How to Keep Your Kids Healthy in the Winter

​Winter can be a challenging time for moms and housewives, especially when it comes to keeping their children healthy. With the cold weather and flu season in full swing, it’s important to take steps to help your kids stay healthy and avoid getting sick. But with so many other responsibilities and tasks to manage, it can be tough to know where to start. In today’s blog post, I’ll share some simple and effective tips for keeping your kids healthy and happy during the winter months.
 

Get Enough Sleep
 
One of the most important things you can do to support your child’s health is to ensure they’re getting enough sleep. Sleep is when our bodies repair and recover, and it plays a critical role in our immune system. Kids need more sleep than adults, and the recommended amount varies based on age. As a general rule, preschoolers need 11-13 hours, school-aged children need 9-11 hours, and teenagers need 8-10 hours. Create a consistent bedtime routine and consider limiting screen time in the evening to help your child wind down.  We have found that having a dim red light in the room like the light emitted from this diffuser my children use, helps them sleep better and reset from the previous day.
 
Focus on Nutrition
 
Another key aspect of supporting your child’s health during the winter is to ensure they’re getting proper nutrition. A well-balanced diet provides the building blocks our bodies need to fight off infections and stay healthy. Encourage your kids to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Consider supplementing with vitamin D and omega-3s, which are important for immune function and brain health. Be sure to also hydrate with water and limit sugary drinks. Click here for my favorite Children's Multivitamin Supplement to fill the gaps in their diet.
 
Practice Good Hygiene
 
Good hygiene habits can help prevent the spread of germs that cause colds, flu, and other winter illnesses. Teach your kids to frequently and thoroughly wash their hands with soap, like this one, and warm water, especially after using the bathroom, coughing, or sneezing. Keep hand sanitizer, like this one, readily available for when hand-washing isn’t possible. Avoid sharing cups, utensils, or personal items. If someone in your household gets sick, be sure to disinfect surfaces and items that they may have touched.
 
Stay Active and Spend Time Outdoors
 
While it may be tempting to hibernate inside during the winter, it’s important to stay active and spend time outdoors. Exercise boosts the immune system and helps fight off infections. Fresh air and sunlight can also provide important mood-boosting benefits. Encourage your kids to find activities they enjoy, such as ice skating, sledding, or indoor swimming. Even something as simple as taking a brisk walk can help improve circulation and promote a sense of well-being.
 
Manage Stress and Emotions
 
The winter months can be stressful and emotionally challenging, especially for kids. Stress can weaken the immune system and make it harder to fight off infections. Encourage your kids to talk about their feelings and experiences. Practice mindfulness, deep breathing, or yoga to help them manage stress and regulate emotions. Consider our line of KidScents essential oils created especially for children's emotional, mental and physical well-being. Create opportunities for family time and relaxation, such as playing board games, reading together, or watching a movie.
 
 
Keeping your kids healthy in the winter may seem like a daunting task, but by focusing on a few key areas, you can make a big difference. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, hygiene, activity, and stress management to help support your child’s immune system and overall well-being. Be consistent and persistent in your efforts, and remember to stay positive and have fun along the way. Here’s to a happy and healthy winter season!

​xoxo, Melissa