Becoming a dad is a rollercoaster of emotions; the joyful highs, the gruelling lows and the eternal questions of “Am I doing this right?” It’s a quest filled with challenges and obligations but with all that noise, it’s important to remember what every dad should strive for: family wellness. Whether it’s establishing routines, good values or healthy habits like brushing regularly with a good toothbrush, every small decision can have a big impact.
Start with Yourself
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Many dads don’t realise they are the base of the wellness of the household. Seems like common sense, right? Well, eating well, staying hydrated and moving your body are probably common cliches, but those are essential.
Take, for example, your oral health. Keeping your teeth and gums in a good condition is not vanity. Did you know that if you have gum disease, it can cause other health issues? That’s why a quality toothbrush, to help you maintain a good brushing routine, is important. By safeguarding your teeth, you are safeguarding your health. It’s as simple as that.
Teach Wellness Through Play
Kids are like sponges – they take in everything you do. You can use this vulnerability for good and turn healthy habits into fun games. For example, your child may hate brushing their teeth. Most parents’ battles can be found in their children’s oral care game.
Make brushing teeth a fun family activity. Brush your teeth together and turn it into a 2 minute silly song-toothbrush dance party. Let them choose their toothbrush colour or design. These little purchases excite them because they are part of the routine that forms a lifelong habit. By turning into a fun family activity, their mood will improve, their mouth will be cleaner and parents can get a break from the toothbrush battle.
Routine Is Your Best Friend
The truth is kids love routine; in fact, they thrive on it. They know what’s happening next and things like mealtimes, bedtimes and even playtimes are all important parts of the day. However, that doesn’t mean you have to do everything with military precision. Sure, be silly with your kids and have playtimes when you didn’t plan to but if they know the schedule of the day, it gives them a sense of security and an understanding of what’s expected.
Part of the routine each day should be good hygiene practices. Spotlight Oral Care has the best time-saving, hygiene-ensuring products to help you stick to your wellness plan. Inspire the kids to eat more whole foods: fruits and veggies, whole grains, lean proteins and others.
Fuel the Family with Nutrition
What your family eats matters. Encourage everyone to eat real food – fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Also, make cooking a family activity. It will make you bond and it is a chance to teach your kids the best choices.
When you cook together, you connect and healthy foods help your children make smart choices for their teeth and gums. Flip the script from the sugar. Slice up an apple or let them munch on a carrot. It’s good for their growth and helps clean teeth, a win-win for your oral care playbook.
Sleep Isn’t Just for Babies
You’re a new dad and there may be a part of you that thinks sleep is a thing of the past. However, the whole family needs rest, including your little snuggly bundle of joy. Reducing lighting where the baby sleeps can help. Also, sleep aids can be helpful. Don’t forget about yourself. If you are well-rested, you can tackle your whole parenting journey more easily and you will smile more, which brings us back to oral health!
Lead by Example
The best way to grow wellness in your baby is to show instead of telling. You want your kids to be healthy? Demonstrate. You want your kids to be active? Demonstrate. You want your kids to be happy? Demonstrate.
So, if you want your kids to care about health, they have to see you care about your health. Brush your teeth. Make healthy choices. Take time for yourself. Kids see parents as heroes. Your habits will stick with them for a lifetime. So demonstrate that wellness is not pain; it is a lifestyle that can be fun and rewarding.
