How to raise happy and healthy kids in Hong Kong
1st of June marks International Children’s Day around the world. As parents, we want to keep our kids happy and healthy and protect them from all dangers in the world, especially now, in times of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. With schools in Hong Kong reopening, the everyday “normal” will be disrupted for some time, however, certain golden rules and parenting tips are always true. And that is what today’s Pacific Prime Hong Kong’s article is about: tips on how to raise happy and healthy kids in Hong Kong – in times of pandemic, or not.
Plan a healthy pregnancy
When planning to have a baby in Hong Kong as an expat, the first thing that comes to mind is Hong Kong maternity insurance, which can offset high medical costs related to pregnancy and giving birth here. Taking supplements, such as folic acid, and going on routine Ob-Gyn visits to take pregnancy screenings and other tests is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Besides that, mothers should learn about stages of pregnancy, including how to bond with a baby, and about all possible risks that can arise from underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or overweight, and know what to expect from different stages of pregnancy.
Get check-ups and vaccinations
Routine check-ups, including dental and eye exams, help identify ways to stay healthy, provide the opportunity to receive preventive services and treatment, and diagnose health problems early. Vaccinations help prevent many diseases and save lives. This is why newborn children must undergo a series of vaccinations for their healthy and safe development. These and other medical costs can be covered in a newborn insurance plan, which is highly recommended to all expat couples here in Hong Kong.
Show how to live a healthy lifestyle
Kids learn from their family, friends, media, school etc. However, a parents’ influence is always the strongest, and you can help your kids to develop skills to make safe and healthy choices every day. These can include fastening seat belts, wearing helmets, applying sunscreen, brushing teeth, washing hands, eating healthy, and watching less TV.
By living a healthy lifestyle, you can set a good example for your kids to follow. More specifically, you can focus on these three healthy life aspects:
Provide healthy meals and snacks
Eating right will help to provide your kids with the nutrients needed to have energy, build strong bones, and fight diseases. For newborn babies, breastfeeding is best, and as children grow, you can help them choose healthy meals and snacks, especially in the form of fruits and vegetables. Moreover, you can ask your friends to not always bring sweet treats for your children when they visit, and check if the kindergarten, or school your kids attend, offer healthy meal options.
Keep your kids active
Try to keep your kids active for at least 1 hour a day. Include activities that raise their breathing and heart rates to strengthen their muscles and bones. Examples of fun, safe, and active things you can do with your kids in Hong Kong include hiking, going to the beach, free play, cycling, and organizing play dates with other families with children.
Provide love and support
It’s important for kids to develop in a safe, loving, and secure environment. It is important to commit as much parenting time to your kids, so they grow up to be physically and mentally healthy adults. Find out what’s happening in your kids’ daily lives and how they are making decisions and handling problems. Respond to their physical and emotional needs; sometimes just simply being there is already an important step in showing your children you care.
At Pacific Prime Hong Kong, we care about our client’s health and wellbeing as well. As one of the leading expat insurance brokers in Hong Kong, we have over 20 years of experience advising clients in choosing the best medical policy based on their needs and budgets.
Ask us about details and potential discounts for family medical insurance plans in Hong Kong, and about anything insurance-related – our consultants are just a call, or e-mail away.
When she isn’t writing, you are most likely to find Elwira in search of the perfect plant-based burger or enjoying Hong Kong’s great outdoors either at the beach or from the boat - the closer to the sea, the better!
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