As many of you know, I am working on improving my own health. With food choices, exercise and water intake – I am improving my own quality of life. But, I also want my kids to be healthy. A healthy child is happy child! Since my kids are young and at home with me, I am being proactive in their health. As a parent, I believe that it is our responsibility to be a good example of healthy living but also raise them to make good choices. {That isn’t always easy, is it?}
Here are ways that my husband and I are keeping our children healthy:
- Nutrition – We are focusing on proper food intake. My daughter, if I let her, would eat more food than is recommended for an adult. She also loves sweets (just like her mommy!). So as a parent I am providing her and my son with plenty of fruits and vegetables. We are focusing on water too. Instead of purchasing plastic water bottles, we have a pitcher that sits on our counter top and that provides easy access to clean drinking water.
- Exercise – Did you know that children should get at least 1 hour of exercise a day? As a homeschooling parent, I need to be proactive in our kids exercise. Living in Western Washington, we can’t always depend on the weather. Thankfully, we have a YMCA near us as well as a membership to the local Children’s Museum and Zoo. So parents, get outside in the sun with your kids and play!
- Sleep – kids need their sleep and do well on a routine. Let your kids get 8-10 hours of sleep per night.
- Healthy habits – encourage healthy habits like good oral care, sunscreen and hand washing. These are all great habits for kids to have and develop at a young age.
- Love – Most of all, love your kids. A healthy child is a loved child!
What ways are you ensuring you have a healthy child?
I’d love more ideas! This post is in no way conclusive. Share your ideas in the comments below!
Disclosure: The opinions in this article are my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do I have any official relationship with them. I have a relationship with GigaSavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.
cindy b says
These tips are so great. I think its so important to remember to make sure kids are getting their exercise!
LaVonne says
Since my daughter is homeschooled we try to keep her active. This week she started swimming lessons.
April says
Get tips! Love is so important. I also think teaching kids about God and His love for them is important for spiritual health and wellness.
LaVonne says
April, I wholeheartedly agree with this tip. Knowing Christ and letting Him lead in our life has been a strong influence on how we are raising our kids. That spiritual connection is vital as a child and an adult.
Daisy says
I agree with your great tips. I think that another tip is to read to them a lot. ๐
LaVonne says
Daisy, we’ve been working on that one this year especially. It was on our parenting resolution for 2014. (And beyond too!) Our kids both love books. My six year old is learning to read this year and still hasn’t developed a love for reading but loves being read to.
Jessica Cassidy says
These are helpful tips to raise a healthy child. I have to make sure that I show my kids how I love them so so very much. I told them that it is ok to get hurt sometimes. I always teach them to be thankful to their Daddy. I just want them to enjoy life and more appreciative of the the things they have ๐
LaVonne says
Living with gratitude is so important! That is a great tip!
Ashley M says
I agree with ALL of the above! Healthy habits start early. ๐