Raising healthy kids is any parent’s number 1 priority – but what is the best way to do it? Simply telling them how to be healthy and forcing healthy habits on them won’t work, and if you don’t do it right, they could end up with an unhealthy body image or an unhealthy relationship with food. Below, you’ll find some pointers that will help you if you want to be sure you’re raising healthy kids. Take a look:
- Teach Them To Wash Their Hands Properly
Hand washing is such an underrated skill for kids to have. This doesn’t just mean splashing some water on and maybe a little soap if you’re lucky – teach them to go all the way over the tops of their fingers, inbetween, around the thumb, and even the wrist. Proper technique is key and can stop them from transferring germs to certain surfaces and then becoming sick. This has never been more important in today’s climate.
- Get Them Used To Fruits And Vegetables
Getting your kids used to fruit and vegetables might seem difficult at first, but stick with it. Studies show that a child may need to be presented with a food up to 15 times before they decide they like it, so don’t take no for an answer. Don’t force it on them, but don’t make a big deal about them liking it, either. Just offer them new fruits and vegetables regularly, keep giving them ones they have tried in the past to try again, and ensure you always give them something they definitely like so they eat.
- Set An Example
Set an example by looking after yourself. Your kids aren’t going to be learning a strong lesson if you don’t look after yourself! Eat fruit and vegetables, avoid bad habits, take time for yourself, and display all of the behaviours you would like them to develop.
- Eat At Least One Meal A Day With Them
Eating at least one meal a day with your kids can be a super effective way to help them develop. Studies show that kids who eat meals as a family are more likely to do well in school and avoid peer pressure. It doesn’t have to be dinner, either. Just pick one meal the whole family can do and stick to it as often as you can.
- Enforce A Regular Bedtime
A regular bedtime helps your child to stay in touch with their natural rhythms. When they get enough sleep they will have a consistent appetite, do better in school, and feel happier in general. Getting them into this habit now is essential for their future health and happiness.
- Keep Up Regular Healthy Routines
Keeping up regular healthy routines is key. For example, drink a glass of water together when you all get up in the morning, and brush your teeth while listening to a song you like. There are all kinds of ways you can make these habits fun and stick. You might find that kids going to a dentist get really nervous, but if you start them young and ensure the dentist understands their needs, you shouldn’t have a problem.
- Involve Kids When You Make Food
Involve your kids in making food regularly and they will learn so much about different ingredients and creating balanced meals. Don’t force them to finish food they don’t want, or make a big deal out of their eating habits as this can cause a complex and disorders. If you do think something is seriously wrong, then you can contact a doctor or a professional specialising in eating for kids. However, know that if you make a big deal out of your child’s eating habits often enough they will likely continue to do it.
When you make dinner together, or even a healthy dessert, they will be far more likely to sit and enjoy it with you.
- Get Your Activity Levels Up As A Family
Getting your activity levels up as a family offers the perfect way to bond. You can even buy great health trackers for your kids as an incentive for them to stay active! Of course, you don’t want them to become obsessed with things like weight and calories, so this is simply about making sure they get enough movement each day. Try to get them into healthy habits, such as football, dance, and other sports. Go for regular walks together, take the stairs, and do all you can to keep on moving.
How are you making sure you raise healthy kids?
Leave a Reply