Making sure that your children are happy and healthy is at the top of your list of priorities. Here are ten easy ways to keep children healthy! Use these tips as a guide to help your children establish healthy habits that will last a lifetime.
Teach them about hygiene
Wash hand well, and wash them often.
Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Using your arm or inside of your elbow rather than your hands can help prevent spreading germs.
Cold and flu viruses enter the body through the nose, eyes, and mouth, so avoid touching your face with your hands. Again, frequent hand washing is a big help here.
Choose active pastimes
Play active games such as tag, capture the flag, or sports instead of watching TV and playing video games. Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day for healthy growth and development.
Take family walks and bike rides
Go for walks or bike rides as a family. This is a great way for the entire family to get some exercise and spend some time together.
Let children help plan healthy snacks
If left entirely up to the kids, snack time might consist of chips, cupcakes, and soda. Put together a list of healthy after school snacks for kids to choose from.
Have children help choose the produce
Bring the kids to the grocery store, and teach them about different fruits and vegetables. Tell them why need need to eat fruits and veggies, and let them choose which ones your family will have for snacks and meals!
Walk to school
Many families live close enough for children to walk to school. Walk with your kids to school in the mornings. It’s great exercise, and a great way to start the day!
Yard work
Get outside, enjoy the fresh air, move around, and get some exercise! There are plenty of outdoor chores that children can do from pulling weeds to raking leaves.
Bed time
Sleep is extremely important for good health. A regular sleep schedule can help ensure your child gets the rest he or she needs each night. Plan a bedtime that allows for enough sleep before the alarm goes off.
This is how much sleep your child needs according to the National Sleep Foundation:
- 3-5 years of age need 10-13 hours of sleep per 24 hours.
- 6-12 years of age need 9-12 hours of sleep per 24 hours.
- 13-18 years of age need 8-10 hours of sleep per 24 hours.
Visit the pediatrician
The pediatrician isn’t there just for when your child gets sick. Doctors help make sure that you’re staying healthy, and they provide guidance for improving health. Schedule your child’s appointment with a pediatrician in Northwest Arkansas today!
Lead by example
Do you exercise, sleep well, eat healthy, and visit the doctor regularly? Be a good role model for your children and help them develop healthy habits!