Healthy Health List (heheli.com)

Having two children I was always immersed into searches for the matter of raising healthy kids. Tons of books and studying materials, advices, suggestions and other are overwhelming. But most of us are looking for the very simple, “quick and easy” reading tips. I found one at US Department of Health and Services, and I thought they may not cover all the aspects and not so deep, but still it worth to read. You may continue your exploring this topic and you may find your own recipe which you will gratefully share with others.

1. Plan a healthy pregnancy.

Take folic acid and avoid drinking alcohol to help prevent certain birth defects and disabilities. Know your family’s health history to see if you and your baby are at higher risk for certain diseases and conditions. Make sure any health conditions you have are under control and that you are up-to-date on your vaccinations.

2. Know the signs of child development.

As your kids grow, they should reach milestones in how they play, learn, speak, and act. A delay in any of these areas could be a sign of a developmental problem. The earlier you recognize a delay, the more you can do to help your kids reach their full potential.

3. Get check-ups and vaccinations.

Routine check-ups help identify ways to stay healthy and help find health problems early, when
chances for treatment are better. Vaccinations help prevent many diseases and save lives. Keep track of your and your family’s checkups and vaccinations to make sure they stay current.

4. Protect your kids.

Take steps to make sure your home, car, school, and other areas are safe. Use car seats and seat belts for appropriate ages and sizes. Keep harmful substances and objects out of children’s
reach. Be aware of signs of maltreatment, including physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. Ask a
trusted friend or family member to watch your kids if you feel yourself losing control and need a break.

5. Provide healthy meals.

Eating right will help provide the nutrients needed to have energy, build strong bones, and fight diseases and conditions. For babies, breastfeeding is best. As children grow, help them choose healthy meals and snacks. Pay attention to what and how much they eat. You’ll help them stay on track and may uncover problems of which you were unaware.

6. Keep your kids active.

Help kids and teens be active for at least one hour a day. Include activities that raise their
breathing and heart rates and that strengthen their muscles and bones. Find fun, safe, and active
things you can do with your kids to help keep the whole family healthy.

7. Live a smoke-free life.

Being exposed to secondhand smoke is just as harmful as smoking directly. Be smokefree
during pregnancy to prevent premature birth and other health problems. Stay smoke-free to help lower your children’s risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), bronchitis, asthma, and pneumonia.

8. Monitor activities.

Kids learn from family, friends, media, school, and more. Know who they spend time with, what
they are doing, and whether their activities are age-appropriate. Know how their schools promote
health and safety.

9. Teach your kids healthy habits.

Help your kids develop skills to make safe and healthy choices every day. These include fastening seat belts, wearing helmets, applying sunscreen, brushing teeth, washing hands, forming healthy relationships, and more. Make safe and healthy choices every day to show kids how to do it.

10. Provide love and support.

Kids need the support and love of family and friends. Talk to your kids to help them understand how they can be healthy, safe, and happy. Find out what’s going on with them and how they are making decisions and handling problems. Respond to their physical and emotional needs. It’s important for kids to develop in a safe, loving, and secure environment.

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