Child Health Month

A Lifetime of Good Health

Parents have an opportunity to give their children a gift that can last a lifetime: healthy living.

October is Child Health Month in the U.S. and a reminder that good health practices learned in childhood can mean a better quality - and length - of life.

"Lessons learned as children can translate into a healthier life," says J. Nick Baird, M.D., state health director. "Something as simple as teaching a child to practice good hand washing can mean less colds and other infections throughout a lifetime."

Dr. Baird offered these tips for having healthier children, and helping them to maintain that health beyond childhood:

• Make sure your child's immunizations are current, including tetanus.
  
• A good breakfast each day will help you feel better and be more productive.
  
• Eat at least five fruits or vegetables a day to maintain good health.
  
• Always thoroughly wash your hands after using the bathroom and before preparing or eating food.
  
• Regular exercise will make you feel better, help you live longer, and improve the quality of your.
  
• Using child safety seats and seat belts saves lives.
  
• Wearing recommended safety equipment at play or work helps to prevent painful injuries.
  
• Tobacco robs people of their health - and kills too many of them.
  
• Alcohol and other drugs should be avoided.
  

"All of these tips reinforce the message that the most precious gift we can give our children is good health - and provides them with the tools they need to maintain that good health throughout their lives," says Dr. Baird.

Last Updated: 09/29/2000