Healthy Habits for Kids

Childhood is a great time to help your child develop healthy habits. The sooner in life we build good, healthy habits, the easier it is to keep them and stay as healthy as possible.

One important thing to remember is that you are your child's role model. Your habits affect your children's habits.

If your habits are healthy—eating a variety of healthy foods, getting regular exercise, and practicing healthy thinking, for example—your children are more likely to build those habits in their own lives.

Here are four areas where you can help build good, lifelong habits for your child.

• Healthy eating. Help your child learn healthy eating habits, how to make healthy snacks, and ways to make healthy choices when you eat out.
• Regular physical activity. Encourage your child to find activities that are right for their lifestyle and personality. You could also find ways to be active as a family.
• Staying safe and healthy. Teach your child how to take good care of their teeth, how to sleep well, and how to prevent injuries from sports and other activities.
• Healthy thinking. Help your child build a healthy body image, self-esteem, and social skills. You can also help them learn how to cope with stress and avoid tobacco and nicotine, alcohol, and drugs.