Early childhood is a prime time to help children begin to establish behaviors that will promote a healthy lifestyle. In order to develop healthy habits, two things must be remembered. First, learning becomes more meaningful when the experience is woven into the children’s daily experiences. Second, learning experiences must be repeated often enough until the lessons become a natural and integral part of their lives.

Lesson # 1: Good Handwashing

Good handwashing requires three elements– soap, water and friction. Everyone should wash hands before and after eating, using the bathroom, handling nappies, blowing into a handkerchief or tissue, cleaning, doing art projects, or playing with toys. Proper handwashing can significantly reduce transmission of infections.

Lesson # 2: Getting Enough Sleep

Studies show lack of sufficient sleep can contribute to inattention, hyperactivity, and disagreeableness among children. Most children’s sleep requirements fall within a predictable range of hours based on their age. However, there is no magical number of sleeping hours required as each child would have his own distinct sleep needs.

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