Light House Denver – Many people eagerly anticipate the Christmas and New Year holidays, especially those who live far from home and plan to return to their families or travel for a vacation. Long journeys during this holiday period often present various challenges, such as bad weather and traffic jams. Especially the health of children’s health who accompany their parents on the trip.
For parents, maintaining their children’s health during the journey remains a top priority. Children have more vulnerable immune systems compared to adults, which makes them more susceptible to illness or fatigue. In this regard, Dr. Ratih Puspita, SpA, a pediatric specialist, shares some useful tips to help parents take care of their children’s health during holiday travel.
Parents should first pay attention to their child’s rest and meal schedules. During the trip, a child’s eating or sleeping time may get disrupted due to unpredictable travel conditions. However, Dr. Ratih reminds parents not to neglect these essential times. If it’s time for the child to eat or take a nap, parents should not force the child to continue activities or travel. “Do not skip or delay your child’s eating or sleeping time, even though the journey continues,” she says.
Adequate sleep plays a crucial role in supporting the child’s immune system. Helping them stay healthy and less prone to illness. Regular sleep also helps maintain the child’s mood and energy levels, even during long, exhausting trips. Therefore, even if the journey takes several hours, parents should still ensure their child has the chance to rest according to their normal sleep schedule.
Maintaining a balanced diet is just as important. Dr. Ratih emphasizes that a nutritious diet helps children maintain their stamina. During trips, fast food, which is often unhealthy, might seem like an easy option. Although convenient, such food should not be the primary choice for children. Parents should prepare healthier food options, such as fruits, vegetables, or nutrient-rich snacks, for their children to consume during the trip.
It’s equally important to ensure children stay properly hydrated. Many children tend to drink less water during long trips, especially when they get distracted by activities or games. Staying hydrated remains essential for maintaining their health, preventing dehydration, and supporting their metabolic system. Therefore, parents should ensure their children drink enough water throughout the trip. They should avoid giving sugary or caffeinated drinks, as they can cause dehydration.
Apart from food, sleep, and hydration, protecting children from extreme weather changes is also crucial. During long trips, children often face weather conditions different from what they are accustomed to, such as cold temperatures in mountainous areas or hot weather in tropical regions. To prevent health issues, parents should make sure their child wears clothing suitable for the destination’s weather. Using hats or sun protection gear can also protect children from harmful UV rays.
For parents traveling by car or public transportation, Dr. Ratih advises maintaining the child’s comfort during the journey. For example, adjusting the child’s seating position helps them sit comfortably and move around freely. If the trip lasts a long time, parents should not hesitate to take breaks so their child can move and avoid stiffness.
Overall, keeping children healthy during Christmas and New Year travel requires special attention. In addition to ensuring children get enough food, sleep, and hydration, parents must also consider factors like weather conditions, comfort during the journey, and protection from illness. By keeping these aspects in mind, parents can help their children stay healthy, cheerful, and energetic, even during long trips. With proper care, the holidays will become much more enjoyable without the worry of health issues affecting the child.
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