Give kids a good start

Back to school building blocks on stacked books pencil and rulerIt is almost never too early to lay the foundation for good health, and there is evidence that a child’s early years and even time during pregnancy can have an important impact later in life.

Together, with the help of healthcare providers, women of childbearing age , pregnant mothers, and new mothers can take steps that could help improve their health as well as the health of their child.

Here are 6 tips on how to give kids a good start:

  1. Try to start pregnancy at a healthy weight
  2. Don’t smoke during pregnancy
  3. Aim for reasonable weight gain during pregnancy
  4. Breastfeed (preferably without other liquids for 4-6 months and some breastfeeding for at least 12 months)
  5. Ensure infants get adequate sleep in the first few years of life
  6. Help children gain weight at a healthy rate