LORI SMITH, MD, of CHPG Pediatrics - Firestone, offers these
proven tips for parents:
1. Be consistent. "This is particularly important during early
development," Dr. Smith emphasizes. "Having established patterns
for meal time and bedtime helps children develop cognitively. The
better parents become at getting their little ones to bed calmly and
helping them learn to self-soothe, the healthier it is for everyone.
Studies show this carries into adulthood and affects how children
adapt to peers and stressors in life."
2. Feed them well. "Good nutrition includes serving a variety
of foods, introducing new foods regularly and demonstrating what
healthy eating looks like. Minimize eating out. It's been shown that
children who dine out more have a higher incidence of prediabetes."
3. Brush those baby teeth. "Good dental care is extremely
important in the lifelong health of the child. Establish a positive
relationship with a dentist early and make dental hygiene part of
every day."
4. Let them play with other kids. "Find opportunities to let them
be with children their own age—and other ages—as they grow. It
helps them develop, begin building their own sense of community
and just have fun."
5. Take care of yourself. "We all have our stressors. Time.
Money. Family differences. But if parents can't take care of
themselves, they won't be able to do what's right for their kids.
Don't think you can argue with your partner without affecting your
children. They pick up on even the smallest clues. Remember your
family is a caring unit—and you are caring for everyone."
›
CHPG Pediatrics - Firestone is located at 6600 Firestone Blvd.,
Firestone, CO 80503. Call 720-408-7436 to schedule an
appointment.
Raising a child is the ultimate do-it-yourself
project. There are no printed instructions,
and you're never quite sure you're doing it
right. It's messy and exhausting, but at the
end of the day, nothing is sweeter or more
satisfying—and you wouldn't trade your
"project" for any other kid on earth.
5
TRYING TO FIND A PEDIATRICIAN FOR
YOUR CHILD?
• Talk to your friends with kids.
• Consult with your insurance.
• Meet face to face. This is a very important partnership
you're building. You want to make certain you "click."
Zander, Levi, Tegan and Gabriel—happy and healthy
brothers—receive care from CHPG Pediatrics - Firestone.
Dr. Smith holds one
of her youngest
patients, Lyla.
TIPS
for happier, healthier kids
303-651-5111 LUHCARES.ORG / 3
