As parents, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our children. In a world full of potential risks, taking proactive steps to keep our little ones safe and healthy can make a big difference in their health. From vaccinations to setting body boundaries, here are some essential preventative steps you can take to promote your child’s overall safety and wellness.

I’ve partnered with I Vaccinate to share my story and this content is sponsored by I Vaccinate.

Here are nine essential tips to keep your kids healthy and safe:

1. Vaccinations: First Defense Against Preventable Diseases

Vaccines are safe and are one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious diseases. By ensuring your child receives all recommended vaccinations according to the schedule provided by healthcare professionals, you’re not only safeguarding their health but also contributing to community immunity. With the first cases of measles being identified in Michigan since 2019, it’s critical to make sure that families stay on track for children’s routine checkups and stay up to date on recommended vaccinations. Vaccines protect our children and teens from 16 vaccine-preventative diseases, such as measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and HPV (which can cause six types of cancer). Vaccinating children is so important for reducing the risk of outbreaks and protecting those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

As a mom and a public health advocate, I lean on medical science and research to guide me on health and wellness decisions for my children. I’ve chosen to vaccinate my children because research has shown that it is one of the most effective ways to protect children from preventative diseases. My priority as a parent is to keep my children safe and healthy and routine vaccinations are a part of that plan. It’s normal to have questions as a parent, but I urge you to discuss your concerns with your child’s pediatrician or with credible sources, such as IVaccinate.org.

2. Car Seat Safety: Buckle Up for Every Ride

Proper car seat use is non-negotiable when it comes to child safety in vehicles. Make sure your child is always buckled up in an appropriate car seat or booster seat, based on their age, weight, and height. Additionally, remember that children under 13 should always ride in the back seat to minimize the risk of injury from airbags.

3. Helmets

Whether biking, skateboarding, or riding a scooter, wearing a helmet is a must for kids engaging in wheeled activities. A properly fitted helmet can reduce the risk of head injuries significantly in the event of a fall or collision. Encourage your child to make helmet-wearing a habit from an early age, setting a positive example by wearing one yourself whenever you ride together.

4. Teaching Body Boundaries

Educating children about body boundaries is essential for their safety and well-being. Teach them that their bodies belong to them, and no one should touch them in ways that make them feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Use age-appropriate language to explain the concept of consent and empower your child to speak up if someone violates their boundaries. Reinforce the message that it’s okay to say no to unwanted physical contact, even if it’s from someone they know and trust.

5. Teach Stranger Danger

Educate your children about personal safety and how to recognize and respond to potentially dangerous situations. Teach them about stranger danger, including basic safety rules such as not talking to strangers or accepting gifts from them without permission from their parents.

6. Healthy Lifestyle Habits

In addition to specific safety measures, promoting a healthy lifestyle can also contribute to your child’s overall safety and well-being. Encourage regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep to support their growth and development. Model healthy behaviors yourself, as children often learn by example.

7. Set Screen Time Limits

Limit your children’s screen time and encourage activities that promote creativity, social interaction, and physical activity. Establish designated screen-free times, such as during meals or before bedtime, to promote healthier habits and reduce the risk of excessive screen use.

8. Teach Proper Hygiene Practices

Educate your children about the importance of good hygiene habits, such as washing their hands regularly, brushing their teeth twice a day, and cough etiquette (use tissues, cough into the elbow, wash hands, etc.). Reinforce these habits through gentle reminders and positive reinforcement.

9. Emergency Preparedness: Being Ready for the Unexpected

It’s essential to be prepared for emergencies. Ensure your child knows their full name, address, and how to reach you or other trusted adults in case of an emergency. Teach them how to dial emergency services such as 911 and instruct them on basic first aid skills appropriate for their age. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit at home and in your car, and discuss a family emergency plan outlining what to do in various scenarios.

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Keeping our children safe and healthy is our number one goal as a parent. Staying informed, proactive and encouraging healthy habits for our children is so important for fostering an environment where our children can grow and thrive. Let’s commit to prioritizing the safety and well-being of our little ones, one preventative measure at a time.