1. Make Sure Your Child Gets Exercise
Regular exercise is an essential part of managing chronic fatigue syndrome in children. Because they are tired, most children with this disorder will not feel much like going outside to play with their friends or participating in sporting activities, though they may want to. While plenty of rest is important with this condition, children with chronic fatigue syndrome should also get at least some physical activity every day. Even a walk around the block, a short bike ride or a few laps in the pool will not only keep your child's muscles in toned condition, it will also help maintain their stamina and promote the development of some much-needed energy.
2. See That Your Child Eats a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is another important component of dealing with children who have chronic fatigue disorder. Too much sugar will deplete your child's minimal stores of energy, and dairy products may irritate his digestive system (people with chronic fatigue syndrome are often sensitive to dairy). Eating plenty of protein and whole grains, however, will build energy and stamina in your child's body. You should feed your child a high-protein breakfast, a light lunch filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, and a modest dinner consisting of lean protein and a variety of produce. For mid-morning or afternoon snacks, nuts, fruits, whole-grain crackers and peanut butter are good options.
3. Teach Your Child Good Stress-Management Techniques
Children with chronic fatigue syndrome are typically under more stress than other children. They may feel less able to keep up with their schoolwork than they did before, and they may have a hard time keeping up with their friends. Allowing extra time for your child to get things done, giving him plenty of time to rest and not placing too many demands on him will help him deal with the stress of having this condition. Teaching your child how to slow down and to not be too hard on himself for the things he cannot do will give your child the tools he needs to continue to deal with the hardships of the condition on his own.
