Children and Winter Time Health by David Novak (Healthline)
December 28, 2013
Encourage proper hygiene
Winter doesn’t only bring cold weather, but also cold and flu viruses. Children are more prone to acquiring these viruses because they play closely together, and they’re still unaware of proper hygiene. Washing hands the right way is one of the basic essentials kids should learn when it comes to hygiene because most viruses are transferred through surfaces and direct contact. Oral and nasal secretions can get on the hands, and ultimately in your body quite easily. Another rule for kids is to cover their mouth when they cough, and keep a safe distance from others when they are doing so. This is a very simple and helpful way in preventing the spread of cold and flu viruses. Teach them also to use disposable tissue to cover their nose and mouth while sneezing.
Dress warmly
Snow is like a child’s beacon for fun. When snow falls, children get amped up to play outside, but it also signals parents to make sure they are dressed warmly for the weather. Dressing them in layers helps in keeping their body insulated, and prevents them from being too cold. Make sure they are also wearing water-resistant or waterproof jackets, gloves, wool hats and thermal underwear. Instruct them to come back in the house regularly to check if they aren’t ignoring any signs of possible hypothermia.
Keep their skin winter-proof
Children have more sensitive skin than adults, and the winter weather can wreak havoc on their delicate hands, faces and lips if skin care is not taken seriously. Sunscreen is vital even if it’s winter, since sun glare reflected off snow can still burn the skin. Make sure to reapply sunscreen if needed. Breakouts of eczema and other dry skin conditions are also common during winter, so it is vital to keep their skin moisturized. Apply moisturizers made from natural ingredients or petroleum jelly on any exposed areas. Avoid those with artificial fragrances and colors, which can only cause irritation.
Provide healthy foods and plenty of liquids
Eating healthy can also help in fighting off cold and flu viruses that are prevalent during winter. Make sure that children are getting all the necessary nutrients they need to keep their immune system healthy. Serve foods that are high in vitamin C, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits, as these are well-known for their flu-fighting components. Vegetables are high in nutrients and vitamins, so make sure to include these in their meals as much as possible. Keeping them healthy lowers their risk of cold and flu, and in case they do get sick, these nutrients aid in fighting off illness more vigorously.
Give them daily multivitamins
Most kids can be picky when it comes to food, leaving them deficient in certain nutrients and vitamins. Supplementing with daily vitamins is vital in ensuring they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need. Try to use supplements that are all-natural, dye and preservative-free daily multivitamins.
Sleep
Rest is one of the most important components in keeping the body healthy, as well as helping our bodies to recover easily when we get sick. As a parent, stress to your kids that they should follow a good sleeping routine, which includes 8-solid-hours of night-time sleep, and the occasional nap if needed. Check on your child’s room temperature to make sure it is not too cold or too hot. Either could disturb their sleep. Make sure to cover them with blankets or duvets to keep them cozy and warm at night.
Be careful in winter sports
Winter sports such as sledding, skiing, and ice skating can be lots of fun, but they can also be dangerous if proper safety guidelines are not followed. Adults should supervise children while they are sledding, and make sure the path doesn’t have any obstacles that can cause accidents. Children should also wear protective gear such as fitted helmets to avoid any head injuries, which is one of the most common sledding injuries. When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, children should always be accompanied by an adult who is familiar with the sport and the route. Make sure that the slopes are in good physical condition as well as the equipment they are using.
Enjoy indoor activities
Snowstorms can hinder your child’s outdoor activities, thus it is best that you have fun indoor activities planned when this happens. Board games and art supplies can help in keeping your child busy when they are snowed in. Other activities that can be more active and fun include dressing up, bean bag tosses and dance parties. Scavenger hunts and obstacle courses can also help not only in keeping them active, but also in enhancing their cognitive, social and physical performance.
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David Novak’s byline has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the world. He’s an avid health enthusiast, and frequently is featured in regional and national health publications. He is also a weekly writer for Healthline. To view his other stories on Healthline, visit http://www.healthline.com/.
