3 of the Best Health Practices for Kids
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Children rely on the adults in their lives to teach them how to be and stay healthy. Often, healthy habits are formed from a young age. Usually, the kids want to be just like their parents or other caregivers, so they copy the actions they see being done by the adults in their lives. It is important to be a good example by practicing healthy habits yourself and by encouraging your kids to take care of themselves daily. Here are excellent health practices to start implementing today if you do not already do each of these.
Dental hygiene is essential, even when the child does not yet have teeth. From birth, a warm cloth or finger covering can be used to wash the baby’s gums after feedings. A very soft-bristled brush is acceptable as teeth begin to poke through the gums. Training toothpaste can be used for babies while encouraging them to practice spitting out the toothpaste. Parents can brush their baby and toddlers’ teeth for them with a tiny amount of toothpaste, roughly the size of a grain of rice. A pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste should be used for children who are at least three years old. Using The Best Toothpaste for Healthy Gums and instilling great habits from a young age can help to make this healthy task less of a hassle. Get the children in the habit of brushing their teeth at least twice per day for two minutes each time. There are fun timers, such as the Disney timer, that encourage children to brush for the full two minutes. Always supervise during this task to ensure safety and that they are getting all of their teeth. Anticavity mouthwash can be used for children old enough to know to spit it out instead of swallowing the solution. Additionally, you should incorporate dental visits into their routine at a young age according to this professional dentist in Avon Lake. Although a good dental routine can help prevent some dental issues, there are still some that only dental experts can diagnose.
Children should see their pediatrician regularly for wellness checks to measure growth and development. Recommended vaccination schedules should be followed. In between these checkups, encourage healthy habits such as regular hand-washing, wearing sunscreen and hats when playing outside, bathing or showering daily and ways to stay safe. Implementing a sleeping schedule that allows your child to get enough quality sleep each night is also crucial. Diet plays a significant role in overall health. Sometimes it can be easier to give in to get your child to eat whatever they will eat. However, establish the importance of eating healthy while pointing out all of the benefits. Perhaps having your child help out in the kitchen will get them to try more of the foods. Create healthy, well-balanced meals with lean proteins, fruits and vegetables. Limit sugary and processed foods and beverages. Milk and water are good drink choices for children. Also consider essential oils such as Doterra On Guard or Thieves by Young Living Oils or Child Essentials
With new technology, video games and television shows, kids are tempted to sit on the couch and stare at a screen. Increased screen time is not suitable for developing minds and should be limited. Find ways to discourage screen time while promoting activities that keep your kids thinking and moving. Experts recommend that older children and teens get at least one hour of moderate exercise each day. These should be physical activities that get their heart beating faster and build up their muscles and bones. Monkey bars, hopscotch, jumping rope, soccer and playing tag are all great examples. Exercising together is a great way for families to bond, too. You can all take a family walk together after dinner each night. Another suggestion is a bike ride as a group. Pick-up games of basketball or tennis are other great ways to stay active and fit as a family. You are responsible for the well-being of your child. Well-child checkup exams at the pediatrician and regular dental cleanings are a vital part of your child’s overall health. Drinking plenty of water, getting enough quality sleep each night, staying active and eating nutritious meals and brushing teeth twice a day are excellent habits to instill at a young age and practice daily. Your children are most likely to develop healthy habits when you set a good example by leading a healthy lifestyle. |
