Simple Steps to Help Your Child Stay Healthy and Safe

Staying healthy isn’t just about what happens at the doctor’s office. It’s also about the world around our children, like their homes, their schools, and the air they breathe. At MetroHealth, we want to help every child reach their goals. And with over 16 locations offering Children’s Health services, we are here to help your family stay strong all year long.

“The well child and preventative visits are important opportunities for pediatricians to partner with parents to help keep children healthy and safe. During these visit pediatricians take the time to educate parents and address questions and concerns” says Candis Platt-Houston, MD, Division Director of General Pediatrics at MetroHealth.

Making Your Home a Safe Place

Children’s bodies and brains are still growing, so they can be more sensitive to things in their environment. Here are a few easy ways to keep their spaces safe:

• Fresh Air: Dust, mold, and smoke can make it hard for kids to breathe. You can help by changing the air filters in your home and keeping your house smoke-free. This helps prevent breathing problems like asthma.
• Check for Lead: Some older homes (built before 1978) have lead paint. This can be dangerous for small children. Ask your doctor about a quick lead test for kids ages 1 to 3.
• Safe Play Areas: Walk through your home to look for sharp edges or small items kids could choke on. Always keep cleaning supplies and medicine in locked cabinets.

The Power of the Yearly Check-Up

Life gets busy with school and sports, but don't forget your child's yearly physical! These visits are about more than just getting shots. They are a time for you to talk to your doctor about:

• How they grow: Making sure your child is meeting goals for their age.
• How they feel: Talking about stress and how they are doing emotionally.
• Body basics: Checking their vision, hearing, and the food they eat.

Regular checkups start early. If you have a new baby, learn what to expect at pediatrician visits from birth through 15 months.

Simple Steps for Your Family

You don’t have to change everything at once. Small steps lead to big healthy habits!

Here is a simple plan to get started:

• Open the Windows: When it’s nice outside, let some fresh air in. Just check the local air quality report first.
• Pick Water: Choose water instead of sugary drinks.
• Move Every Day: Try to get 60 minutes of active play time. Also, try making bedrooms "screen-free" zones at night.
• Eat the Rainbow: Try to add more colorful fruits and vegetables to every meal.
• Check the Calendar: If your child hasn’t had a check-up in the last year, give us a call today!