As a parent, there’s nothing more important than making sure your child is happy, healthy and safe. From that magical moment when you hold your tiny bundle in your arms for the first time, your primary objective is to look after that child. In this guide, we’ll explore some simple ways you can boost your child’s health and wellbeing at home.
Exercise
Exercise is beneficial for children and adults and it should form part of every family member’s daily routine. Physical activity is essential for mental wellbeing and physical health. Being active helps to facilitate growth and development but it can also build confidence and reduce stress in children and bring a huge amount of enjoyment. Try to encourage your kids to be active, set a good example and use activities and exercise to spend quality time together. Organize family walks or bike rides (make sure you teach them to follow the bike safety guidance), go to the park for a game of soccer or baseball or hit the beach and try activities like kayaking, swimming and surfing. Encouraging your child to opt for outside play in their free time is also a brilliant idea. Things like playing out on the street with their scooters, roller blades or skipping ropes will all increase their Vitamin D consumption, raise their heart rates and help to improve emotional wellbeing.
Common illnesses
Young children have under-developed immune systems and as such, they are more vulnerable to illnesses and infections. When you become a parent, it’s always beneficial to have an understanding of common illnesses in children and to learn how to spot signs of mild and more severe ailments. Make sure you have a first aid kit at home and supplies to tend to injuries caused by slips and trips if you go out for the day and stock your medicine cupboard with products like paracetamol for infants. If you suspect that your child has symptoms of a serious illness or you’re worried that their condition is deteriorating, don’t hesitate to seek advice. If your child has a fever, they develop a skin rash or they become very lethargic, call your doctor.
Mental health
We tend to focus on healthy eating and physical activity when it comes to talking about health. The truth is that mental wellbeing is equally important. Take steps to prioritize and nourish mental health as a family. Communicate openly, encourage talking and make time for fun. Spend time together, socialize, use activities like creative pursuits to express emotions and let your kids know that they can come to you at any time if they want to talk. Here are some more ways you can support your child with their mental health if you are concerned.
Diet
Healthy eating is hugely beneficial from an early age. Our diets should provide our bodies with essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Aim to ensure your child has a healthy, balanced diet and encourage them to try a wide range of foods. If you have a fussy eater in the family, it’s a great idea to try and hide vegetables and fruit in different dishes or smoothies, soups and homemade sauces and to present your plates in a way that appeals to kids. You could turn a cucumber into a crocodile, for example, or use vegetables to make smiley faces. There are some fabulous ideas and tutorials available online.
If you are unsure your child is getting enough vitamins and minerals from their diet alone then consider giving them additional ones such as Equazen which is great for brain function. Here you can find a list of the recommended vitamins for kids.
Every parent wants their child to be happy and healthy. Take these simple tips on board to boost your child’s health and wellbeing at home but don’t forget to look after yours too and take a mental refresh when needed.