Prevention is better than Cure

Aches, pains and sick days are a part of childhood and parents spend a lot of time worrying about these matters. Immune systems strengthen as children get older and start building immunity to fight off many common infections.

Germs, bacteria and viruses are naturally present in our environment and since children have weak immune systems, they get sick more often than adults when exposed to these harmful agents.

Instead of worrying, parents should work to boost their child’s immunity, inculcate hygienic practices in their children and encourage a healthy atmosphere at home. Parents should also guide their domestic help and nanny about safety and hygiene, seeking their active involvement and cooperation is extremely vital.

Healthy and nutritious food intake is the best way to boost your child’s immune system. Enough sleep at night and proper rest during the day is necessary for the child’s overall development. Making physical activities and sports a part of their daily routine strengthens the child assuring a strong and healthy childhood.

Here are a few simple practices, to be followed by every parent and child for a safe and healthy lifestyle.

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after playing outside, before eating and after using the bathroom.
Brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once again before you go to bed at night.
Practice good hygiene and check if your child observes the same too.
Discourage children from putting their hands in their mouth and from touching objects at public places. Toddlers tend to sense objects with their tongues more often, avoid them from doing so.
Make sure the toys are always clean and wash them regularly. Also make sure their bedding and laundry is absolutely clean and hygienic at all times.
Clean your house every day and keep it free of dust and clutter. Make sure that the floor is very clean as kids spend a lot of time on the floor either crawling or playing.
Encourage a healthy diet, rich in nutrients to help boost the immune system.
Make sure that the food you serve is cooked hygienically and in a healthy environment.
Be vigilant while serving and make sure the food your child eats is served in clean plates and bowls. Take special care with feeding bottles and sterilize them regularly.
Make sure your child gets clean drinking water at regular intervals.
Proper rest is essential to speed recovery, thus ensure your child rests well when unwell. Also, do not let him play with other kids as doing so may spread the infection to others.
Take your child to the doctor and follow the prescription correctly without omitting any dosages.