3 Healthy Habits to Teach Your Child this Year

Like it or not, parents won’t always be around to help their children make smart health choices. Eventually, your kid will grow up and face the world on their own. The good news is that you can take action today to help your child develop healthy habits that they’ll carry with them for the rest of their life. Indeed, how you talk about health and wellness now could have an impact on your child’s well-being for decades to come. With that in mind,  today we’ll explore three healthy habits parents should try and teach their children in 2021. Check them out here: 

Daily Exercise

Whether you’re eight, eighteen, or eighty, it’s still important to include regular exercise into your daily routine. Unfortunately, many kids don’t get the exercise they need on a regular basis. As such, parents should make it a point to encourage their kids to get out of the house and play for at least an hour a day. What’s more, you can ensure your kids get the exercise they require by engaging in certain activities with them. This could include playing catch in the backyard, taking the family dog for a walk together around the neighborhood, or even cleaning up around the house.  

Visit Medical Professionals

The sad reality is that many young adults don’t go to the doctor’s office –– even if they feel unwell or need a checkup. Often, this reluctance to speak  with medical professionals can be traced back to childhood unease. Many children understandably feel uncomfortable visiting medical facilities or doctor’s offices. As a parent, it’s your job to help your child overcome any fears they may have of doctors or clinics. Explain to them how devices like a stethoscope or a well plate function and reward them for good behavior at the doctor’s office. Doing this now could empower them to seek medical assistance some day in the future. 

Communication

A person’s overall health includes their emotional and mental wellness in addition to their physical condition. What’s more, a large number of kids have trouble expressing themselves and their needs. Proactive parents should engage with their kids every day and ask them about their feelings and desires. Allow your kids to vent when they need to and provide them with resources and support to address any mental or emotional issues they may be experiencing. Teaching a child how to deal with stress, anger, frustration, and sadness now will prove hugely beneficial in the future. Remember, parents don’t have to have an answer to every problem, but they should be present to provide what help they can. Often, that’s more than enough!