5 Health Habits to Encourage for Kiddos Over the Holiday Break

The holiday break is officially here and for many, that means school is out and the kids are now at home for several days. That also means our normal routines are out of whack. Our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to offer some tips on ways you can encourage healthy habits, even during the holiday break. Check them out:

1) Stick with a Bedtime Routine

Sleep is important for healthy and happy kiddos. Ensure your child is getting enough sleep this time of year. It can be tempting to let all the bedtimes go out the window during a holiday break, but it’s best to keep your family on a routine so it’s not as rough readjusting when the break ends.

2) Offer Healthy Snacks

Candy and cookies and yummy food galore! The holiday season is filled with sugary treats. While those treats are fun to have in moderation, it’s important that you monitor the amount of sugary and fatty foods your kiddos are taking in this time of year. Have healthy snack options at the ready and within reach so your kids can easily make those better eating choices.

3) Promote Creative Play

We are in the era of screens for kiddos. That means phones, tvs, video games, and more are in the faces of our young ones. Try to encourage more creative play by limiting screen time and providing hands-on toys and activities for them to play with. If the day is nice enough, grab a coat and gloves and head outside for some outdoor playtime! Fresh air and sunshine are good for everyone!

4) Wash Hands Often

Kiddos touch a lot of surfaces throughout the day. Their hands are likely full of germs and grime at any given time. Ensure your little ones are washing their hands several times throughout the day. Washing before eating and after using the restroom is highly encouraged to reduce the spread of germs for a healthy holiday break!

5) Include Family Time in Your Routine

It can be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. We know you as parents have a lot on your plate this time of year. It’s very important to squeeze in family time every day. Whether it’s watching a movie together, playing a board game, eating a meal around the table, or driving around to look at Christmas lights, there are easy and fun ways to encourage family time during the holiday break.

Now that you know how you can keep your crew happy and healthy over the holiday break, you’re ready to start with your healthy habits. Whether you already have healthy habits for your family or you’re using this time to get back on track, the holiday break is a fantastic time to work on those skills. The entire team at Central Ozarks Medical Center hopes you and yours have a happy and safe holiday season! Remember, we’re here for all of your health care needs in Central Missouri!

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