6 Ways to Keep Your Toddler Healthy - s post

Any parent will tell you that having a toddler will keep you extremely busy. In the midst of that hectic schedule, you’ll need to do everything you possibly can in order to keep your toddler healthy. But since they’re picky eaters, don’t ever want to sleep, and start a tantrum for no reason, sometimes this task becomes impossible. However, no matter what type of challenges your child may pose, there are certain things you should do to keep your child healthy.

1. Sneak them vegetables.

You know your child is a picky eater, but that doesn’t mean their health should suffer. Instead of giving in and giving your child cheese fries and milkshakes every day, you should consider sneaking them vegetables whenever you can.

·      For instance, if your child likes pizza, grind up some vegetables and mix it in with the pizza sauce.

·      Mix in some vegetables with a smoothie you give your child.

·      Add vegetables to pasta sauce.

·      Simply cut your vegetables into fun shapes to entice your child to eat them.

2. Take them to the dentist—early!

Most parents wait until your child is starting school to get them to the dentist, and this isn’t a good idea. When children are older, their sense of fear is larger and it could cause more chaos at the dentist’s office. Instead, you should start bringing your child to the dentist around their first birthday. According to Dr. Gol in Columbia, MD, “Children who see the doctor very early have better overall oral health because any issues can be found early and preventative measures can be taken.” By having your child see the dentist early, it will help them become more comfortable with the dentist in the long run.

3. Exercise with your child.

Child obesity rates are always rising, and even if you have a little one at home, it’s not too early to start exercising. Obviously with a small child this means doing activities that allow you both to move.

·      Get outside and play some games, such as catch.

·      Dance with each other.

·      Go on an outside scavenger hunt.

·      Ride bikes or scooters around the block.

·      Take your dogs for a walk.

·      Have a race.

Finding ways to be active with your child will not only help his or her overall health, but it can have a positive impact on your own well-being as well.

4. Visit the doctor.

Young children are more susceptible to disease and illness, and it’s important you keep your child healthy by bringing him or her to the doctor on a regular basis. Especially when your child is young, they will need to see their doctor about two times a year. When there, be sure to bring up any concerns you may have about your child’s health. Plus, this is the time to ensure your child is getting the vaccinations he or she needs in order to stay healthy and safe.

5. Teach them emotional health.

Toddlers don’t necessarily know how to show their emotions, and when you have a screaming child, it could make you want to scream. However, your child needs to learn their behaviors from you, and this includes emotional health. Be sure to teach your child the proper way to show his or her emotions. For instance, don’t let your child think that hitting is a good form of showing anger. Instead, teach them to try and share their feelings with you as a way to be emotionally happy.

6. Limit screen time.

While technology is an easy way to keep a child distracted, and with all the educational apps out there it may not seem harmful, but too much screen time can have some detrimental effects on your child’s health. Not only can it hurt their eyesight, but it can also make them less eager to get up and move. This sedentary lifestyle, along with the constant eye strain, can put your child at risk for some unhealthy issues as he or she gets older. If you want your child to have some screen time, be sure to either limit the time they spend or work it into a schedule you may have (or even use it as a reward for good behavior).

Your toddler is a very persistent and explorative person, and it’s up to you as the parent to keep him or her safe and healthy. By using these tips, you may be able to do just that and be successful.