Healthy habits for life
Early Childhood (0–5)
Young children are learning basic habits like eating, moving, sleeping, and managing big feelings. Parents often face picky eating, bedtime challenges, lots of energy, and early health concerns.
What parents can do:
Offer healthy foods, encourage active play, keep a calm bedtime routine, support emotions, and follow care plans.
School-Age (6–12)
School-age children are more independent but still need guidance. Families may struggle with busy schedules, screen time, sleep changes, stress, and managing health conditions.
What parents can do:
Plan balanced meals, limit screen time, encourage daily activity, support sleep, and talk about stress and health needs.
Teens (13–18)
Teens make more of their own health choices and may face stress, sleep issues, mood changes, and challenges managing health conditions.
What parents can do:
Encourage healthy habits, support mental health, help manage care, and keep communication open.
Resources
Nutrition information
Support healthy growth with practical, affordable, and kid-friendly nutrition resources.
- Early Childhood (0–5): infant & toddler feeding, picky eating, family meals
- School-Age (6–12): balanced meals, snacks, sugar reduction
- Teens (13–18): independence, fueling activity, body image–supportive guidance
Team Nutrition
Nutrition education for schools
American Dietetic Association
American Heart Association
American Academy of Pediatrics
Physical activity and active play
Encourage daily movement that fits your child's age, interests, and abilities.
- Early Childhood (0–5): play-based movement, motor skill development
- School-Age (6–12): sports, active play, screen-time balance
- Teens (13–18): fitness, confidence, lifelong activity habits
Move More Macomb
Move More Macomb | Macomb County
CDC Physical activity basics
Mental & emotional wellness
Help kids build coping skills, resilience, and emotional awareness. Build routines that support energy, mood, and learning.
- Early Childhood (0–5): emotional expression, calming strategies, bedtime routines
- School-Age (6–12): stress, friendships, confidence, consistent schedules, screen limits.
- Teens (13–18): mental health support, mindfulness, when to seek help, sleep needs, stress, and time management.
Student & Youth - CARE of Southeastern Michigan
Macomb County Community Mental Health for children
Preventative health and chronic conditions
Protect health through prevention, check-ups, and safe environments.
- Early Childhood (0–5): well-child visits, injury prevention
- School-Age (6–12): immunizations, safety skills
- Teens (13–18): preventive care, healthy decision-making
Prevention Services - CARE of Southeastern Michigan
Children's Special Health Cares Services
Community resources and support CSHCS
Prevent and reduce injuries
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