Should you need urgent health advice please contact your GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency please visit A&E or call 999

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Healthy habits, happy kids: Advice for parents

The small choices you make as a parent or carer can have a big impact on your child’s health. Take a look at this video to learn more about healthy choices you can make throughout the day.

Here are some tips on making healthier choices for your child:

  • Make sure teeth are brushed for two minutes, you should do this in the morning and evening.
  • Ensure your child eats a balanced breakfast, which will help them to concentrate throughout the morning.
  • If you’re making a packed lunch, replace high fat and sugary snacks with healthy alternatives
  • Try offering your child a range of healthy foods to understand their likes and dislikes.
  • Encourage your child to drink plenty of water during the day and provide them with a water bottle when they are at school.
  • Avoid highly processed foods in the evenings too. Provide balanced meals instead with plenty of vegetables and protein
  • Switch off screens at least an hour before bedtime so that your child can wind down and get a good night’s sleep.

Useful links

ChatHealth Logo

Hertfordshire Community NHS Trust runs a confidential secure text messaging service for parents of children aged 0-5 years called ChatHealth. The service operates Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm, excluding bank holidays. All texts will be responded to by a health visitor within 24 hours. Outside of the service working hours, you’ll receive a message back to inform you that your text will be responded to once the service reopens.

  • ChatHealth messaging service:

    text

    07480 635164
  • Family Centre Service (Health Visiting and Family Support):

    phone

    0300 123 7572

Should you require urgent health advice in the meantime, please contact your GP, visit an NHS walk-in centre or call NHS 111. For emergencies, dial 999 or visit A&E.

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Page last reviewed: 28-06-2023

Next review due: 28-06-2026