As a parent, we want to ensure our children are always healthy. This is why we cook healthy meals, ensure they get plenty of exercise, and take them to the doctor. However, when the holiday season approaches, the standard healthy routine can go out the window. You are busy with parties, activities, and get-togethers, so it becomes hard to constantly monitor what your child eats or ensure they get to bed on time. So how exactly do you keep your kids healthy during the holidays?
- Choose healthy snacks.
While you may not be able to control the goodies your child eats at grandma’s house or during the school field trip, you can control what they eat at home or while on the go with you. Pick up some portable applesauces and fruit cups and keep them on hand at home and on the go. This way, if your child needs something to eat, you can ensure they’re getting at least one fruit or vegetable during the day.
- Limit the sweet snacks.
After Halloween, it seems as if your house is filled with bite-sized candies. You also know how easy it is to devour a handful of these without thinking. You also know how bad candy is for your waist and teeth. In order to prevent tooth decay for your child, consider limiting the amount of sweets you have in your home. Separate the candy so you only have so much available during the week or month. You can also keep only a little bit of it in your home and find somewhere to donate the rest. As a side note, always be sure to have your child visit the family dentist during the holiday season to ensure those sweets don’t do any harm.
- Learn to say no.
It’s hard to bypass family and friends during the holidays, but if you are constantly on the go, it will take a toll on your child’s health. Chances are they will not be getting enough sleep, which can make them groggy, weaken their immune system, and even impact their ability to focus at school. When someone invites you to do something, look at the rest of your schedule before making a commitment. If saying yes would mean that you’re never at home, learn to say no or suggest a different day that works better. The holidays may be about spending time with family, but it’s not worth making your child sick over it.
- Stay active.
Although it may seem like bouncing from one house and activity to the next is enough to keep you and your child fit during the holidays, it’s not. Be sure that your child is still getting plenty of exercise. Keep them involved in after school activities that get them moving. If they’re not involved in something, then be sure you do something with them that keeps them active. Maybe you can go walk around town or the local mall to look at the holiday displays. If it snowed, go sledding. There are always ways to get moving, so just find what works best for you and your family.
- Take preventative measures.
During the holidays, your child will be exposed to more people and places than usual. This means they are around more germs. In order to keep your child healthy, be sure to take all the preventative measures you can. For instance, be sure they are up to date on all their immunizations. Take this time to talk with your child’s doctor and see if they should get a flu shot or any other immunization that could keep them healthy during the holidays. As always, you need to also ensure they are eating right and getting enough sleep.
The holidays are always a fun an exciting time, but they can also put a lot of stress on the body. Use these tips to help keep your child happy and healthy during the holiday season.
