Your children are the most important thing in the world to you, and you want to care for them to your best ability. But all parents need a little help keeping on top of things, especially when it comes to looking after your kids’ health. Parents aren’t doctors (most of the time). So while they can learn about the most important factors or pediatric health, they probably won’t ever be experts. But you can try your best to take care of every aspect of your child’s health. And that involves more than just making sure they eat right and exercise. As well as making sure they and you are caring for their body, you need to help them to have a healthy mind too.
Nutrition and Exercise
Staying fit and healthy through eating well and exercising is important for children of all ages. When you’re tired and have had a long day, it’s tempting not to cook a proper meal or let the kids sit in front of the TV after school. But obesity is a real problem, and it’s important to make sure your kids are getting the diet and exercise that they need. You can talk to your pediatrician about what your children should be eating. Many children need a special diet, perhaps due to allergies or to help them manage a behavioral or other medical condition. Children under five should be physically active for at least three hours every day. While older children should do an hour’s aerobic exercise daily. Make sure your kids are getting enough exercise, running around at school and participating in after-school sports. You can go on family activities together at the weekend, such as bike rides and walks to encourage exercising as a family.
Regular Checkups and Doctor’s Visits
Monitoring your child’s health both at home and the doctor’s can be beneficial for their health. As well as being aware of when they’re not feeling well or showing signs of illness at home, regular checkups can help to spot potential problems that you might miss. Babies will see their pediatrician much more often than older children, probably every few months. Once they’re five years old, a checkup every year or two is probably adequate, unless your child has known health issues. Another important place for checkups is the dentist. Your child should visit the dentist more frequently than the doctor for checkups. Usually the recommended period between appointments at your dentist in North Bethesda, MD is six months.
Mental and Emotional Health
Another side of your child’s health is their mental and emotional health. This doesn’t just involve diagnosable mental illnesses and behavioral conditions. It also includes how they feel emotionally on a day-to-day basis. You can help them to deal with big changes, such as a new school or a bereavement. But it’s also important to talk to your child frequently to allow them a chance to express their feelings and everyday issues. Their emotional health is just as important as their physical health, and the two can even tie in together.
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