Every parent wants their child to thrive, and one of the best ways to set them up for success is by helping them build healthy habits early.
These small but impactful routines can shape their physical and mental wellbeing for years. Here's how you can encourage your child to develop habits that stick.
Start with the basics
Healthy habits don't have to be complicated, especially if you haven't implemented them. Start slowly and begin with simple, everyday practices1:
- Stick to a routine: This means regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and study schedules, which provide structure and security
- Get them moving: Your children need around an hour of exercise every day. You can start small by encouraging them to walk to school, join a sports team, or go to the park. Make sure they’re wearing sunscreen when they’re outside!
- Ensure a nutritious diet: Include various fruits, vegetables, proteins, and whole grains to teach your child the value of balanced meals. Aim for at least five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit daily.
- Keep them hydrated: Part of a nutritious diet is keeping them hydrated. Ensure your kids are drinking plenty of water and supplement with Hydralyte if they’re feeling dehydrated.
- Set age-appropriate chores: Encourage your child to tidy their room, make their bed and get dressed for school. You can even turn chores into a game, like setting a timer to see how fast they can clean their room!
- You can’t be too prepared: Have a range of health essentials on standby, including a first-aid kit, cough and cold relief for children and immune-supporting supplements so you can tackle whatever health issues come your way.
Try not to use food as a bribe, as this can make your child more interested in treats and suggests that eating healthy food is a chore.
Be their role model
Children are like little sponges; they watch everything you do and want to follow your lead.
Some things they may learn from you include2:
- How you interact with others, including how you talk to your partner and your friends
- Everyday habits, like washing your hands before dinner, what you eat as a snack
- Your attitudes, including how you react to trying new foods and how you feel about your body
Keep this in mind if you want them to adapt new healthy habits.
If they see Mum or Dad drinking soft drinks, they may follow your lead and want soft drinks too.
Your child's emotional health can also play a large part in how they adapt to new habits. Try to focus on their efforts instead of what they've achieved and help them name their feelings when they're feeling overwhelmed.
Give it time
Healthy habits take time to develop, so be patient and consistent.
Every step you take helps your child build a foundation for lifelong wellbeing.
If you'd like more tips or advice, visit your local Blooms The Chemist Pharmacist—we're here to support your family's health journey!
References:
1NSW Government, 8 Healthy Habits, accessed 23 January 2025
2Hawkins Medical, Get Set 4 Life - Habits for Healthy Kids, accessed 23 January 2025