|
Tips for a healthier new
year
The following tips are from the American
Academy
of Pediatrics.
Prevent violence by setting good examples
Hitting, slapping and spanking teaches children that it is acceptable
to hit other people to solve problems. Non-physical forms of
discipline work better in the long run. Remember that words can
hurt, too.
Make sure immunizations are up-to-date
Review your child's immunization record with your pediatrician.
Make sure your child is current on recommended immunizations.
Provide your child with a tobacco-free environment
Indoor air pollution from tobacco increases ear infections, chest
infections and even Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. If you smoke,
consider quitting. Remember, the most important predictor of
whether your children will grow up to be smokers is whether you
smoke. Make your home a smoke-free zone.
Read to your child every day
Start by the age of 6 months. Reading to children shows them
the importance of communication and motivates them to become
readers. It also provides a context to discuss issues and learn
what is on your child's mind.
Practice "safety on wheels"
Make sure everyone in the car is buckled up for every ride, with
children in the back seat in age-appropriate child safety seats.
All bikers, skaters, and skateboarders should wear helmets and
other appropriate sports gear.
Do a "childproofing" survey of your home
A child's-eye view home survey should systematically go from
room to room, removing all the "booby traps" that await
the curious toddler or preschooler. Think of poisons, small objects,
sharp edges, knives and firearms, and places to fall.
Monitor your children's "media"
Monitor what your children see and hear on television, in movies
and in music. Children are affected by what they see and hear,
particularly in these times of violent images. Talk to your children
about "content." If you feel that a movie or TV program
is inappropriate, redirect your child to more suitable programming.
Help kids understand tobacco, alcohol and the media
Help your teenager understand the difference between the misleading
messages in advertising and the truth about the dangers of using
alcohol and tobacco products. Talk about ads with your child.
Help your child understand the real messages being conveyed.
Help direct your child toward TV shows and movies that do not
glamorize the use of tobacco alcohol and other drugs.
Pay attention to nutrition
Nutrition makes a big difference in how kids grow, develop, and
learn. Good nutrition is a matter of balance. Provide foods from
several food groups at each meal. Emphasize foods that are less
processed, such as whole grain breads and cereals and fresh fruits
and vegetables. Review your child's diet with your pediatrician
for suggestions.
Become more involved in your child's school and your child's
education
Visit your child's school. Become active in the parent-teacher
organization. Volunteer in the classroom or for special projects.
Be available to help with homework. If your child's education
is important to you, it will be important to him.
Make your children feel loved and important
Kids develop a sense of self-worth early in life. Listen to what
your children have to say. Assure them that they are loved and
safe. Celebrate their individuality, and tell them what make
them special and what you admire about them.
2004 Academy of Pediatrics |
