Tips and Resources for Your Child’s Wellness
Most kids between 5 and 12 years old are ready to learn healthy habits. And it’s a great age to teach them, too. That’s because kids who build healthy habits are likely to keep those habits as adults.
But parents and caregivers know that getting kids on the right track isn’t always simple. That’s why we’ve collected the resources on this page (below). They’ll guide you on the path to five important habits and help you give the kids you love a healthy, happy life.
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Nutrition
Most kids are naturally interested in food. Young kids like to touch or smell new foods, while some children may jump right to tasting. All these approaches are hints that a child is interested in their food.
Building upon this interest is a great way to teach kids about nutrition. Start by teaching them to name the foods they see at the grocery store. As they grow, involve them in putting groceries away or basic cooking tasks like stirring or washing vegetables.
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Drinking Water
Whether playing with friends or learning at school, a child’s body needs water. Water keeps temperatures normal, brings nutrients to muscles, and keeps waste from building up.
To encourage kids to drink water, pour them a glass with meals and snacks, after school, and during play time. You could also let them pick out a water bottle to carry with them during the day.
Here’s more info to help build healthy hydration habits:
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Physical Activity
Being active can help kids grow, build endurance, and keep a healthy weight. But it’s not just their bodies that benefit from exercise; physical activity can help kids learn, too.
Experts say that kids should get 60 minutes of physical activity each day. This could mean organized sports, free play, or family activities like walks, hikes, or a game of tag. In fact, family activities are one of the best ways to get kids moving. They can be fun, and they help everyone in the family get some exercise.
Here are more tips to help get young bodies in motion:
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Sleep
Kids lead busy lives these days. And while some kids seem to have limitless energy, school, sports, homework, family time, and even playdates can tire them out.
That’s why they need a good, long sleep every night. In fact, most kids ages 5 to 12 need 10 to 11 hours of it. Sleep helps them fight off sickness, keep a healthy weight, manage their emotions, and stay focused in school.
One of the best ways to help kids get the sleep they need is to stick to a consistent bedtime. Doing so tells a child’s body that it’s time to rest for the night. Other ways to help are to limit screen time, avoid sugary foods and drinks, and have a 30-minute quiet-time routine right before bedtime.
Learn more about good sleeping habits below:
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Stress Management
Kids may not have jobs or bills to pay, but they still have stress. For some kids, it’s because they have busy schedules and little time to relax. For others, school or home life can be stressful. And these days, even our kids are more worried about serious illness than they were in the past.
Whatever the source of stress, kids can learn to respond in positive ways. Below are some resources to help kids manage stress, even when times are difficult.
If your child is struggling, you may want to speak with a behavioral health professional. You may also want to speak with your child’s primary care physician (though you don’t need a referral from him or her to see a behavioral health professional). For help finding a qualified, in-network behavioral health professional, use our find a Doctor tool.
Child Health Plus Coverage
Almost all children, regardless of income, qualify for Child Health Plus, Find out whether it’s right for your family.