- Encourage imaginative play and exercise. Lack of physical activity is a major cause of obesity on kids. Encourage kids to go out and play with their siblings and friends over the holiday. It is during playtime, that they will be able create healthy friendships with other children as well as learn new skills from others.
- Wash hands frequently. Emphasize on washing hands before meals, after using the bathroom, after playing with pets, and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose. Children need constant reminders, but all those gentle nudges toward the sink are worth it. Hand washing is the best way to prevent the spread of germs.
- Keep kids indoors when they’re sick. When the kids are having a cold or flu, keep them indoors and give them plenty fluids as well as encourage them to rest. Taking it easy for a few days will boost their chances of a quick recovery. It will also limit the probability of the infection spreading.
- Offer healthy meals and snacks. A healthy diet is the bedrock of good health. Provide kids with plenty of fruits and veggies that have been thoroughly cleaned. Avoid refined sugar, instead use fresh fruit and natural sweeteners such as honey in moderation to enhance taste. Processed foods, artificial sweeteners, hydrogenated fats and artificial flavors are also discouraged.
- Sleep. Help children to maintain a good sleep schedule. Kids who are sleep-deprived are more susceptible to getting infections thus it is important to insist on enough rest. It will also help to communicate the importance of sleep to kids so that they do not feel as if they are being punished. Sleep is necessary when our body restores and repairs itself.
- Hydrate. Water is life. Children are very active and keeping them hydrated should be a priority for every parent or guardian. Remind kids to take water regularly as they engage in playtime this holiday to keep dehydration at bay.
