Children copy their parent’s behavior, so you must show them the behavior you want them to exhibit now and in later life. Your kids will mimic what they see and hear, so use it as an opportunity to educate them on healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some healthy habits that every parent should teach their kids:
Limit Screen Time
A new study has found that a sedentary lifestyle is a leading cause of poor health in children. Spending lots of time sitting on the sofa watching TV or playing electronic games can increase your child’s risk of developing several serious health issues such as obesity and type two diabetes.
Encourage your children to do physical activities such as playing outside or joining team sports. Making sure there is less time for tv is a better method than limiting or withholding it.
Experts recommend that children aged 6 and over should spend at least one hour a day exercising. You can encourage your kids to lead a more active lifestyle by exercising as a family, for example by going for a hike or playing outdoor games in a local park.
Take Care of Your Teeth
Poor oral hygiene can lead to unpleasant dental issues like cavities and gum disease. You should teach your kids to take good care of their teeth from a young age, as this will encourage them to maintain good oral health in later life.
Here are the basics of good dental hygiene:
- Brush your teeth in the morning and evening
- Floss once a day
- Use a fluoride mouthwash
- Limit the number of sugary snacks and drinks in your diet
You should also register your family with a local dental surgery and book your kids in for regular checkups every six months. Experts at asheville dentist recommend scheduling your child’s first dental visit when a couple of teeth are visible or around their first birthday.
Eat a Healthy Breakfast
Research shows that children who eat a healthy breakfast are typically more active and have better overall health when compared to children who don’t eat breakfast. According to kidshealth.org, skipping breakfast can make children feel tired, restless, and irritable.
Help your children refuel for the day ahead by making them a healthy breakfast of oatmeal, whole-grain toast, yogurt with fresh fruit, or a vegetable omelet. Eating breakfast together will encourage your kids to eat a healthy breakfast and it will also help you build and nurture close family bonds.
Read Everyday
Reading helps children learn new vocabulary and develop their literacy skills. This will improve their performance at school and help them feel more confident. Enjoying books together also allows you to spend time with your kids and create some shared interests, as well as encouraging them to do activities that don’t involve screens.
Final Thoughts
Various studies have shown that children who are taught healthy habits tend to make healthier lifestyle choices as adults. Children mimic what they see and hear, so you should act as a positive role model and show them the behavior you want them to copy.
