School is a place where your children learn and grow cognitively, become more independent and develop a range of social skills that will benefit them in their personal and professional endeavors. School is also a place that encourages physical activity and exercise, so if you have any concerns about your child’s weight, it may be time to take action.
There are many children who are overweight or obese which can cause serious health conditions, so here are 5 tips to keep your kids healthy and active during the school year.
Teach the Importance of Healthy Eating
The foods and beverages that you give your children will have a major influence on their health and wellbeing. With many parents leading busy lives, it’s all too easy to reach for junk food to keep the kids happy. However, foods full of salt and fat can be highly damaging to their bodies.
It’s important that your children eat plenty of fruits and vegetables from a young age, so teaching them the importance of healthy eating can help them make wiser choices in the future.
Establish Good Sleep Hygiene
Good quality sleep is critical for your child’s health, wellbeing and development.
If your child struggles to get enough sleep, their energy levels and concentration can dwindle, making it hard for them to focus at school. To ensure they are fully focused on their studies, you need to develop good sleep hygiene habits that your kids can follow.
Sticking to a regular routine, eliminating distractions, and getting rid of clutter in their bedroom are all good ways of promoting sleep.
Lead by Example
If you are concerned about your child’s weight and want them to be more physically active, it’s important that you set a good example.
Factoring regular exercise into your own routine and showing your kids the health benefits they can receive will make them take more notice and encourage them to be more physically active. There are lots of ways your kids can be more active, such as incorporating exercise into after school programs.
Provide a Brain-Boosting Breakfast
Your children need to be fueled and ready for a day of learning, so providing a brain boosting breakfast should be your first step. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so make sure that it’s packed with plenty of complex carbohydrates and proteins that are crucial for brain function.
There are lots of healthy breakfast ideas that you can try out for your kids, such as eggs, hot cereal, and whole-grain toast.
Be There for Support
Your child’s mental health is just as important as what’s on the outside, so if you have noticed any changes in their behavior, it’s your responsibility to be there to provide love, support, and guidance.
Many children are afraid to open up and tend to bottle their thoughts and feelings, so you need to show that you’re there for them whenever they need you.
As a parent, your child’s health and safety will naturally be your top priority.
To ensure your kids lead a happy and fulfilled childhood, it’s vital that you keep a close eye on their weight, so following the guidance above can help boost your child’s immune system, concentration levels and keep them positive and upbeat.
