5 Ways to Keep Your Kids Healthy This Winter
By Brandi Goodman
Most people start to see a decline in health and wellness during the winter -- kids included. To keep your kids healthy this cold season, there are some things you can try. Keep them motivated and wanting to engage in healthy activities to ensure their well-being.
Set a Routine
Having a routine to follow can be beneficial for a child's mental health. Allow them to stay up late, have no boundaries, and do whatever they want, and they will quickly become exhausted. Setting and maintaining a routine this winter, and thereafter, can help keep them on the healthy track.
Try Child-Approved Medicine
A cough drop that makes your kid's face twist into disgust isn't going to keep them healthy. Most likely, they won't keep it in their mouth long enough. Try child-approved medicine options that they're more likely to enjoy and be OK with taking. A cough drop on a sucker stick, for example, may encourage young ones to take them. Try something honey-flavored with a mild aftertaste.
Plan Outdoor Time
Even on cold days, it isn't wise to keep your kids stuck inside. Everyone needs a healthy dose of Vitamin D that is best achieved by being outdoors. Plan some outdoor time for your kiddos so they can get outside and play. It's beneficial for their physical and mental well-being.
Encourage Their Help in the Kitchen
Don't make all the meals yourself. Chances are, it will have you wanting to order take-out more often than you should. It's also likely that it won't encourage your kids to want to try new things or eat the nutritious foods they need. Instead, encourage their help in the kitchen. Ask your kids to join you and help you make the meal so they can be involved in the process and more likely to give what they're making a try.
Teach Them the Right Handwashing Technique
Keeping your hands clean is one easy way to avoid the spread of germs. Yet, so few people actually know the proper handwashing technique to help eliminate the most bacteria. Teach your kids about the importance of washing for a good 20 seconds and making sure they're getting soap on the palms and backs of the hands as well as between the fingers.
Your child's health can quickly come into question during the winter season. Do what you can to help them maintain their well-being and ensure they have the necessary motivation and ability to work toward improving it. You'll improve your own health too as you guide them on this healthier path.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Midwest City, Okla.