Sign out
Your child may like to play with friends and have an interest in connections between people. They may be a great little storyteller.
-
Your child may know the names of things around the house and what they're used for. Your child can learn their own home address and your phone number.
-
They may be able to copy shapes like triangles and squares. And they might like to count on their fingers.
How can you care for your child age 5 years?
Forming healthy eating habits
- Offer healthy foods, including fruits and vegetables.
- Let your child choose how much they eat. If they aren't hungry, it's okay for them to wait until the next meal or snack.
- Offer water when your child is thirsty. Avoid juice and soda pop.
- Remove screens when eating. Make meals a time for family to connect.
Being active as a family
- Let your child play and be active for at least 1 hour every day.
- Visit the park. Go for walks and bike rides together, if you can.
Practicing healthy habits
- Help your child brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Take them to the dentist twice a year.
- Limit screen time.
- Don't smoke or let others smoke around your child.
- Put your child to bed at about the same time every night.
Keeping your child safe
- Always use a car seat or booster seat. Install it in the back seat.
- Make sure your child wears a helmet if they ride a bike or scooter.
- Teach your child not to talk to strangers.
- Keep guns away from children. If you have guns, lock them up unloaded. Lock ammunition away from guns.
Parenting your child
- Read and play games with your child often.
- Let your child help with simple chores, like making their bed.
- Praise good behavior. Don't yell or spank. Your child learns from watching and listening to you.
- Don't use food as a reward or punishment.
Getting vaccines
- Make sure your child gets all the recommended vaccines.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
Current as of: October 24, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
