5 Tips for a Healthier Child

Childhood is the best time to develop healthy habits because these can stick with you for years. Habits imprinted in childhood are often difficult to change. When it comes to your child’s health, it is very important that you get your little one start on the right track. At Step One Academy LLC, we recognize the importance of health and teaching your child about eating healthily, exercising regularly, and simple meal planning to include all food groups. Teaching your child healthy habits will pay off in the future as he will eventually discover that health is the foundation of nearly everything in life.

1. Plan meals with your child

   Getting your child involved in meal planning makes him more invested in the meals and more likely to finish his food. Start by asking your little one which healthy recipes he likes best. If your child’s favorite food isn’t very healthy, upgrade it by trading the traditional ingredients for healthier substitutes. It’s also a good idea to have your child helps you prepare the food, even if it’s in small ways like mixing the batter or washing the vegetables. This cultivates excitement over the meal.

2. Prepare snacks

   Make sure to include snacks in your meal plan. Three healthy meals won’t be so effective if your child is snacking on junk food in between. Have a basket of fresh fruits in the dining area or try a fun recipe like dark chocolate banana bites.

3. Take them to the farmer’s market

   Have your child accompany you in shopping for the ingredients. However, a trip to the candy-filled grocery store may be too tempting. Try shopping at your local farmer’s market. This gives your child a better sense of where the food comes from. Farmer’s markets typically sell fresher and more affordable produce.

4. Build a small garden

   If you have space in your yard, help your child build a small vegetable garden. Growing your own food can teach your child not only to be healthier but also more independent and sustainable. It also gives your child a sense of fulfillment.

5. Choose fun exercises

   A healthy diet should always be complemented with regular exercise. Ask your child what activities they like best and encourage him to make it a regular habit. If your child likes swimming, volunteer to drive him to your local public pool every week. At our Summer Camp Program, we’ve discovered that Leadership and Team Exercises and Group Sports are a great way to stay fit and make friends. Encourage your child to sign up for a sport he likes. With the right support and ample practice, sports can become a source of confidence.

Complement the healthy habits you teach at home with a learning environment that equally values your child’s growth and development. Step One Academy LLC is a reliable provider of Early Childhood Education in Plainfield NJ. To know more about what we can do for your child, please call us at 908-753-8252 or at 908-753-8253.