Kaitlyn Fusco
Florida might be America’s Sunshine State, but it is only the 33rd healthiest state in the country. Florida has dropped four places from its previous position in the United Health Foundation’s annual health rankings, which ranks each state. But while Florida has a low prevalence of smoking and a high immunization rate for children, it also has one of the highest rates of uninsured children, obesity and diabetes. The report highlights the need for each low ranking state to overhaul their approach to child and adolescent health. However, parents and caregivers have the primary responsibility in maintaining their children’s health and well-being. Parents choose the food their children eat, the health care they receive, and the amount of physical activity they do to ensure they are safe, healthy, and equipped with the resources and skills to succeed as adults.
The Role Of Parents In Child Health
All countries are failing to do enough to protect children’s health and well-being, according to a report on global child health. The study found that children’s health is under threat because of climate change and exploitative advertising that pushes sugary drinks, fast food, nicotine and alcohol to children. However, by providing healthy food and beverages at home and encouraging opportunities for exercise, parents can positively influence their children’s choices that will set them up for adulthood. But parents and caregivers must also be seen to practice what they preach and live a healthy lifestyle too, as children’s behavior often comes from observing and copying those around them.
Life Insurance For Children
Around 60% of American adults have life insurance, but life insurance for children is not something every parent considers. However, if your child has a severe medical condition or becomes ill, you might not be able to work while you care for them. It can also help to cover funeral costs should the unthinkable happen. But purchasing life insurance coverage now can also protect your child’s insurability when they become adults. The best life insurance for children is generally a whole life policy that offers between $10,000 and $50,000 in coverage and doesn’t require an exam. It also guarantees that when they are an adult, they will be able to buy life insurance, regardless of their health. It can even serve as a savings vehicle for your child’s future expenses like college.
Life insurance for children with diabetes can even be obtained. Melissa Thompson of Diabetes 365 says, “Many consumers are unaware that your child who has diabetes can still qualify for life insurance. It’s important to work with an independent agent who can properly ‘shop’ your child’s health profile out to several insurance providers.”
Access To Healthcare
Access to healthcare is fundamental to a child’s health. But the number of children in the U.S. without health insurance reached 3.9 million in 2017. A lack of insurance means that children don’t have access to the healthcare they need, which can affect their physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioral development. For eligible children in Florida, there is Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), which provides either low cost or no-cost health coverage. These programs offer children coverage that enables them to get routine check-ups, dental care and immunizations to keep them healthy.
As a parent, you have a crucial role in not just your child’s health, but also in ensuring that they have the knowledge they need to make healthy choices for themselves in the future. It is through educating parents on the options available to them that we will be able to protect the health of the next generation.
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