As the summer draws to a close, most of us prepare for the new school year, and it’s crucial to get back into healthy routines as the season changes. But, with kids back in school, early mornings, and busier schedules, sticking to a healthy lifestyle can be a challenge. However, there are some simple tips that can help you and your whole family stay healthy, active, and energized throughout the school year.
1. Make Breakfast a Priority
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially for kids during the school year. Providing a balanced breakfast helps kick-start the metabolism and keep you feeling fuller for longer. Choose complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied till your next meal. Encourage your children to start their day with a bowl of oatmeal, smoothies, yogurt, or egg whites to keep them alert and energized.
2. Meal Planning and Prepping
Preparing and planning meals ahead of time can help save time, money, and ensures you eat healthily. Dedicate a day in the week to plan your weekly meals, grocery shop, and cook in bulk, ensuring you’ve got plenty of healthy options. With a busy schedule, meal prepping helps avoid making unhealthy food choices when hungry and pressured for time. Moreover, packing your lunch and snacks, whether it’s for work or school, is a great way to steer away from junk food. Need some ideas? Try these 4 healthy meals to make in under 10 minutes.
3. Prioritize Hydration
Keeping yourself hydrated is crucial for overall health and is equally important during the school year. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and lack of concentration. Encourage children to carry a water bottle with them and ensure they drink water or a hydrating beverage throughout the day. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which may disrupt sleep and hinder concentration.
4. Incorporate Physical Activity
Physical activity is essential for overall wellbeing and should be incorporated into daily routines, especially during the school year. Encourage your kids to engage in a sport, walk to school, participate in outdoor activities and play. Making it a habit to walk rather than take the car helps increase physical activity while reducing the carbon footprint.
5. Prioritize Sleep
Inadequate sleep can negatively impact concentration, energy levels, and the immune system. It’s crucial for children to get enough sleep to perform well at school. Encourage consistency in sleep routine: an established bedtime and wake-up time routine can help set the body clock. Moreover, make sure the bedroom environment is conducive to sleep: dark, cool, and quiet.
Making little adjustments to your daily routine can make a significant difference in maintaining healthy routines. Encourage your family to make healthy choices and prioritize a healthy lifestyle. Remember, getting back to school and back to healthy routines is a process; start slowly, incorporate positive habits, and soon a healthy lifestyle will be second nature. Here’s to an energizing, productive, and a healthy school year ahead!