As parents, our top priority is to keep our children safe from bumps, scrapes, and any illnesses or infections that can be avoided. Although scrapes and bruises are inevitable, it is critical for parents to instill positive habits in their children at a young age in order to aid in the immune system’s development. There are a few tips that could help aid in a healthier life for your child or children. Promoting regular hand washing and teaching your child to properly wash their hands can help remove bacteria and viruses and reduce the chance of lung infections by 45%. Make sleep a priority. Not enough sleep limits the body’s ability to produce proteins that can help fight off infections. Sleep requirements vary by age, so make sure to check with your pediatrician to ensure your child is getting the adequate amount of sleep needed.
Another way to protect and build our children’s immune systems is to not skip out on their immunizations. Immunizations start at infancy and continue throughout adulthood. Today, children can be protected from 14 serious diseases. Lastly, we can encourage a healthy diet to promote good immune health. Dr. Lioudis, a pediatrician at the Cleveland Clinic, recommends children “eat the rainbow” when it comes to fruits and vegetables. Always remember to keep processed foods to a minimum and ensure the children are getting a daily source of vitamins. Remember that while illnesses cannot always be prevented, you can help your child develop a strong immune system that will make it easier for him or her to fight them off.