Like most parenting, when it comes to your children's health a lot of common sense applies.
But here are our top five tips to make sure you keep them happy and healthy...
Mum, I feel poorly
Okay, they might say they’re unwell, but do they really need to be kept off school? It's usually best to go with your gut reaction, but it's always wise to keep your child off school if they have a fever or if they've been unwell during the night.
Yuck!
Struggling to get them to eat five a day? Make fruit and veg more fun for fussy kids by making them into shapes, smoothies or even eating them with fingers. Or why not mix pureed vegetables in with a tomato pasta sauce – they’ll never know!
Sweets aren't treats
Use other foods like grapes, berries or cherry tomatoes to reward your child’s good behaviour and give them an appetite for healthy foods.
Don't be couch potatoes
Switch off the TV and encourage the whole family to get plenty of exercise. You could go for walks, swim or play ball games in the park. It will give your kids the opportunity for safe play at home, after school and at weekends. And you’ll feel better for it too.
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And finally, make sure your child feels able to talk about what's happening in their life. Bullying or any other anxieties about weight or schoolwork worries can all be picked up early if you keep talking. Family meals are a great time for everyone to share what they’ve been getting up to during the day, so set the table and get talking.
For more tips on keeping your family healthy, visit The Co-operative Pharmacy's health advice directory.