Tips for a Healthier New Year

January 2008

Happy 2008! This month, Nurse Rona Renner, host of the radio show Childhood Matters and the parenting expert for the Bay Area Discovery Museum, suggests ways to make this a healthier new year for all.

Q. I always say that I’m going to do things differently “this year.”  Can you suggest any New Year’s resolutions that even busy parents can achieve?

A. A new year is a great time to make a fresh start, which is why so many of us vow to start an exercise routine or lose 20 pounds.  But even small (and probably more doable) changes can make a big difference in our lives.

I recently came across a wonderful list of “parenting new year’s resolutions” compiled by the American Academy of Pediatrics. I think putting even just one of the following into practice could lead to a healthier and happier 2008 for your whole family:

• Engage in public displays of affection. Show your kids love, attention and approval, and demonstrate how to ask for and give forgiveness.  You’ll not only promote positive self-esteem, but also help reduce the likelihood of aggressive or negative behavior.

• Set limits for your children.  It’s okay to say no and set boundaries for even young children.  Let your kids know what’s expected of them; notice and praise them when they meet your expectations.

• Make your home and car smoke-free zones.  Second-hand smoke increases ear and chest infections, not to mention a host of adult-onset illnesses.  If you or someone close to you smokes, now is a great time to try quitting. 

• Practice “safety on wheels.”  Make sure everyone is buckled up for every car ride, with your kids in the back in age-appropriate safety seats.  Do your kids like to bike, skate or scooter?  Check that they’re wearing helmets at all times. 

• Do a “childproofing” survey of your home. Look at your house from a child’s perspective.  Are there sharp edges or places to fall?  Are knives or household cleansers accessible if a chair is dragged over to the cabinet or counter?  Removing such “booby traps” will make you all feel safer.

• Monitor your children’s media.  Talk with your kids about what they see and hear on television, movies or the Internet.  If you feel that a show or Web site is inappropriate, shut it off and redirect them to more suitable programming.

If there’s only one resolution you can keep this year, I suggest you make it this one: Make your children feel loved and important every day.  Celebrate their individuality, recognize their efforts and tell them what makes them special.  That’s a surefire way to make this a great 2008!

Rona Renner, RN, hosts the parenting radio show Childhood Matters, every Sunday from 9-10 AM on 98.1 KISS-FM.  Do you have a question about parenting? Sleep?  Setting limits?  Send it to asknurserona@badm.org