The holiday season is a joyful time filled with family gatherings and festive cheer, but for parents it can also mean a never-ending to-do list that sometimes neglects their health. Between late nights planning events, shopping, and making family memories, keeping everyone healthy can often be overlooked.
Holiday Survival Guide for Parents: Prioritize Health and Happiness
A holiday wellness guide with tips to help the whole family stay healthy and make the season a little easier.
1. Keep your sleep on track (even with all the holiday excitement)
Sleep is often disrupted by various festivals, late-night preparations, and daily disruptions. Good sleep is essential for immunity, so try to stick to a consistent sleep routine as much as possible, especially for children.
Hint: Aim for regular sleep and wake-up times, even if your bedtime is a little later. of Recommended by CDC Younger children should sleep between 9 and 12 hours, while teenagers should sleep between 8 and 10 hours. If your family is well-rested, they are more likely to enjoy the holidays.
2. A balanced festive feast with hydration and conscious eating
Plenty of treats are one of the joys (and challenges) of this season. Enjoy the luxurious taste. However, be sure to balance it out with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and hydration to keep everyone’s energy levels up.
Hint: Bring a reusable water bottle with you when you go out and encourage everyone to take a sip to stay hydrated throughout the day. The CDC suggests aiming for eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day to stay hydrated (CDC).
3. Stay up-to-date on flu shots and medications
Holiday travel and gatherings can increase exposure to germs, so make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Also, don’t forget your regular medications to make sure your prescriptions are filled and ready for your trip. According to American Academy of PediatricsTo reduce the spread of influenza, influenza vaccination is recommended for children 6 months of age and older. Make sure your family has up-to-date vaccinations and have enough prescription medications for your trip.
Hint: Personal medical record apps such as KeepTrackMed Health Record App It helps you set medication reminders, track doses, and stay on top of refill schedules. Upload a photo of your prescription label and all the information will be handy while you travel.
4. Boost your immunity with healthy snacks and outdoor fun
Support your family’s immune system with healthy snacks like yogurt rich in probiotics and mandarin oranges rich in vitamin C to strengthen the immune system (National Institutes of Health). Also, participating in outdoor play and family walks can boost your mood and keep you fit.
Hint: In a personal medical record app, track symptomsSo you can monitor your cold and know when to seek advice if necessary.
5. Manage stress for yourself and your children
Holiday stress can affect anyone, especially when you’re trying to juggle everything. Take breaks, simplify your plans, and remember that it’s okay to decline invitations. Encourage your family to relax by watching movies or doing simple holiday crafts.
Hint: If you notice signs of stress in your child, such as changes in appetite or mood, adjust your plans to create a calm and relaxing holiday environment. For younger children, calming activities such as coloring or reading a favorite story can be helpful. Older children may benefit from quiet time and simple breathing exercises (American Psychological Association).
6. Prepare for your health needs while traveling
Unexpected situations can occur when traveling. So, pack a basic first aid kit, pack any necessary medications in your carry-on, and keep your health insurance information handy.
Hint: By uploading important health documents such as immunization records, allergies, and medical history to your medical app, you’ll be better prepared if a health concern arises while you’re on the go.
A fun and healthy season ahead
By making your health a priority, you can not only enjoy your vacation more, but also reduce stress and create unforgettable memories. Simple steps like staying hydrated, managing stress, and sticking to a routine can make a big difference.
About the author:
Stacy Smith is a freelance health writer. She has a passion for writing about women’s health, dental health, diabetes, endocrinology, and nutrition, and provides in-depth features on the latest health news for clinics and health magazines.
