Children are more prone to viruses and infections like cough, cold and flu because their immune systems are being constantly attacked. Especially, if the immune system of a kid is weaker, doctors say that chances of illnesses are higher due to increased risk of being infected. This keeps parents worried about protecting their kids from seasonal illnesses and flus and keeping them healthy.
Children need more than just good food and plenty of affection to grow healthy and strong. Parents are the first line of defence in terms of identifying health risks and protecting their children from illness. The responsibility falls on parents to keep a close eye out for red flags like frequent coughing, ear infections, or rashes in order to catch potentially fatal illnesses before they become life threatening. To help parents protect their little ones between check-ups, we have listed below some great tips for keeping kids healthy and safe at home until their next visit!
Do not compromise on healthy food
Your kids won’t get upset if they aren’t allowed to eat chocolate cookies and junk food all the time. Let them know that you understand sometimes it may be difficult for them to resist such things but that they can have their favourite snack once or twice a week but certainly no more than that. It is okay to say “no” from time to time and it will prove much more effective rather than giving in every time – your children need to learn self-control in order to develop healthy habits.
Let your kids enjoy what they eat
One of the most important aspects in developing healthy food habits is making sure that your kid enjoys the food that he or she eats. This can sometimes be tricky and many parents like to switch up their child’s meal options, but doctors recommend that this will only lead to them becoming tired of their food as well as developing picky eating habits. Instead, try adding some funny theatre into your meal by changing up what you’re serving every other time around or have your kids help you find fruit or vegetables at a restaurant if they’re out with you.
Breakfast is the most essential meal of the day
Your child should always be directed and encouraged to have a healthy breakfast to begin their day energetically and actively after a good night’s sleep. This will help your little one stay active at school and concentrate on what’s being taught. Eventually, it’ll show a positive effect on your child’s overall performance as their nutrition needs and hunger wouldn’t stand in their way of achieving things.
Hand hygiene is crucial
Hands are unintendedly the strongest germ carriers. Eat your meals without washing your hands and illness will knock at your door. Many times we find that some children have a tendency of falling ill every now and then. Even if their immunity system is weak, improper hand hygiene can also be a detrimental factor here. Washing hands before and after every meal, cleaning nails and cutting them timely and more are some habits you must teach your children for long term good health.
Nothing can replace exercise
It’s never too early to develop healthy habits. Encourage your child to exercise on a daily basis, and allow them the freedom of exploring different forms of physical activity. Regardless of their age, physical activities play an integral role in developing immunity, motor skills and much more in children. It is advisable that from 3-4, you instill a habit of exercising in your children for at least 10-15 minutes everyday. Brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or jumping ropes can also be encouraged as an alternative.
Oral hygiene habits are important
Your child should learn to brush his/her mouth at least twice per day. A good fluoride toothpaste is great for oral health. It’s important that kids avoid eating foods throughout the day (with the exception of meals) and avoid putting food back in their mouths after having brushed their teeth at nighttime. After a certain age, you can teach them to floss right as well.
Other habits like covering mouth before sneezing or coughing, chewing food well before swallowing, not talking with food in the mouth, etc. should also be encouraged.
Despite all the strictness with these habits, do not forget to make your child’s life fun. Remember, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. You certainly don’t want your little one to be dull.
