Your child’s skin immunity is their first line of defense against viruses and bacteria. The skin’s natural ability to protect the body against pathogens is important, especially in children who are constantly in close contact with others.

What can you do to boost your child’s skin immunity? It mostly comes down to great health care and nutrition – and a little bit of expert intervention.

Give Them Great Food

Every part of your child’s body and their overall health can be fueled by offering healthy meals and snacks. More fruits and veggies are an important element, as is getting enough lean protein. If you believe your child is not getting sufficient amounts of their vital nutrients, consult your pediatrician about offering a dietary supplement.

Put Them to Bed

More sleep equals better health. This is a simple formula that is true for children just as it is for adults. However, kids need more sleep than grown-ups do, since their bodies are putting energy into growth and development as well as everyday functions. Make sure your child is getting 8-10 hours of sleep every night, with longer stretches recommended for younger children.

Breastfeed Your Baby

If you are pregnant or have recently given birth, you may have put thought into breastfeeding already. If so, know that the choice to breastfeed is one of the best you can make it terms of improving your child’s health. Not only do breastfed babies tend to be much healthier in their infancy, but they are also often healthier in older childhood and beyond. Breast is best when feeding your baby, especially for the first six months of their lives.

Make Sure Your Child is Active

While it may seem counter-intuitive to increase exercise for your child’s skin immunity, adequate exercise is vital to overall health. To protect the skin, just make sure you are applying sunscreen to your child and teaching them proper safety precautions for whatever activities they enjoy. Also be sure that children are properly bathed after being active outdoors or with teammates, as this can lessen the impact of potential pathogens they may encounter there.

Visit Your Pediatrician

Concerned about your child’s skin immunity or overall health? Visit your pediatrician regularly – and see them whenever you have a concern. They can provide important immunizations to keep your child healthy and build immunity inside and out. They can also advise you on the right steps to take to keep your child at their healthiest.

If you’re looking for a Phoenix pediatrician, talk to the experts at Pediatrix. They can guide you on the path toward keeping your kids healthy and strong, more than just skin-deep!