Can you believe 2019 is almost here? What better time than now to start considering some healthy changes you and your family can make for the new year.
Even a few, slight changes to your daily routine can provide lifelong benefits! See below for 5 quick tips:
1. Encourage physical activity.
Everyone has a phone nowadays, including your little ones. Try to limit screen time and instead encourage more physical activity. Take your dog on a walk as a family, discover a new hobby, wander around a museum — anything to keep the blood flowing!
2. Eat and drink well.
Opt for water over sugary juices and sodas! It’s also important for growing bones to eat a well-balanced diet. This means not skipping meals and incorporating a range of colors into your daily diet.
3. Get a good night’s rest.
Sleep is important to mental and physical health! But how much sleep is recommended? According to the National Sleep Foundation, the recommended sleep ranges are:
- Newborns (0-3 months): 14-17 hours
- Infants (4-11 months): 12-15 hours
- Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours
- Preschoolers (3-5): 10-13 hours
- School-age children (6-13): 9-11 hours
- Teenagers (14-17): 8-10 hours
- Younger adults (18-25) and Adults (26-64): 7-9 hours
- Older adults (65+): 7-8 hours
4. Don’t skip your dental routine!
Set a good example for your kids and don’t forget your dental routine! That means remembering to brush twice every day, for two minutes and floss your teeth regularly. If you need help figuring out how to make teeth brushing fun, we’ve got you covered.
5. Get regular checkups.
Whether that means a dental checkup here at AMPD or a visit with your family doctor, you’ll want to ensure you don’t forget preventative health measures. Attending regular check-ups helps spot problems early, often when they’re most treatable.
There you have it — five healthy habits to keep your kids smiling through the new year. For questions or concerns regarding your family’s dental health this season, give us a call or click here to request your appointment»