7 Simple Good Habits Parents Should Teach Their Kids Today

 

In this fast-paced era with a lot of technological devices, it is easy for kids to skip an important habit once, twice, or more because there are things that lure them and make them lazy to know what is important in their lives. Also, as a parent, you should know that kids like colorful items; even if they are not healthy or good for them, they tend to eat and enjoy candies more than normal, even if it is dangerous for their health.

To raise a child with good behavior toward their health, education, well-being, and motor skills, good habits come to train your child to adhere to a good way of living that lasts forever. This way starts from a habit. Parents need to remind their children of these habits each time they see them skip them, but don't be strict. Tell them that skipping it once or twice a month is not a problem; to skip it forever is the problem.

Therefore, I give you the 7 most important habits you should try this year to include in your child's day.

1. Eat a balanced diet

I still remember when I was a kid; I ate what I wanted, whether it was healthy or not. I had the liberty to eat anything, but this liberty led me later on to face many health problems in my stomach and bowels in general.

This first good habit is the one I want to start with because it is part of your child's growth, development, and overall health. In addition, a balanced diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and dairy. Your child can be provided with healthy nutrients that help them to grow strong and stay healthy.

2. Drink water daily

Water is the main thing children need to be aware of. As a parent, encourage them to drink enough water regularly. Also, explain to them the importance of hydration and make drinking water a fun and engaging activity by using colorful water bottles or cups that your child loves.

Put water on the table while the family is eating a meal and drink a lot of it while you give a piece of advice to your children. You can set a plan or measure how much water your children are drinking on average. Research shows the amounts of water children should drink:

• Toddlers (1-3 years): About 4 cups (1 liter) of total beverages, including water and other fluids.
• Kids (4-8 years): About 5 cups (1.2 liters).
• 9-13 years:  5 to 6 cups.
• 14 to 18 years: 6 to 8 cups.

3. Never skip breakfast

 The first meal of the day is breakfast; it is the one that is called "the most important meal of the day." It provides energy and nutrients that children need to kick-start their day.

When children have school, this meal should be taken. The mind needs energy in the morning to think and, most importantly, to focus. Some parents encounter the problem that their children don't incline to eat their breakfast. But as a parent, try these tips to encourage them to eat their first meal:

• Set a Routine : Establish a consistent morning routine that includes time for breakfast. This helps children understand that breakfast is a regular part of their day.
• Make It Fun: Involve your kids in the breakfast-making process. Let them choose ingredients or help with simple tasks like mixing or pouring. This engagement can make them more excited about eating.
• Offer Variety: Provide a range of healthy breakfast options to prevent boredom. Include fruits, whole grains, dairy, and proteins. Allow them to pick what they want from a selection.

Additionally, parents need to take some time to discover the reason behind their children's lack of motivation to eat breakfast.

4. Brush teeth regularly 

Make brushing teeth for your children an easy process. Educate them on why brushing teeth regularly is important. Bring them with you when you are brushing yours because kids like to copy what their parents do. Also, show them the benefits of cleaning teeth, like a white smile and a healthy mouth.

5. Wash hands frequently 

Everyone has their own perspective about washing hands. When I was a kid, I didn't like to eat with someone who didn't wash his hands; I thought that maybe he touched some germy things. But this encouraged me to wash my hands many times. As a parent, make washing hands a habit whenever your child comes back home or wants to eat. Make them aware that they should wash their hands before eating. Tell them about the benefits of this habit, like "My son, when you wash your hands, you reduce germs," "My son, washing hands prevents illness," or "My daughter, you should protect others by washing your hands."

6. Get enough sleep

Lack of sleep can cause many problems in your child's growth. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM):

• Infants 4 months to 12 months should sleep 12 to 16 hours per 24 hours (including naps).
• Children 1 to 2 years of age should sleep 11 to 14 hours per 24 hours (including naps).
• Children 3 to 5 years of age should sleep 10 to 13 hours per 24 hours (including naps).
• Children 6 to 12 years of age should sleep 9 to 12 hours per 24 hours.

Some children do not want to go to sleep, and parents suffer to get them to bed. These are important steps to stimulate the sleep of your children:

• Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment
• Limit Screen Time Before Bed.
• Encourage Physical Activity During the Day.
• Teach Relaxation Techniques.
• Address Fears and Anxieties.

7. Limit screen time

Our children are surrounded by digital devices, which makes it very hard for parents to convince them that these electronics would harm their eyes and concentration. Parents need to provide their children with alternatives to digital devices such as sports, arts and crafts, reading, or outdoor play. Also, as a parent, make these options readily available and accessible.

But, children have a big opportunity to use these advice to their advantage. Teach your child how to use these digital devices for their sake. Help them to use technology for learning, like online courses and educational apps and games.

Remember, all these habits have a pivotal reward if parents stick with them and apply them on a daily basis. Parents should do what they can to grow their child with good habits that assist them as they grow up.