10 Healthy Habits Every Parent Should Teach Their Kids

There’s no denying that it’s sometimes challenging to raise kids. How do you ensure they grow into respectful adults with healthy habits? It’s important to start small so that they have a few basics under their belts. 

Here are 10 lessons to teach your children.

1. Make Every Meal Colorful 

A colorful plate should be a goal for every meal. This step will guarantee that your kids have well-rounded and wholesome diets from young ages. If you want to avoid picky eaters, it’s smart to introduce various foods as soon as your children can safely eat solids. 

Their breakfasts, lunches and dinners need a protein, grain and vegetable or fruit. Think grilled salmon with a side of green beans, eggplant and a whole wheat roll. A visually diverse meal will translate to high nutritional value.

2. Recognize and Share Emotions 

Many kids feel like they don’t know how to express themselves. But if your children can recognize and share their emotions, it’ll be easier for them to lead happy lives. A person who isn’t ashamed or scared to share when they’re angry or sad is mentally strong. 

If you take time to help your kids work through their feelings, they’ll be better for it.

3. Brush Teeth and Wash Face Correctly 

It’s necessary to teach your children proper hygiene sooner rather than later. 

You can start by showing them how to brush their teeth properly. Remember to discuss flossing and mouthwash so that they can build a good routine. Take special steps to help them care for their braces or retainers when needed. 

Try to introduce skin care as soon as your kids turn age 10. You don’t need to do anything fancy. Grab a basic alcohol-free cleanser from the store. Then, you can demonstrate how to wash your face gently. You can address issues like dry or oily skin as they surface.

4. Find a Fun Physical Activity 

It’s more fun to exercise when you’re doing something you enjoy. If your children discover they like basketball or ballet, they’ll be more inclined to be physically active. As a result, you won’t have to bug them to stop being couch potatoes. 

Do your best to introduce your kids to various activities. If they express interest in a particular sport, try to indulge them. An effort to exercise as a family will also help.

5. Apply Sunscreen Every Day

You and your family should apply sunscreen daily. This step is essential even when it’s cloudy outside due to the power of UV rays. It’s not a big deal if you forget, but it’s best to wear a minimum of SPF 15 on your face on any given day. 

This routine will ensure your kids understand that the sun can be extremely harmful to the skin. They should be better equipped to avoid sunburns thanks to this habit.

6. Recycle When Possible 

Recycling is a lesson everyone needs to learn. This habit is essential for the planet’s health, so it’s inadvertently important for your kids’ health. If they can contribute to a better environment, they’ll do their part to ensure a bright future for themselves and their children. 

As a family, you can learn how to recycle in your community. If you want to make other sustainable choices, you can consider composting your food scraps.

7. Hang Out With Friends 

Social interaction is necessary for healthy emotional and mental development. In fact, it may be one of the most crucial skills you teach your children. If your kids have a solid group of friends, they’ll be able to improve things like self-esteem, leadership, teamwork and more. 

Your children will have a better chance of making friends when you involve them in clubs, activities, sports and other extracurriculars. It’s also helpful to be the parent that allows their kids to have play dates at their house.

8. Drink Water Rather Than Soda 

A straightforward yet crucial habit is to stay hydrated. If you don’t drink enough water, you won’t sleep well enough, you may be more prone to illness and you could feel mentally out of it. In other words, water is vital to your health. 

Do your best to eliminate sugary drinks like soda and juice from your shopping list. These beverages might taste great, but they’re super unhealthy — especially for growing children.

9. Read One Book Per Month 

These days, it may seem like kids don’t read unless it’s for school. They’re focused on other things, like screen time. That’s perfectly fine in moderation, but you should try to instill a love for books in your kids. Reading is an invaluable skill that builds social-emotional abilities. 

After you help your kids learn how to read, it’s necessary to keep that habit alive. Try to work through one book every month with your children. If they’re old enough to read on their own, you can encourage them to read when they can.

10. Always Wear a Seatbelt 

It’s essential to wear a seatbelt when you’re in the car. A seatbelt will help you avoid injury or death if you get into a car accident. Make it a habit to put your seatbelt on as soon as you get into your vehicle. Your kids should follow suit. 

This way, they’ll know to do so when they start driving on their own.

These Habits Will Lead to Healthy and Safe Lives 

With proper guidance, your kids will grow up to be responsible adults. Use these ideas to help your children set off on the right foot. As a result, they’ll practice healthy habits for the rest of their lives.