10 Healthy Habits For Your Kids

Children learn the most from their parents and the adults they grow up around. As a responsible parent, taking care of your child’s health and teaching them to follow healthy habits is very essential.

Kids playing outside. Photo: Pinterest

In commemoration of Children’s Day, here are a few tips to make your kids health conscious. Building this foundation will, in turn, make them healthy adults and also positively influence their friends at home and at school.

1. Don’t skip breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. A breakfast complete with all food groups will help your kid stay energetic throughout the day. Try to find a meal that pairs fruits, proteins, carbohydrates and vegetables. Also, limit the amount of junk food your kids eat.

2. Wash hands always
Hand-washing tops the list when it comes to getting your child into healthy habits. Teach your kids to wash their hands properly with soap. Also show them to rinse well with water after using the bathroom, after playing outdoors and before eating food.

3. Teach toilet manners
Toilet train your kids and teach them how to handle their bathroom efforts. Educate them on the need to wash hands after using the toilet and to flush when done.

Brush your teeth. Photo: Black To My Roots

4. Be active
In this digital world, it is not rare to see kids being stuck to television sets and gadgets. Children and adolescents need a total of 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Inactivity leads to obesity.

To curb this trend, encourage your kids to find joy in outdoor activities and sports. Take a walk, go swimming or ride a bike. Encourage your kids to try group activities, such as team sports or martial arts. Involve your child in active chores around the house and make it fun.

5. Organise family time
Having family time enables you to connect with your kids and catch up on their lives. Sadly, it is something parents miss out on nowadays. Create time to have dinner and talk with your kids without the distraction of TV, phones or computers.

6. Brush twice daily
Dental hygiene is vital. Make your kids realise the importance of brushing their teeth every day. Also, teach your kids not to eat after brushing their teeth at night.

7. Get them to sleep well
Children between the ages of five to 12 need at least 10 hours of sleep at night to maintain their health. Let them go to sleep at the same time every day. A regular sleep pattern can help them to be more attentive in classes, stay in a better mood during the day and build immunity.

Sleeping child. Photo: Pinterest

8. Limit screen time
Have a fixed time for screen activities like watching TV and playing video games. It is necessary to avoid harming their eyes and sleep deprivation.

9. Have regular health check-ups
Preventive care is essential to maintain your child’s health. Select a nearby hospital for regular health checks every year. Also, opt for annual dental check-ups to prevent teeth issues and gum problems.

10. Be a good model
The best way to teach your kids good health habits is to show them by practising good habits yourself.