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7 Healthy Habits to Start With Your Child in the New Year

7 Healthy Habits to Start With your Child in the New Year

It’s 2026, and it’s the perfect time to boost your family’s health and well-being. If you have kids, why not kick off the new year with fun, healthy resolutions together? But where to start?

Start the new year with happy, healthy kids! Dr. Sindu Pillai and her friendly team offer well-child visits, behavioral evaluations, and weight checks to help your child thrive. As a caring pediatrician, she shares easy, practical tips to help your family stay healthy year-round.

Essential healthy habits for your kids

Resolutions are everywhere right now, and if you have kids, why not make their health a top priority for 2026?

Starting the year with healthy habits can be fun and rewarding! Our top seven tips will help you and your child start 2026 on the right foot:

1. Practice good hygiene

Kick off the year with awesome hygiene routines for your kids! Show them how to wash their hands after play and before meals, and make brushing teeth morning and night a fun habit. Turn showers or baths into enjoyable rituals for a fresh start every day.

2. Get daily exercise

Getting moving is a blast for your child’s health! Instead of screen time marathons, encourage daily adventures, play outside, and join in activities together. Make exercise a daily family celebration!

3. Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet is a simple, tasty way to take charge of your child’s health. Invite them to explore whole foods, including protein, fruits, and veggies. Challenge your family to limit overly processed foods and sweets together.

4. Limit screen time

Too much screen time can make your child’s eyes tired and disrupt their sleep. It may also cut into their active playtime and cause other challenges. Try swapping screens for family fun or movement instead!

5. Establish open communication

Chat with your child every day about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. When you keep the conversation open, your child will feel safe coming to you with anything that’s on their mind.

6. Make a calm bedtime routine

Trade screen time for a calming routine your child will love. Dim the lights, read together, and help them wind down for sweet dreams and restful nights.

7. Keep your child hydrated

Keep your child energized and happy by encouraging water breaks throughout the day! Skip the soda and reach for water or occasional electrolyte drinks, especially after playtime or sports.

Avoid problems with regular visits

Start the year strong by keeping your child healthy and happy with regular pediatrician visits. With each visit, Dr. Pillai help your child thrive with preventive screenings focused on wellness.

Regular visits are also a good time to discuss your child’s growth and weight, as well as any health issues that arise. The appointments give you and Dr. Pillai a chance to discuss your child’s overall health and address any concerns you may have.

Spotting issues early, such as a significant weight gain or behavioral problems, gives us a better chance of addressing them before they become much larger. We offer tips and lifestyle changes to help manage potential health issues with your child.

We also provide a customized plan for your child’s growth and development, equipping them with the resources to lead a healthy, productive lifestyle.

Give your child the gift of great health! Call our Murrieta, California, office today to book a well-child visit with Dr. Pillai, or click here to schedule your consultation and start your family’s healthiest year yet.

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