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
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer provided insight on updated PLC rate estimates, the role of base acres, and the upcoming enrollment window for ARC and PLC programs.
Farm Bureau economist Danny Munch explains the importance of timely enrollment, and how the program helps dairy producers safeguard their operations against volatile milk markets.
National FFA Annual Fund Manager Kimberly Coveney encouraged everyone watching to join the effort today and help celebrate Give FFA Day while investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Tennessee FFA officers join us in the RFD-TV Studios to showcase student leadership and inspire support for agricultural education on Give FFA Day 2026.
National FFA President Trey Myers shares the significance of Give FFA Day, its role in supporting student growth, and how communities can join the celebration to make a difference for future agricultural leaders.
National FFA Organization CEO Scott Stump shares the importance of Give FFA Day, how contributions support students, and why today is an opportunity for everyone to help invest in the future of agriculture.

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:

Falling commodity prices and rising costs continue to squeeze farm margins. Kip Jacobs with The Mosaic Company addresses fertilizer market pressures, nutrient use efficiency, and strategies growers can consider to protect their fertilizer investment this season.
The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo concluded last night, marking the end of another successful year showcasing youth exhibitors, livestock producers, and the spirit of agriculture.
Kurt Kovarik of Clean Fuels Alliance America joined us to break down the latest developments in the Renewable Fuel Standard rulemaking process and what it could mean for agriculture, energy markets, and rural economies.
Jennifer Tirey of the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us to discuss efforts to bring pork back into Chicago Public Schools, the nutritional benefits for students, and what the decision could mean for pork producers across the state.
Farmer and retired colonial Joe Ricker joined us to highlight Ag Safety Awareness Program Week, share his work supporting veterans and farmers, and offer guidance on making safety a year-round priority on the farm.
Dry conditions may tighten hay supplies before summer growth. John Mays of Central Life Sciences joined us to discuss the risks of extended grain storage, how quality can be affected over time, and what growers can do to protect their grain while waiting for market opportunities.
More Shows
RFD-TV News is proud to provide viewers with gave-to-gavel coverage of the 95th National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis, Indiana (2022).
Looking for a quick rundown of the top agriculture, news & rural lifestyle stories on RFD-TV last week? Check out our weekly Rural Wrap-Up!
Dive into the key international agribusiness headlines shaping agriculture, the markets, and global trade with RFD-TV’s World News coverage.
Love a program on RFD-TV? Here are some other great shows that we hope you’ll watch next when they air or stream anytime on RFD-TV Now!
“Gentle Giants” explores the world of draft horses on the farm, in the field, and in the arena. Hosted by champion equestrians Pam Minick and Kadee Coffman, “Gentle Giants” travels across America to see draft horses--from the Legendary Budweiser Clydesdales to hearty Belgian draft horses plowing the fields--at work and at play.
Explore the latest cutting-edge equipment in agricultural machinery with RFD NEWS and uncover the insights and innovations shaping modern farming.
Grow your knowledge of crops with RFD NEWS! Discover expert tips on cultivation, innovation, and the latest trends and analysis on crop production and demand that are shaping the markets.
Glean cattle, pork, and poultry-industry insights and discover stories celebrating the vital role of livestock in rural communities with RFD NEWS.
Since some of the world’s most wondrous places lie just outside the back door, Exmark created its Backyard Life website, developed to inspire homeowners to realize the full potential of their own backyards.