Children need to be cared for in a safe and healthy environment. No matter where they go, being in a positive environment is essential to good health. Part of being a good parent is making sure that your child meets all of his goals at home, school and at play. Good caregiving skills help to provide the foundation for a healthy and active childhood.
Safety
It is important for a child to be safe in every aspect of his life. Starting at home, you should have a safe and nurturing environment established for your child. A safe environment starts at home. A childproof home includes gates, fences and locks on areas to the pool or hot tub. Make sure chemicals, cleaners and dangerous substances are locked up and out of reach. Teach your children basic household safety skills; for example, teach them what to do in case of a fire, hazardous weather or potential intruders. Show your child the fundamentals of how to be safe in public around strangers, when crossing the street and handling personal attacks or bullying.
Health
Raising a healthy child is important, because it reduces the risk of your child suffering from disease and undiagnosed illness. Children should also have 60 minutes of exercise on a daily basis. Exercise should include the physical activity she gets at school along with after-school activities and sports. Continue physical activity at home by having her complete household chores. Have the entire family participate in physical activities such as bike riding, walking or hiking. Exercise helps ward off obesity and improves cardiovascular health. This can decrease her risk for developing hypertension, high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes later in life.
Nutrition
Start off by making sure your child gets the right nutrition every day. Choose foods from the main food groups, including lean protein such as chicken and fish. Low-fat dairy products that include yogurt, milk and cottage cheese will provide calcium and folic acid. Fruits and vegetables are also important -- they provide vitamins, nutrients and potassium that are needed for overall health. Give your child fresh vegetables and fruits in place of processed snacks that may contain preservatives and added sugar. Focus on whole grains such as oatmeal and barley. Make sandwiches with whole-wheat bread as opposed to white bread, so your child will have more vitamins and fewer calories. Eating the right foods will help maintain your child's good health and reduce the risk of weight gain and cardiovascular problems.
Benefits
Bringing safety, health and nutrition all together will help your child be well-rounded both physically and emotionally. When she eats well and exercises regularly, she will take pride in herself and be at her best when it comes to concentrating at school. A healthy lifestyle is not just important when your child is young. When you teach kids early on how to care for themselves properly, they will continue to grow into healthy, productive adults.
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