in the long run. By following these tips, you can help your children develop good habits that will last them a lifetime. Setting a good example, making healthy foods fun and accessible, and getting them active are all important steps in raising healthy kids.
