Tips for Keeping Your Children Healthy This Fall

Updated July 2020. 

As we begin to head into fall, keep these tips in mind so your children can stay healthy and strong. 

1. Keep their hands clean

Your children are likely exposed to millions of germs a day. Try to remind them to wash their hands often (at least three or four times a day). This will help prevent germs from spreading and decrease the risk of illness. 

If frequent handwashing doesn't feel feasible, hand sanitizer is a great alternative.

2. Feed them breakfast every morning

Eating a well-balanced breakfast sets the tone for the rest of the day and boosts academic performance. Try to incorporate protein into these morning meals. Eggs, peanut butter, and yogurt are all great sources of protein.

If your children aren't huge breakfast fans, try making it fun! Ask them to list five foods they would enjoy in the morning (and they don’t need to be typical breakfast foods). You could also take your children to the grocery store and let them pick out their own breakfast foods.

3. Make sure they get enough sleep

Similarly to diet, sleep can improve focus, concentration, and academic performance. Getting enough rest may also lower the risk of health concerns including type 2 diabetes, reduced mental health, and injuries. The recommended hours of sleep per day varies based on age:

• 6-12 years: 9-12 hours
• 13-18 years: 8-10 hours

4. Have an online visit

Sometimes, no matter how many precautions you take, your child will still get sick. When this happens, you can have a video visit with an Amwell doctor 24/7. Have a visit today!