As a parent, the choices you make for your child begin even before they are born. From deciding what to feed them to how to discipline them, parenting involves a series of decisions. The choices you make regarding your child’s health have a long-lasting impact on their life. Therefore, it is crucial to approach these decisions with careful thought and access to relevant information. In this article, we will provide some general tips on making healthy parenting choices.

Choose between nursing or formula feeding:

Nursing is a wonderful opportunity for you and your baby to form a strong bond. Human milk contains various essential nutrients and immune factors that help protect your child from germs. According to the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it is recommended to exclusively breastfeed infants for the first six months and continue breastfeeding along with complementary foods for at least one year. However, nursing may not be feasible for everyone due to various reasons such as time constraints, the need for a healthy diet, and frequent feeding sessions. Ultimately, the decision to breastfeed or use formula is a personal one.

If nursing is not an option or you wish to supplement with formula, it is important to choose an iron-fortified formula to ensure your child receives the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.

Safeguard your child’s skin from the sun:

While summers are a great time for kids, it is crucial to protect their skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light, which can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. For babies under six months old, it is recommended to keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible. Providing shade and dressing them in lightweight clothing that covers their arms and legs, along with a hat, can help protect their delicate skin. However, be cautious about overheating and monitor your child for signs of dehydration.

The Food and Drug Administration advises against using sunscreen on babies younger than six months due to the increased risk of side effects. If you intend to use sunscreen for your baby, consult with a pediatrician to choose a formula specifically designed for babies or children. For babies older than six months and all children, it is important to apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if your child is sweating or in the water.

Stay up to date on vaccinations:

Vaccinations play a crucial role in protecting your child from potentially life-threatening illnesses. Vaccines work by introducing a small amount of a germ to your child’s immune system, helping it learn how to respond to that germ in the future. The recommended vaccination schedule can vary based on your child’s age. 

While keeping up with the vaccination schedule might seem overwhelming, your child’s pediatrician will guide you on when the next vaccines are due. It is important to note that vaccinations are not only crucial for young children but also for older children and adolescents. Vaccines such as the human papillomavirus (HPV), annual flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine, meningococcal conjugate vaccine, and tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (Tdap) booster every ten years are recommended and proven to be safe and effective.