As parents, keeping our children safe and healthy is our top priority. In a world with many risks, taking simple, proactive steps can make a big difference. From vaccinations to teaching body boundaries, here are practical ways to support your child’s safety and well-being.
I’ve partnered with I Vaccinate to share my story, and this content is sponsored by I Vaccinate.
Nine important tips to help keep your kids healthy and safe:
1. Vaccinations: First line of defense
Vaccines are safe and one of the best ways to protect kids from serious illnesses. Making sure your child gets all recommended shots on schedule helps protect them and contributes to community immunity. With recent cases of measles appearing in Michigan for the first time since 2019, staying up to date with routine checkups and vaccines is more important than ever. Vaccines protect children and teens from 16 vaccine-preventable diseases, including measles, mumps, rubella, polio, and HPV (which can lead to several cancers). Vaccinating reduces the risk of outbreaks and helps protect people who can’t be vaccinated for medical reasons. As a mom and public health advocate, I rely on medical research to make decisions for my family. I chose to vaccinate my children because it’s a proven way to keep them safe. If you have questions, talk with your child’s pediatrician or visit reliable sources like IVaccinate.org.
2. Car seat safety: Buckle up every ride
Always use the right car seat or booster for your child’s age, weight, and height, and make sure it’s installed correctly. Children under 13 should ride in the back seat to lower the risk from airbags.
3. Helmets: Protect their heads
Whether they’re biking, skateboarding, or scooting, kids should wear a properly fitted helmet. Helmets greatly reduce head injury risk. Help build the habit by wearing one with them.
4. Teach body boundaries
Teach children that their bodies belong to them and they can say no to touch that makes them uncomfortable. Use age-appropriate language to explain consent and encourage them to speak up if someone crosses their boundaries—even if it’s someone they know.
5. Teach stranger safety
Talk to kids about how to stay safe around strangers. Teach basic rules, like not accepting gifts or rides without a parent’s permission and finding a trusted adult if they feel unsafe.
6. Healthy habits
Good habits support safety and growth. Encourage regular physical activity, balanced meals, and enough sleep. Kids learn by watching, so model healthy choices.
7. Set screen time limits
Limit screen time and make space for creative play, social time, and physical activity. Try screen-free moments during meals and before bedtime to build healthier habits.
8. Teach hygiene
Show kids why washing hands, brushing teeth twice a day, and covering coughs matter. Use gentle reminders and praise to reinforce these habits.
9. Be prepared for emergencies
Make sure your child knows their full name, address, and how to contact you or other trusted adults. Teach them how to call emergency services like 911 and basic first aid suited to their age. Keep a stocked first aid kit at home and in the car, and discuss a family plan for different emergencies.
Keeping children safe and healthy takes being informed, proactive, and consistent. Small steps and steady routines help create a safe space where kids can grow and thrive. Let’s prioritize our children’s well-being, one preventive step at a time.
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