Toddlerhood is an exciting phase – it is the age of adventure. But as amazing as it is to watch your little explorer discover new sights and sounds every day, it can also get a little scary when he insists on putting pretty much everything into his mouth. For parents, this can be a stressful period – as your little one embarks on new adventures, and learns to talk, walk and run, he is going to come in contact with all kinds of germs and bacteria.
Toddlers, who are between the ages of 1 to 3 years old, are particularly vulnerable to illnesses as their immune systems are still developing.
The good news is that, by boosting your toddler’s immunity, you can ensure that he stays strong and healthy, and ready to take on the world.
A strong immune system is crucial for a child’s overall health and well-being. It plays a vital role in protecting the body against illnesses, infections, and diseases.
But did you know that a toddler’s immunity is also linked to their ability to learn?
The Surprising Link Between Toddler Immunity and Brain Power
Early childhood is an absolutely critical time of brain development. By the time your child is three, his brain will be 80% of its adult size.
A child’s immune system plays a significant role in their brain development, learning and memory. Interestingly, studies1 have shown that young children who have a strong immune system performed better on developmental tests than those who were frequently ill.
When a child falls sick too often, their body spends more energy fighting off infections, leaving less energy for the brain to function properly. This can result in poor concentration, memory problems, and difficulty learning new information.
If your little one has already started childcare, building his immunity would be one of your top priorities. A strong immune system can help your toddler attend childcare regularly, and ensure that he is healthy, active and alert.
At this age, your child’s brain is like a sponge, soaking up huge amounts of information from her environment. Your little one is also learning to socialise with other kids and picking up skills like sharing and turn-taking.
When a child is healthy, they are more likely to engage in physical activities and interact with their peers. Regular physical activity and social interactions are crucial for your tot’s social and emotional well-being. They can help children develop self-confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills, which are important for their academic success.
Tips to Boost your Toddler’s Immunity
So, how can parents strengthen their toddler’s immune system and promote their ability to learn? Here are some tips:
- Encourage healthy eating habits. Proper nutrition during early childhood is crucial in regulating brain growth and development, long-term cognitive performance and immunity. Make sure your toddler is getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
You might also want to supplement your little one’s diet with a formula specifically designed for toddlers. Aptamil Gold+ Growing Up Milk Stage 3 for children aged 1-3 years old has Immuno-Nutrients⁺ (Iron, Folic Acid, Vitamin C & D), Prebiotics^ & 1 Billion Probiotics~ to support your toddler’s immunity and digestive health. It also has the highest DHA◊ among other growing up milk for brain development.
If you would like to try a FREE* 900g Aptamil sample, do click here.
- Get enough sleep. A lack of sleep can weaken the immune system and make your child more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Make sure your toddler is getting enough sleep every night, and establish a consistent bedtime routine.
- Practice good hygiene. Teach your toddler good hygiene habits, such as washing their hands regularly, and covering their mouth when they cough or sneeze.
- Keep up with vaccinations. Vaccinations are an important way to protect your child from serious illnesses and infections. Make sure your toddler is up-to-date on all recommended vaccinations.
In conclusion, a strong immune system is essential for a child’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Toddlers with a strong immune system are more likely to attend school regularly, perform well academically, and engage in physical activities and social interactions. By ensuring optimal nutrition, a healthy lifestyle, and good hygiene habits, you can help your child develop a strong immune system that will set them up for success in life.
◊ Applies to Aptamil Stage 3 (128mg/100g) & Aptamil HA Stage 3 (87.3mg/100g) Growing Up Milk vs other Growing Up Milk (Stage 3) sold in Singapore as checked on 23 Sep 2022.
+ Immuno-nutrients referring to Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin C & D contribute to the normal functioning of the immune system.
* T&Cs apply. Only applicable for new users. Redemption is strictly limited to one sample per entity. Impersonation of another entity for sample redemption is not allowed (e.g. using another entity’s username, password, or other account information). Multiple accounts created for the purpose of sample redemption by the same entity will be deemed as fraud and may be reported to the relevant authorities. Excludes infant and follow-on formula (0-12 months).
~ 1 billion Probiotics BBM-16V (1X 109 cfu/100g) to fight against harmful bacteria in the digestive system, thereby helping to maintain a healthy digestive system
^ Contains unique prebiotic blend, scGOS:lcFOS (9:1) to support child’s natural defences. Arslanoglu et al. 2008. Journal of Nutrition, 138:1091-1095
