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10 Ways You Can Be a Healthier Parent This Year

role of parents in a child’s life family of 4 walking on a beach towards the ocean at sundown with their backs to the camera Middle Class Dad

Kids can take a lot out of you. Often your children need constant attention, which leads to your health becoming a second priority. Here are some tips for becoming a healthier parent this year.

1. Plan Things

You often have a busy schedule taking care of kids, which means proper eating and sleeping habits may fall by the wayside. To keep yourself on track, consider creating actionable goals by planning healthy meals and exercise activities for the week.

Here are some delicious dinners the whole family will love:

  • Chicken in red pepper sauce
  • Chicken tortilla soup
  • Spaghetti squash
  • Sausage and broccoli pizza
  • Oven-fried chicken

Make sure to write down your goals. Using a monthly planner can help you stay organized and hold yourself accountable.

2.  Be Your Motivation

It may seem like your health goals are not everyone’s top priority. Focus on encouraging yourself. Place your goals list on your refrigerator so you can look at it each morning, and let your family and close friends know about your objectives. This way, they can provide you with extra support.

Here are tips to help motivate yourself when you need that added push:

  • Remind yourself why you are doing the task
  • Start working on it for five minutes
  • Move around
  • Skip to the next step
  • Figure out what is preventing you from moving forward

3.  Build in Time for Yourself Throughout the Day

Your day can get busy with taking kids to school and soccer practice. However, don’t forget to carve out some time for yourself on a consistent schedule. This way, other family members are aware of when your me-time is and will make it easier for them to respect your space.

Consider going for a walk with a friend or indulging in some self-care. Whatever you do during this time is valuable in helping you recharge.

4.  Cut Yourself Some Slack

You have a lot on your plate as a parent. If you don’t make your health goals during a certain week, it’s OK. Instead, focus on the achievements you have made so far. For example, did you cook a healthy meal at least once during the week? Any type of progress is still beneficial.

Here are some tips to help prevent you from being too hard on yourself:

  • Remember your mistakes are part of learning
  • Don’t compare yourself to others
  • There is no right way to do things
  • Stand up for what you believe in
  • Accept your weaknesses and focus on strengths

5. Make Healthy Living a Part of Your Lifestyle

Continue to work on your health goals. Try to eat healthier, get more exercise and take care of yourself daily. If you stick to a routine, you can turn it into a habit.

Here are tips for building up healthy habits you should consider:

  • Tie them to existing habits
  • Start small
  • Do them every day
  • Clear away any obstacles
  • Reward yourself

Also, by being healthier, you are setting an excellent example for your kids to follow.

6.  Incorporate Superfoods Into Your Diet

They say you are what you eat, so make the most of mealtime. These foods are rich in nutrients, and they can help prevent diseases and reduce inflammation.

Here are some superfoods to consider adding to your diet:

  • Leafy greens
  • Blueberries
  • Green tea
  • Eggs
  • Nuts and seeds

7.  Take Part in Preventive Health Measures

About seven out of 10 deaths are caused by preventable chronic diseases. Make sure you are fully insured and do what you can to prevent illnesses before they turn into major health issues.

Improve your health by engaging in the following::

  • Health screenings
  • Counseling
  • Immunizations
  • Lab tests
  • Annual checkups

Taking care of your health allows you to be there for your kids.

8.  Exercise With Your Kids

It can be hard to find time in the day to exercise, so consider working out with your kids. Go for a walk at your local park or have a dance party at home. Being active with your children will help both you and them stay healthy. You want to aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day.

9. Prioritize Sleep

Even with kids keeping you up at night, you want to ensure you’re getting enough rest. Adults need at least seven or more hours of rest a night.

Sleep helps you wake up in a better mood and feel recharged. Having energy and a positive attitude enables you to take better care of your children.

Here are some other benefits of getting a good night rest:

  • Reduces your chances of getting sick
  • Helps to keep you at a healthy weight
  • Lowers your risk of health issues, such as heart disease
  • Lessens stress
  • Lets you think more clearly

10. Create a Morning or Night Routine

If you can wake up before your kids, use this time to create a routine for yourself. Do whatever makes you happy. Consider grabbing a cup of coffee, taking a shower or catching up on the news.

Another option is the evening after your kids go to bed. You could drink some tea, get into a good book or indulge in self-care.

The goal of these routines is to give yourself some time to unwind and recharge. This way, you can face the challenges of the day with a positive attitude.

How to Be a Healthier Parent

Your children’s health is often your top priority, but yours is important, too. You need to feel your best to be there for your kids. Follow these tips to prioritize your well-being so you feel your best every day.

Jeff Campbell