Hygiene: Daily brushing is necessary: explain this to your child and
encourage his initiative. Establish with him the time of day when he will
brush. Make sure the child brushes a total of 5 minutes, divided
between the number of daily brushings (usually 2 or 3 per day).
Up until the age of 10, it is important to check your child’s
brushings. At the same time, coach him on his technique and compliment him if
the work has been well done.
Nutrition:
Food choices must be based on their vitality. We must
choose the foods that nature offers, without additives or preservatives.
Involve the young child in healthy food choices and teach him how to read
labels.
All junk foods - sugars, chips, soft drinks, sweetened
juices, jell-o, ice cream, popsicles, chocolate, etc -will enhance cavity
development and predispose your child to infections such as colds, ear
infections, influenza, etc. These foods can lead to hyperactivity, poor
concentration, memory problems and generally reduced physical, mental and
emotional health.
Reward your child’s accomplishments with compliments,
outings and games instead of food.
Three balanced meals and two healthy snacks a day
should be enough to maintain general well-being.
Water is important to carry nutrients through the body and
to eliminate waste products. Encourage your child to drink pure water
throughout the day instead of juices.
Emotions:
Negative emotions can add to body burden and predispose to cavities. Make sure aggressiveness is expressed - not
repressed; have him bite
apples regularly. Your child lives important experiences daily. Problem
solving is learned through sharing worries, dreams, fears and projects. Your
greatest gift to him or her is your time!
