Children's Health

 child's health includes physical, mental and social well-being. Most parents know the basics of keeping children healthy, like offering them healthy foods, making sure they get enough sleep and exercise and insuring their safety.

It is also important for children to get regular checkups with their health care provider. These visits are a chance to check your child's development. They are also a good time to catch or prevent problems.

Other than checkups, school-age children should be seen for

• Significant weight gain or loss
• Sleep problems or change in behavior
• Fever higher than 102
• Rashes or skin infections
• Frequent sore throats
• Breathing problems

Child Nutrition

Summary

A healthy diet helps children grow and learn. It also helps prevent obesity and weight-related diseases, such as diabetes. To give your child a nutritious diet

• Make half of what is on your child's plate fruits and vegetables
• Choose healthy sources of protein, such as lean meat, nuts, and eggs
• Serve whole-grain breads and cereals because they are high in fiber. Reduce refined grains.
• Broil, grill, or steam foods instead of frying them
• Limit fast food and junk food
• Offer water or milk instead of sugary fruit drinks and sodas

Learn about your children's nutrient requirements. Some of them, such as the requirements for iron and calcium, change as your child ages.