As a parent, your top priority is keeping your children healthy and safe. But with chaotic schedules and the countless germs kids come in contact with, this can feel overwhelming. Here are five practices that can help you keep your children healthy.

1. Establish a Bedtime Routine

According to the CDC, 2.2% of children ages five to 11 are in fair or poor health. Adequate sleep is crucial for children's growth, focus, and overall well-being. Having a consistent bedtime routine signals to your child's body that it's time to unwind. This may include taking a bath, brushing teeth, reading a story, and lights out at the same time each night. The consistency helps kids fall asleep more easily.

2. Offer Nutritious Meals

Fuel your children's growing bodies and minds with nutritious foods. Offer veggies, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy at every meal. Let kids help prep meals to get them invested in trying new healthy foods. Limit sugar and junk food in the house and as treats. Providing nourishing meals gives children energy and teaches them long-term healthy eating habits.

3. Encourage Physical Activity

The CDC recommends kids get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. Exercise boosts physical and mental health. Let your kids choose fun activities like sports, dancing, or biking to get their hearts pumping. Take family walks or bike rides after dinner to encourage more movement. Active playtime also helps kids sleep more soundly at night.

4. Teach Proper Handwashing

Handwashing is essential to avoid the spread of germs that cause illness. Our doctors suggest that children wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before eating and after using the bathroom, playing outside, or touching commonly used surfaces. Set a good example by washing your own hands frequently. Place hand sanitizer throughout your home and in bags to make it easy for kids to clean their hands.

5. Know When to Visit Urgent Care

No matter how diligent you are, kids will inevitably get sick sometimes. Know the signs of when medical attention is needed versus home treatment. Local urgent care centers provide fast, affordable care for non-emergencies. Take your child promptly if they experience symptoms like high fever, dehydration, severe pain, or breathing issues. Early treatment by a physician at a local urgent care center can help kids feel better fast and prevent complications.

Instilling healthy habits in kids while they’re young helps set them up for lifelong wellness. With these simple practices, you can keep your children healthy, safe, and thriving as they grow. If your child isn't feeling well, visit our local urgent care at Black Hills Pediatrics, LLP for a same-day appointment.