Why does it seem that your kids experience the most illness during the winter months?
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not because they went outside with wet hair, or forgot to put their coat on. Illness isn’t caused by exposure to cold, nor are bugs more rampant during the winter. However, kids are cooped up more often in enclosed spaces during the winter. When they are cooped up together with less fresh air, it’s easier for bugs and illnesses to pass from one child or another. Luckily, the majority of illnesses that kids get are relatively minor. While these illnesses can be annoying-fever, upper respiratory issues, diarrhea, and sniffling and snuffling are never fun-they are rarely cause for emergency. That being said, every parent wants to do what they can to ensure that their kids are as healthy as possible.
What steps can a parent take?
The first step to staying healthy is practicing good hygiene. Train your kids to wash their hands frequently, and don’t let them share items like cups or utensils. Most colds and viruses can be completely prevented with adequate hand washing. Try throwing some hand sanitizer in your child’s backpack for times when he or she doesn’t have access to soap and water. Make sure your kids eat well.
Good nutrition is another cornerstone to being healthy!
Keep your kids away from the high-calorie, sugary, processed foods and instead fill their plates with vitamin- and mineral-rich fruits and vegetables. If your kids refuse to eat anything green, make sure they take a good multi-vitamin formulated especially for kids.
Finally, make sure your kids get some massage therapy. Massage therapy is a safe and natural way to help boost and maintain a well-functioning immune system… even in children. Massage can help to ensure that your child’s body remains in optimal shape, and is ready to fight off anything that gets in its way!
