Rural Health Matters: Keeping Kids Healthy for Christmas Break

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined Rural Health Matters to outline a few key reminders for parents about keeping kids healthy during the holiday season.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD-TV) — As families gear up for the excitement of the holiday season, health experts say it is also a good time to think about how to keep kids healthy while they are out of school. With routines shifting for a week or two, children may be more vulnerable to stress, disrupted sleep, and overindulgence.

Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined Rural Health Matters to outline a few key reminders for parents. He says the break from school — along with travel, late nights, and packed schedules — can throw off the structure kids rely on. Maintaining consistency in meals, sleep, and downtime can help them stay energized and avoid becoming run-down.

While holiday treats are part of the fun, Dr. Gold notes that moderation still matters. A few sweets are fine, but parents should be mindful to balance snacks with healthier choices to help kids feel their best.

As families prepare for the last school bell of the year, Dr. Gold encourages parents to enjoy the season while keeping simple health habits in mind.

Viewers with rural health questions can email them to Dr. Gold at [email protected] .

Related Stories
Duvall’s connection to cowboy culture extended beyond the screen.
The USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has issued final Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) payments totaling more than $1.89 billion.
Formally dubbed “Farm Bill 2.0” by committee leadership, the draft surfaces after a high-stakes legislative dance that saw much of the traditional farm bill’s funding, specifically for crop insurance and safety net programs, carved out and passed in last year’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).
The National Farm Machinery Show is underway in Louisville, Kentucky, bringing together the latest in agricultural equipment, technology, and innovation. Here are some highlights from the trade show floor so far!
Specialty Crops Acreage Reporting Deadline for 2025 is March 13
RealAg Radio host Shaun Haney discusses how AI integration in grocery retail could impact farmers and the broader food supply chain.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Cotton jassid, a invasive pest, is raising concerns for Southeast cotton growers as experts work to understand its impact this season.
RFD Farm Legal & Tax expert Roger McEowen shares guidance on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit, its impact on renewable energy and agriculture, and what producers should know moving forward.
Singer-songwriter and RanchHER Clare Dunn reflects on the importance of National FFA Week, her time in FFA, and her commitment to advocating for agriculture and rural issues.
Border closures tied to the threat of New World Screwworm continue to stall Mexican fed cattle imports, tightening U.S. feeder cattle supplies over time — triggering feedlot closures that hinder herd rebuilding efforts, threaten the beef supply chain, and shrink production while consumer prices stay elevated.
Brooks York of AgriSompo discusses projected prices and how farmers are adapting their crop insurance strategies as the price discovery period comes to a close.
FFA Western Region Vice President Jael Cruikshank talks about the importance of community service and how National FFA Organization members are making a difference in their communities during National FFA Week.
More Shows
To a Channel Seedsmen, it’s about being you on your farm, helping you assess your conditions, diagnosing your challenges, and then recommending the best solutions to meet your specific needs.
From the company’s beginnings, standards have always been high at Wyffels Hybrids, who partner with RFD-TV to relentlessly serve corn growers pursuing a more productive and profitable crop.
Rural Lifestyle Shows
“Positively Paula,” is a nationally-syndicated lifestyle/food show that invites viewers to share a moment with their friend: Paula Deen, who we know and love.
Discover financial insights for rural living with RFD-TV’s Rural Money where you can access tips, strategies, and stories to help you financially thrive in the countryside.
The Commodity Classic is America’s largest farmer-led, farmer-focused agricultural and educational event, showcasing the latest in ag tech.
AARP works to connect Americans from the big city to Rural America. The organization partners with RFD Network to present AARP Live Minutes each Thursday on the Market Day Report.
Stay prepared with RFD-TV Weather’s array of Weather Resources created to help you navigate and understand weather conditions across rural America.
Explore uplifting tales, positive vibes, and celebrate the brighter side of life with this heartwarming selection of RFD-TV Lifestyle’s Feel-Good Stories.
RFD-TV Business keeps you informed with the latest agricultural market trends, insights, and analysis to navigate the agribusiness world with precision.