(12 April 2019) Term one is done and dusted, but now you have the kids under your feet for the next two weeks.  Often when the family stops to take a breath, the fatigue and sickness creep in, resulting in the kids spending some of the holidays on the couch recuperating.  With some simple tips you can keep the kids happy, healthy and active for the holidays, sending them back to school relaxed and refreshed. (But remember, general tips is no substitute for medical advice your your chosen healthcare professional).

1.          __  Go easy on the chocolate.__

It’s a bit hard to avoid at Easter, but balancing out the chocolate with the healthy alternatives will ensure that the kids stay on an even keel.  Besides being high in calories, too much chocolate can also cause headaches, tooth decay, sleeplessness and acne.  Try to limit consumption of Easter eggs, and at the very least, make sure they don’t eat their stash all at once.

2.         __   Get outdoors.__

Fresh air and exercise can do wonders for mood, energy levels and later in the day, sleep.  Encourage the kids to get out on their bikes, play games or go to the park, topping up their vitamin D and exercising their imaginations as well as their bodies.

3.       __     Rest/relax/recharge.__

Kids have very busy lives these days with activities before and after school.  Let them have some downtime to rest and recuperate from their hectic schedules.  School-aged children need nine hours of sleep at night, so take the opportunity to let them sleep in, so they can recharge ready for the next school term.

4.       __     Fend off germs.__

Public places such as airports and shopping centres tend to be much busier during the school holidays, with lots of crowds milling together causing increased spread of germs.  Encourage your kids to wash their hands often, not share drinks, and to stay home if they have the sniffles.  Getting a flu shot will help prevent your child from contracting influenza.  Depending on the age of your child and where you live, the flu shot may be free. 

5.        __    Catch up on appointments.__

The holidays are an ideal time to schedule health appointments for your children such as dentist appointments, sight or hearing tests or GP check-ups.  If your child needs to see a GP, why not schedule an appointment with a SwiftDoc GP.  We can have a consult with yourself and your child from the comfort of your home on your PC, tablet or phone. 

Remember that SwiftDoc is for mums and dads too!  If the kids are at home and you have no time for yourself, SwiftDoc is at hand for all your medical and prescription needs.  Just book an appointment and we’ll see you on your smartphone. 

Enjoy your break, and remember wherever in Australia you choose to spend your holidays we are just a video consultation away.

This website does not provide medical advice.  It is intended for informational purposes only.  It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.  Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment.  If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately dial Triple 0 (000).