Parenting toddlers is a joy-filled and thoroughly interesting phase of life. While it may seem tough keeping toddlers healthy, we can make a significant difference to the overall health and happiness of our toddlers by following a few simple parenting basics. Here are some simple yet effective parenting tips to help raise happy and healthy toddlers.
Happy Toddlers Spend Plenty of Time Outdoors
Time spent outdoors is good for toddler health and development. While it is possible to have a lot of wholesome fun indoors as well, it is in the outdoors that toddlers can really run, exercise their developing muscles, breathe in fresh air and explore the wonders of nature. Healthy toddlers spend at least an hour or more every day outdoors, either at the park or in your own garden. Encourage your toddler to run, play with the ball, climb the jungle gym or let him help you out in gardening.
Happy Toddlers Enjoy Eating Healthy Meals
Good health is linked to what one eats and it is no different for toddlers. Healthy, wholesome meals are essential for toddler health. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and good protein sources, such as fish, eggs, dairy, lean meats or lentils, should be an integral part of your toddler’s diet. However, it may not always be easy to feed toddlers. Variety is key in getting toddlers to eat and also to ensure that they get adequate nourishment from the different food groups. Here are some healthy recipes and meal ideas for toddlers and preschoolers.
Happy Toddlers Learn from Books and Music
Books and music for toddlers are the best entertainment possible. Choose healthy, wholesome music for toddlers. It doesn’t have to be just rhymes or kiddie songs but can be fun, upbeat and enjoyable as long as the words are meaningful and appropriate for a toddler. Books for toddlers offer them a chance to develop vocabulary, build imagination and learn how to be entertained by characters that don’t always sing and dance about as on television.
Happy Toddlers Sleep Well at Night
Good sleep is essential for toddler health. Lack of sleep can not only make toddlers cranky and irritable, it can also affect their health and development. Healthy toddlers sleep well at night and may take a nap during the day. However, as is the case with feeding toddlers, it may be tough to get toddlers to sleep easily. A comfortable bed, the right environment and a relaxing bedtime routine can usually take care of most toddler sleep problems. Here are some more sleep tips and ideas to help toddlers sleep through the night.
Simple parenting tips such as these can help parents give toddlers a healthy and wholesome environment. And through it all, remember toddlers learn best from example. So, lead the way and watch them learn how to have fun without depending on the television, eat healthy foods and get adequate rest and sleep.