In a world fraught with storms, building on a solid foundation is vital—and the same applies to human life. Life’s challenges, from illnesses to stressors, bombard us throughout our years. Your actions or inactions during your child’s formative years can shape their resilience and well-being in adulthood.
In this post, we’ll guide you on how to ensure your child will grow into a healthy, robust adult by laying the groundwork for their healthy development now.
Good food, regular check ups and safe play are essential for proper child development
Nutrition
Breastfeeding within the first hour of birth is essential. The first milk, colostrum, is packed with antibodies and vitamins vital for your baby’s health. Unless advised otherwise by a doctor, feed your child exclusively with breast milk for the first six months. Breast milk provides all the nutrients your baby needs in perfect proportions and temperature. Studies show that exclusively breastfed children have higher IQs and are less likely to develop allergies.
At six months, introduce complementary foods to provide a balanced diet, such as enriched pap, tom-brown, mashed fish, bananas, beans, eggs, or sweet potatoes. These nutrients are crucial for brain and body development, preventing malnutrition. Malnourished children may suffer lifelong learning difficulties, stunted growth, or complications during childbirth in adulthood.
Immunization
Immunization protects your child from serious, preventable diseases and contributes to public health by reducing disease prevalence. For instance, smallpox has been eradicated, and polio is nearing elimination.
Vaccinate your child against diseases like tuberculosis, hepatitis B, measles, polio, meningitis, and tetanus. Nigeria now offers vaccines for malaria and cervical cancer. Visit your nearest health center to check the immunization schedule and ensure your child stays up to date.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Good hygiene is critical for your child’s health. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and running water before preparing meals, and ensure others do the same. Teach your child to wash their hands before eating and after using the toilet to prevent diarrheal diseases, which can be life-threatening.
Bathe your child daily and keep your environment clean, with grass trimmed and refuse disposed of properly—either burned or handled by waste disposal services.
Early Psychosocial Development
Childhood is a crucial time for social and cognitive growth. Don’t let your child only watch TV. Encourage activities like playing with puzzles, Lego, and peers. Depending on their age, ensure they get 1–3 hours of physical activity daily. Younger children need more play.
Monitor developmental milestones using the immunization card. If you notice delays, seek medical attention promptly.
Conclusion
The first few years of life are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lay a sturdy foundation for your child’s health and future. By prioritizing proper nutrition, timely immunizations, good hygiene, and fostering psychosocial development, you equip them with the tools they need to thrive in a challenging world. Start today—because every small step makes a big difference.
