5 Habits to Set Your Child Up for an Active Life

A diagnosis of congenital heart disease can feel overwhelming for any parent. But today, many children with congenital heart conditions go on to live full, active lives with the right support and care — and you can get started now.

At Cardiology Care for Children, Devyani Chowdhury, MD, MHA, and our team specialize in helping families navigate congenital heart disease, so they can overcome challenges and empower their children to thrive.

Here are five habits that you as a parent can start developing early to help your child build a strong, healthy, and active future.

1. Prioritize regular cardiology checkups

When your child has a congenital heart disease, routine visits with their cardiology care team are essential. We monitor heart health at these regular checkups and make sure that any new symptoms, concerns, or risks are identified and managed as early as possible.

These visits also help guide safe activity levels as your child grows, making it easier for you to encourage physical activity with confidence. Open communication with your medical team creates a safety net for your child's active lifestyle.

2. Foster a positive attitude about exercise

Children often mirror their parents' attitudes toward fitness and health. Talk about exercise in a positive, empowering way rather than focusing on limitations or any fears you might have about your child’s heart condition.

Encourage activities that your child enjoys and can safely participate in, whether that's swimming, dance, hiking, or even a casual game of soccer. Focusing on fun — rather than competition — helps all children view physical activity as a natural and enjoyable part of life.

3. Teach them to listen to their bodies

One of the most valuable skills you can teach your child is body awareness. Help them learn to recognize signs that they need a break, like shortness of breath, dizziness, chest pain, or extreme fatigue.

Teach them that it’s OK to take breaks and to speak up when something feels off. Modeling these habits early on helps build confidence and keep your child safer as they become more independent.

4. Promote heart-healthy habits early

Beyond exercise, heart-healthy living includes good nutrition, adequate sleep, and emotional well-being. Create a home environment that prioritizes balanced meals that contain fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Practice healthy stress management techniques yourself, like deep breathing or mindfulness, so your child has the opportunity to learn through example. These habits can not only support their heart health now but also set the foundation for lifelong wellness.

5. Build a supportive community

Children with congenital heart disease benefit greatly from having a community that understands their needs. Communicate with teachers, coaches, and caregivers about your child's condition and any activity guidelines provided by their cardiology team.

Encourage friendships and activities that emphasize participation and fun rather than intense competition. And remember that feeling supported and included can make all the difference in keeping your child motivated to stay active as they grow up.

Every child’s health needs are unique, and our team is here to answer your questions. We’re dedicated to helping children with congenital heart disease live vibrant, active lives through expert, compassionate care. Contact us today to book an appointment at one of our clinics in Lancaster, Mifflinburg, and Strasburg, Pennsylvania, and Topeka, Indiana.