Pediatria

The basic pillars of good child health

The four pillars that we must recognize and strengthen are:

1- A good diet.
2- A good night’s rest.
3- Good emotional health.
4- A good physical condition, spending time outdoors + regular physical activity.

We want the girls and boys of today to enjoy a healthy life, both physically and emotionally; taking care of four basic pillars, especially during early childhood, will greatly benefit their health and well-being.

1- A good diet.

Adequate nutrition is one of the factors that most influence growth and development during the first stages of life.

What are the main recommendations?

Base food at home on healthy foods and not on products. Vegetables, vegetables and fruits, proteins and healthy fats (fish and wild seafood), eggs, meat, extra virgin olive oil, nuts, legumes… Seasonal, local and organic the best!
Make similar menus for the whole family, with the same foods, both at home and in restaurants.
Eat when you are hungry and respect the feeling of satiety.
Enjoy meals and share moments and experiences with family and friends, avoiding the use of screens or other distractions.
Water, water and…water as a drink/refreshment!

2- A good night’s rest.

Having good sleep hygiene helps us rest properly. It is just as important that the little ones at home sleep the necessary hours as it is that the rest is quality.

Tips for a good night’s rest:

Daily activity: during the day, living outside, in contact with sunlight and carrying out varied activities (including physical exercise).
Bedroom: create an optimal environment for rest. A cozy, tidy room with few toys, no noise or artificial light, temperature between 17 and 19 degrees, pajamas and soft bedding, ideally made of natural fabrics.
Light: minimal exposure to artificial light during the last hours of the day. Adapt the light level of the rooms, as it gets dark outside.
Screens: Monitor screen use and limit screen use during the day, avoid screens after dark and around bedtime dinner and go to sleep.
Food: dinner early, as a family, without screens and avoiding processed and poorly digestible foods.

We must bear in mind that nighttime rest is different at each stage of development and for each child. With warm, respectful treatment and always accompanying the needs of our babies and children, the nights will be more pleasant!

3- Good emotional health.

The family is our children’s first emotional learning school. Home is where we all learn to live. Adults accompany children in their growth process, and we have the great opportunity to build healthy pillars that will support them when they grow up.

As mothers and fathers, we need to know them, know what they are really like and not chase how we would like them to be. It is essential to show love, observe them, listen to them and teach them to be aware of all their emotions, validating them.

With environments where children feel comfortable, we will increase their confidence and make the family the most important system for our children.

4- A good physical condition, spending time outdoors + regular physical activity.

Play and physical activity outdoors are very important for children’s intellectual, motor, emotional and social development. It balances and unites the different spheres of learning, integrating these skills into their behavior, improves physical and emotional well-being, and promotes a good night’s rest.

Nature also enhances the imagination and creativity of children, encouraging their autonomy, initiative and independence.

Time together in open and natural environments is quality time and full attention, which the whole family values, enjoys and recognizes.