Ten Ways Fathers Can Contribute to their Children's Health

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HOUSTON, June 12, 1997-- Cough-syrup commercials featuring "Dr. Mom," tout the healing properties of the maternal bond, so how can a busy father play a role in keeping his children healthy?

Dr. Joseph Garcia-Prats, neonatologist at Texas Children's Hospital and himself a father of ten sons, stresses that fathers need to realize there are more aspects to their children's well-being than medical health.

"Emotional well-being, mental and social vitality, along with physical fitness are all equally important as the medical aspect of health," said Dr. Garcia-Prats.

Dr. Garcia-Prats makes the following recommendations for fathers and male caregivers to ensure the health of their little ones.

1. Make your children a priority in life. When children feel they are important, their self-esteem blooms.

2. Teach by example. If you want your children to be courteous and respectful of others, then you should act that way.

3. Take a good look at your child. At the dinner table, notice their demeanor, look for dark circles under the eyes. Sometimes a sudden change in behavior can indicate a potential health problem.

4. Read over immunization requirements. Although your children may not want to get a shot, that injection can prevent them from getting a serious, life-threatening, preventable illness.

5. Nurture your child's spiritual life whatever your spiritual beliefs. Let children know there is more to life than material gain. Teach them a sense of right and wrong and encourage them to use their talents to help others.

6. Accept each child as an individual. Each child has different talents that can be nurtured.

7. Watch the evening news. Has anyone reported an outbreak of a certain virus or a recall of a popular toy? By keeping an eye out for potential hazards, you can prevent your child from getting sick or hurt in the first place.

8. Get involved in your child's activities. Ballet. Soccer. Ask your children to teach you something about their chosen activities.

9. Take your children outside. Although allergies and heat are as much a part of Houston as the Rockets, throwing a ball or going to the park early on a Saturday morning before the temperature hits 90 degrees gets them moving and can be more meaningful than watching cartoons. Even a picnic or tent in the backyard where father and children can play a game is a worthwhile activity.

10. Hug them. A daily dose of Vitamin "T" (for touch) and a simple "I love you" can go a long way in keeping children healthy.

"Simple, but meaningful, moments with your children will increase their happiness and, consequently, their healthiness," adds Dr. Garcia-Prats.

A 456-licensed bed non-profit hospital, Texas Children's Hospital is the nation's largest pediatric health care institution with more than 50 pediatric specialties and subspecialties. Texas Children's Hospital is dedicated to providing the finest possible pediatric patient care, research and education.

CONTACT: Heather Robertson of Texas Children's Hospital,713-770-2180