Raising a Healthy Child

Raising healthy children may seem more complicated in today’s world of video games, fast food, and busy schedules but  small changes can make big differences in your child’s health.  Here are 5 quick tips to a healthier lifestyle:

Get out and play

Kids need to move and be active to be healthy.  Most kids will not turn down an opportunity to play. Throw a frisbee around or play a game of freeze tag or kickball in the yard.  Going out for a leisurely walk or bike ride is good exercise for you and your children as well.  Be a good role model for your children by being active.

Minimize computer and TV time

Kids today spend much more time watching TV or on the computer and playing video games, which is not only unhealthy but can possibly hinder a child’s social development.  When children are limited to the time they spend watching TV, on the computer or playing video games they are more likely to get involved in healthier activities with friends or siblings.

Encourage Healthy Eating

One way to help kids eat healthy is to have plenty of fruits and vegetables in the house. Make sure that right after you purchase your fruits and vegetables you wash, chop and store them; this way they are easily accessible. Fill salad plates with cut-up veggies like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes; include frozen green grapes, apple slices, and sliced bananas with toothpicks.

Sleep

The amount of sleep a child gets contributes to their health. When a child gets the rest they need they wake up feeling happy. The amount of sleep your child needs depends of many things, one of the most important being age.

Experts recommend these general sleep guidelines:

• Newborns: 15 to 16 hours of sleep per day
• Babies up to 1 year: 14 to 15 hours of sleep per day
• 1 to 3 years old: 12 to 14 hours per day
• 3 to 6 years old: 10 to 12 hours per day
• 7 to 12 years old: 10 to 11 hours per day
• 12 to 18 years old: Eight to nine hours per day

Spend Quality Time with Your Kids

Make it a point to spend time just you and your children. Children need their parent’s love and guidance. Spending time talking with your children each day is important to build a connection with them. This relationship between you and your children contributes to their health and happiness, so it is important to make the time.

Tags: Healthy Children, Play, Sleep

Category: Family Health