First Author: Hillary
Second Author: Kelly T.
"By the time a child is between two and four years old, her eating habits are largely shaped. If she reaches the age of five without learning about healthy eating, the chances of her developing poor nutritional habits and attitudes are significantly increased."[1]
To begin, remember, when teaching children healthy habits it is important to lead by example.
Lets look at some all-around healthy habits to teach to young children.
Hand Washing: simple and easy way to avoid infection, colds and flu bugs
Encourage your children to wash their hands:
before preparing food, setting the table, or serving food
before eating meals or snacks
after visiting a bathroom
after sneezing or coughing into their hands
after blowing their nose
after handling money
after playing with a pet[2]
Engaging young children in fun physical activity is the key to keeping them repeatedly active.
The American Heart Association recommends "all children age 2 and older should participate in at least 30 minutes of enjoyable, moderate-intensity physical activities every day that are developmentally appropriate and varied".[3]
It is important to encourage healthy eating habits by involving the whole family and not singling out the child. Your child will not be likely to stick with healthy food choices if you do not follow them consistently.
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