Keep Your Kids Healthy, Happy and Safe in 2008
1. Buckle them up. Every time.
"Motor vehicle crashes are the leading killer of children younger than 14," says Paula Yuma, injury prevention program manager at Children's Medical Center Dallas. "But when used properly, a car seat reduces the risk of death by 71 percent for rear-facing infants and 54 percent for forward-facing toddlers."
2. Teach good hygiene and hand washing skills.
Many infectious diseases such as colds and the flu can be prevented by good hand washing. "Remind kids to wash their hands after using the restroom, before eating and when they finish playing with pets," says Dr. Joel Steinberg, a pediatrician on the medical staff at Children’s. "Teach them to sing the happy birthday song to themselves while washing their hands with soap and warm water--about 15 seconds of good hand washing will kill most germs. In between hand washings, encourage them to use hand sanitizer gels to kill germs."
3. Limit inactivity and encourage physical activity.
Nearly 15 percent of kids between the ages of 6-19 are overweight, and often times that is caused by too much inactivity. "When kids are overweight and don't get enough exercise, they are at risk for health problems like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, even sleep disorders," says Elyse Tyler, a clinical dietitian at Children's. "Limit television or computer time and choose physical activities. Even a 15-minute bike ride or a walk around the block each day will improve the health and wellness of your child."
4. Immunize your children.
Many childhood diseases such as measles, chicken pox and the flu can be prevented by following recommended guidelines for vaccinations. "The benefits of childhood vaccines far outweigh any possible risks." says Dr. Sue Coleman, a pediatrician on the medical staff at Children's. "Vaccines are held to the highest standard of safety. The United States currently has the safest, most effective vaccine supply in history."
5. Teach gratitude and consideration of others.
Encourage your kids to be nice to their friends, respectful of adults and thankful for what they have. "The best way to teach your kids to be polite and thoughtful is to model that behavior for them," says Dr. Pete Stavinoha, a neuropsychologist at Children's. "Thank someone when they do you a favor and treat people with kindness. Your kids will follow suit."
