Catholic Activity: Daily Physical Care for Your Child

Some suggestions for raising healthy children.

DIRECTIONS

In the life of your child there is no time when he is so young that it doesn't matter. Although a child of preschool age becomes increasingly independent at this stage in life, he nevertheless demands constant care, so that his body may be sound and strong. Though he can do many things for himself, he cannot be permitted to depend on his own judgment. You must see to it that he rests sufficiently and well, that he eats good wholesome food, and eats it cheerfully, and that he has the necessary amount of fresh air and sunshine. Teeth, posture, weight, and clothing all need your careful attention.

You consult your doctor in order to guard the health of your child, and you may prudently supplement his advice with books on physical development. Often, simple charts are used by parents to encourage good health habits in the older preschool child. An attractive chart with the days of the week in large squares is helpful to mark duties performed, such as teeth-brushing and hair-combing. It is the careful blending of small everyday habits which merge into a pattern of wholesome living.

Activity Source: From Stroller to School, Parent-Educator Series 2, Leaflets 13-24, Three to Six Years by Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, 1962