As winter approaches, so does the risk of seasonal illnesses like the flu, colds, and other infections that can disrupt daily life—especially for families with young children. Maryvale, Los Angeles’ oldest children’s charity, has provided trusted support for families since 1856. Our programs help children and families thrive in every season.
Here, we’re sharing practical tips to keep your family healthy this winter, with insights into how wellness impacts child development, learning, and overall well-being.
Build Strong Immunity Through Nutrition and Hydration
Good nutrition is one of the simplest and most effective ways to strengthen your family’s immune system. Foods rich in vitamins C and D, as well as essential nutrients like zinc, can help fend off seasonal illnesses like the flu and colds. Hydration is equally important for maintaining energy and overall health.
At Maryvale, our Early Education Centers incorporate healthy eating practices into the curriculum, helping children build lifelong habits from a young age. Providing your family with nourishing meals is a great way to set the foundation for a healthy winter season.
Prioritize Quality Sleep and Daily Routine
Sleep is critical for both physical and mental health. Studies show that getting at least seven hours of sleep per night can significantly reduce the risk of catching colds and other illnesses. High-quality sleep also improves concentration and learning, which are essential for children’s growth and development.
Promote Good Hand Hygiene
Teaching children proper handwashing techniques is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Encourage frequent handwashing, especially before meals, after playing outside, and after sneezing or coughing.
Maryvale’s programs, including Connections by Maryvale, emphasize holistic health practices, empowering families with the tools to maintain their physical well-being while also addressing emotional and mental health.
Limit Exposure to Illness When Possible
Limiting exposure to illness doesn’t mean staying indoors all winter, but it can involve avoiding high-risk settings during peak flu activity and encouraging safer, indoor activities for children. Maryvale’s wrap-around services help families navigate these challenges with resources that keep children engaged and healthy during the colder months.
Keep Up with Flu Shots and Seasonal Vaccines
Vaccines play a vital role in protecting families from seasonal illnesses like the flu. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu vaccinations can reduce the risk of flu-related illness by 40-60% annually.
Tip: Maryvale recommends consulting your pediatrician about age-appropriate vaccines and checking with local health departments for additional vaccine resources. Staying up to date on vaccinations helps protect your family and your community
Focus on Mental Health for Overall Wellness
Winter months can impact mental health, and families may find it challenging to manage seasonal stress. Children, in particular, are sensitive to changes in routine and environment, which can affect their development and learning.
Maryvale’s Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) programs focus on building mental and emotional resilience for families. Our services provide tools to manage stress, improve family bonding, and promote activities like outdoor exercise that reduce anxiety and strengthen immune health.
Stay Connected and Seek Community Support When Needed
Feeling connected and supported can help reduce stress and isolation, especially during the winter. Maryvale’s community programs, including temporary housing and mental health services, foster stability and peace for families in need. By accessing local resources or joining support groups, families can gain the tools needed to maintain wellness and resilience throughout the season.
Support Maryvale’s Mission This Winter
Maryvale is proud to serve families with essential well-being, development, and health services. Your support allows us to expand these programs and reach even more families in need. Consider donating or volunteering to help us continue our mission of empowering families this winter and beyond.
Together, we can build a healthier, happier community—one individual, one family, one community at a time.
