Establishing a healthy lifestyle is critical for children while they are young. A healthy, active lifestyle can help maintain a proper weight and prevent health issues. Let’s talk about some tips and tricks to keep your children healthy as they grow and where you can go in Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL, for outstanding pediatric care.
Tip #1 Exercise Daily
Get your child into an activity he or she really likes. Maybe it’s cycling or playing catch in the front yard. Whatever the choice, be active as a family to control weight, and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, and to relieve stress.
Tip #2 Provide Nutritious Food
That means fresh fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and water–plenty of it to boost overall hydration. Learn to read food labels before you buy, and select high nutritional content. Model good eating habits, too.
Tip #3 Wash Your Hands
Teach your children to do the same. Nothing beats good hand hygiene to limit the spread of cold, flu, and COVID-19 germs. Show your child to use warm water and soap over both hands, lacing the fingers and rubbing gently. After a full 15 seconds (the amount of time to sing “Happy Birthday”), rinse with clear water and dry with a clean towel.
Tip #4 Get Childhood Vaccines as Scheduled
Vaccination is a critical component of primary health care, which works with your body’s natural defense to protect against various diseases. So, ensure your child has all the necessary immunizations, including the seasonal flu vaccine. If your child is behind on vaccines or has not started the process of getting shots, your pediatrician will follow the catch-up schedule from the CDC to bring your youngster current.
Tip #5 Brush Twice a Day
Floss between teeth daily as well. Besides setting this household rule, take your youngster to the dentist for routine cleanings and check-ups twice a year, beginning at age one or whenever primary teeth begin to erupt. Both tooth decay and gum disease are preventable when good dental health habits start early in life.
Tip #6 Set a Bedtime Routine
Make sure your young child gets at least eight hours of sleep every night. Teens require up to 10 hours. Rest is critical to physical and mental health and brain development. So, turn off the TV and other screens at least one hour before bedtime, and let your child slowly unwind into bed.
Tip #7 Do Not Smoke
Teach your child about the dangers of tobacco smoke and vaping, too. If you smoke, see your PCP about ways to quit.
Tip #8 Eat Dinner Together as a Family Whenever Possible
This promotes togetherness and communication, which is critical to your child’s emotional health and well-being.
Tip #9 Encourage Friendships
Know your child’s friends well to avoid bullying and other interpersonal problems kids experience with their peers.
Tip #10 Learn to Relax
We are all stressed these days, and your children are no different. Sports, friends, academics, and more cause anxiety for kids and teens. So, show them how to take some deep breaths, meditate or pray and go for a walk or engage in another activity that relieves the pressures of daily life.
Tip #11 Model Good Life Habits.
Whether you focus on good physical health or the things which build confidence, character, and integrity, remember, your children are watching you. Overall health and well-being are more caught than taught.
Your Pediatricians at Children’s Medical Center
Our clinics serve as medical homes for numerous babies, children, and teens throughout the Tampa area. Let us partner with you in keeping your family healthy.
If it’s time for a routine check-up or if there is an acute medical problem you wish to address, call the location nearest you for a convenient appointment time: (727) 787-6335. Our pediatricians work out of offices in Palm Harbor, Westchase, Trinity, and Lutz, FL.
