Every Kid Healthy Week, observed from April 21-25, raises awareness about the importance of proper nutrition, physical activity, and learning opportunities for children. This week serves as a reminder to prioritize children’s health and well-being.
A child’s ability to learn is closely linked to their health. Poor nutrition and lack of physical activity can make it harder to focus in school. Skipping meals, for example, can leave growing bodies without the energy needed to concentrate and succeed. Regular meals and a balanced diet provide the fuel necessary for physical and academic growth.
Healthy habits start young. Encouraging children to eat nutritious foods, stay active, and limit screen time helps build a strong foundation for lifelong well-being. Below are simple and effective ways to incorporate healthy habits into daily life.
Healthy living checklist for kids
• Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports growth and development. Meals can be made more fun and nutritious by adding colorful vegetables in creative ways, making healthy eating more appealing.
• Limit screen time to two hours or less per day. Reducing screen time allows for more engagement in physical and social activities. Instead of watching TV or playing video games, encourage outdoor play, family walks or participation in sports to keep kids active.
• Engage in at least one hour of physical activity daily. Movement benefits everyone, not just kids. Incorporating fun activities like bike rides, backyard games, or dance sessions can make exercise enjoyable for the whole family.
• Avoid sugary drinks. Many brightly colored beverages marketed to children contain excessive sugar. Water is the healthiest option. To make it more appealing, try adding slices of fruit for a refreshing twist.
Every Kid Healthy Week serves as a great opportunity to check in on children’s health habits. Making wellness a fun, family-centered experience ensures that health feels less like a chore and more like a natural part of everyday life. Small changes today can lead to lifelong benefits.
For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, visit gethealthycarsoncity.org, or call 775-887-2195. You can visit the CCHHS office at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City or follow CCHHS on Facebook at facebook.com/cchhs, or Instagram at GetHealthyCarsonCity.