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Leading Your Child Through Healthy Decision-Making

As a parent, teaching your child how to make healthy choices is one of the most important things you can do for them. Not only does it set them up for success in life, but it also helps them avoid the many health problems that come from poor decisions. Fortunately, you can lead your child through healthy decision-making by incorporating a few habits into your routine. Salem For All has provided tips for doing just that!

Pursue a College Degree

Your child needs to see that you can set and accomplish goals for yourself. Getting an online degree can give you the flexibility you need to still be there for your family while pursuing your own dream. And when you show your child that it’s never too late to learn and better yourself, they’ll be more likely to pursue their own dreams too.

Also, keep in mind that the earlier you start talking to your kids about their future, the sooner they can start preparing. By going after a dream you’ve been holding off on for so long, you can inspire your child to pursue their dreams in life. Maybe you want to return to school for a business degree to advance your career or start a company. Or, perhaps you’ll decide to get a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education to help preschoolers build a firm foundation for their learning experiences (this may be a good option).

Exhibit Leadership Skills in Your Life

One of the best ways to encourage your child to make healthy choices is to lead by example. If you want your child to be a leader, start by exhibiting leadership skills in your own life. Show them how to be assertive but also respectful, how to stand up for what’s right, and how to take responsibility for their actions.

Encourage Your Child to Exercise

Exercise is critical for physical and mental health. It can help improve mood, reduce stress, and increase focus and concentration. That’s why it’s so important to encourage your child to exercise from an early age. Family activities like going on walks or bike rides together are great ways to get everyone moving while spending quality time together.

Teach Your Child About Nutritious Foods

What we eat has a big impact on our overall health, so it’s essential that we teach our children about nutritious foods from an early age. Involve your kids in choosing healthy options at the grocery store, and explain why those options are better for them than unhealthy alternatives.

When cooking at home, include them in the process as much as possible so they can see how easy it is to make healthy meals with whole, nutritious ingredients. And don’t forget that teaching by example is always the best way forward; if you’re eating healthy yourself, chances are your kids will too!

Help Them Navigate the Temptations of Adolescence

Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol are all too easy for kids to get their hands on these days. That’s why it’s so important that we help them navigate the temptations they’ll inevitably face as they grow up. Talk openly with them about the dangers of drug and alcohol use, and allow them to ask any questions they have. Help them understand that peer pressure is normal but that they always have the right to say no if they feel uncomfortable in any situation.

Conclusion

Helping your child make good choices is critical for their life now and in the future. Consider enrolling in an online program and determine how you can show better leadership skills in your own life. Teach your child about healthy eating, physical fitness, and the temptations they encounter (or will encounter) daily. And remember to practice the healthy choices you’re encouraging your child to make. They're watching you, even when you don’t realize it!

Would you like to read more helpful content or learn how we help individuals and families with low income? Visit SalemForAll.org today!