Nurturing Happy Hearts

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February is National Heart Month and a great time to self reflect on how we love and care for the young hearts in our lives. We, moms, are always protecting & nurturing our children’s hearts; from the very moment we hear their first tiny heartbeat to the day they come home complaining about someone hurting their feelings.

NHHAs part of my own self-reflection journey as a mom, I have jotted down my perspectives below about how to love and care for young hearts.

Nutrient-Rich food that fuels their body to grow & thrive – We want our kids to live a long, healthy, active, and happy life. Teaching kids to eat healthy is part of the fundamental knowledge that all kids need to know in order to grow up to live healthy & happy lives. It is very important to start planting the seeds of healthy eating choices in their early years just like we do about brushing teeth or how to safely cross the street. They need to learn how to take care of their bodies and make wise choices for their health especially when we are not around.

Having said that, finding ways for my kids to enjoy a healthy treat can be challenging at times. What works best for us, is when the little guys wear the chef’s hat and help me out in the kitchen. As a result of this experience and taking time to actively see, smell, feel, and taste food while cooking, they recognize the importance of also taking time to enjoy the food when it’s time to eat. They value food as more than something to fill them up and appreciate that an ordinary food can be uniquely satisfying.

Some of our favorite healthy snacks to make together are:

  • Green apples & cheese
  • Fruit, pretzels & nutella Spread
  • Fresh smoothies
  • Fresh fruit juice
  • Whole grain/Flax seed pancakes
  • Yogurt parfait
  • Almond butter cookies

Emotional Strength  Positive attachments are the first steps to building emotional well being for life. Nothing beats “ring-a-round the roses” with some tickles & hand movements. It is one of the best ways to be present, really present, with your child and show them that they are a source of joy & delight. It allows young brains to imprint positive perceptions about how to interpret the world.

Bring Out and Honor IndividualityEvery child is different and grows in different ways. As a parent, we need to bring out the child’s hidden unique gift by nurturing their special passions & interests, their emotions and help them create a path that may lead them to realize their full potential.

Lead by Example – Parents are a child’s first and most important role model. “Actions speak louder than words.” Below are some of the self-developmental areas I am working on and hoping to pass on to my kids.

  • Celebrate Life – Remember special life moments and create special family rituals to celebrate together.
  • Positive Lifestyle – Model a positive outlook to situations and life as much as possible.
  • Practice a random act of kindness – Random stop at local food pantry for donations.
  • Nature Walks – Family park trips, hiking, bike trails
  • Storyteller – Tell stories from past experiences that teach some life lessons in a fun way.
  • Laugh out Loud – It’s okay to laugh out loud (or cry) and express your emotions.
  • Respect people of all ages.
  • Believe in Your DREAMS!!

Shiny eyes, generous hearts & lots of love are surely a sign of healthy heart & soul. Keep smiling always!

 

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