Healthy habits and routines start at home. As little ones become more independent, promoting healthy behaviors for long-term health and wellness is essential. Basics such as teaching hand hygiene, general infection prevention, and brushing teeth can improve long-term wellness and outcomes (Petermann-Rocha et al., 2023). Incorporating daily reminders for washing hands, covering sneezes and coughs and oral hygiene continues to foster independence and health.
Petermann-Rocha, F., Rao, N., Bala, M., Parshad-Asnani, M., Sifuna, A., Yousafzai, A., Ho, F., & Ip, P. (2023). Hygiene practices and early childhood development in the east Asia Pacific region: a cross-sectional analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 20(4), 2798.
Washing Hands and Infection Prevention
Help your child learn about germs and why we wash hands even when they don't "look dirty." Germs can be found on all surfaces and frequent hygiene is the best form of prevention. The following video is great resource to remind kids about all the steps in handwashing. Handwashing is key to preventing infection and illness. Reminders about covering coughs and sneezed to prevent the spread of germs helps to keep your child and others healthy.
Oral Health
Dental caries impact 40% of children age 2-19. Dental caries are one of the most common chronic diseases impacting children and adolescence (Krol & Whelan, 2023). Early dentist visits and prevention through daily teeth brushing is essential for preserving oral health and promoting healthy habits for the future. Daily habits of brushing and flossing is essential for promoting oral and health and preventing tooth decay. The video below is a great tool to encourage kids to brush their teeth.
Keeping Your Child's Teeth Healthy | Nemours KidsHealth This site has many helpful tips and tricks and information about oral hygiene and keeping teeth healthy.
If you are experiencing financial barriers to finding a dentist, please talk to your doctor or community resource center. They are here to help!
Krol, D. M., & Whelan, K. (2023). Maintaining and improving the oral health of young children. Pediatrics, 151(1), e2022060417.