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Colds/Flu
Sleep Well Your children’s immune system is also influenced by the quality and length of sleep they receive. Getting enough sleep and sleeping well can help prevent sick- ness, even after exposure to an illness. Good rest and sleep also help the healing process if your child becomes ill. Sleep helps reduce the length of the sickness and a quicker return to your child’s nor- mal self. The CDC recommends different lengths of sleep for different ages. The recommended amount of sleep per day is 11 to 12 hours for preschool-aged chil- dren, at least 10 hours for school-aged children, and 9 to 10 hours for teenagers. A good bedtime routine to help promote healthy sleep habits can help reach the recommended amount of sleep.
Manage Stress Helping your child relax during down- time is important for healthy immune sys- tem functioning. High levels of stress can weaken the immune system and make children more prone to illness. Highly stressful environments and situations can negatively affect the entire family. Chil- dren may experience stress and express it a little differently from adults. Be aware of your children’s environment and ways to help promote restful periods.
Additional Healthy Habits
* Make healthy food choices. * Drink water. * Engage in regular physical activity. * Avoid smoke exposure. * Avoid contact with ill people. * Stay home when sick. * Disinfect high-contact surfaces.
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Creating healthy habits for your family goes a long way toward overall well-be- ing. There are additional habits you may adopt to help keep your kids healthy. Your healthcare provider is a great resource for maintaining your child’s well-being. You are creating healthy habits today to help your family be active and happy.
Sarah Wulfers, APRN, CPNP-PC, is a PNP at Westview Pediatric Care in Tulsa, OK.
www.readysetgrowmag.com
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