It's time to nurture children's wellness over the holidays

The arrival of school holidays provides a welcome respite from the routine of morning schedules, academic responsibilities, and extracurricular activities. This period presents a valuable opportunity for children to engage in leisurely interactions while also fostering a sense of independence.

During the school year, certain aspects of children’s health may be overlooked. The holidays serve as an ideal timeframe for parents and caregivers to focus on nurturing both the mental and physical health of their children. With an increase in free time, it is imperative to advocate for outdoor activities. Participation in park play and recreational spaces not only contributes to caloric expenditure but also supports the development of motor skills, bolsters immune systems, and enhances social interactions.

With this in mind, it is prudent for parents, caregivers, and children themselves to refresh their first aid knowledge. It is also critical for parents and caregivers to ensure appropriate attire based on weather conditions. Nutrition is key in preserving physical health. Parents have an excellent opportunity to focus on their children’s diets since they spend more time at home. A balanced diet high in protein, vegetables, and whole grains promotes strong physical health, making children more resilient.

Maintaining physical health is essential, but so is mental wellness. The holidays are an excellent opportunity to spend quality time as a family and observe the children’s behaviour. Any issues can be caught early and addressed. It is also always a good idea to keep children’s minds occupied even when they have free time on their hands. This can include both entertaining and educational games, puzzles, or arts and crafts projects. These provide an avenue for wholesome engagement while giving an outlet for creative expression and enhancement of problem-solving skills.

Today’s children are digital natives who spend time in front of screens. Technology is a crucial tool for learning and engagement, but it can also be a detriment if misused. It is necessary for parents to manage their children’s screen time so that it does not interfere with other elements of their lives. To reduce the hazards, parents should set restrictions for gadget use and encourage pauses for family time and physical activity to help preserve balance.

Another key area to be vigilant about during the end-year holidays is safe travel. This time of year is characterised by a lot of movement as families reunite for the festive season. While on the road, caregivers must ensure that children are comfortably seated with car seats for younger kids, and seatbelts fastened for the older ones. These devices save lives and prevent catastrophic injury in case of an accident.

The writer is a consultant paediatrician at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital  [email protected]