As summer vacation winds down, children’s physical activity often does the same. With sports ending in mid-summer and family vacations out of the way, getting kids to stay active into the school year isn’t always easy. Here are some tips to help kids get the exercise they need without making it seem like extra homework.
- Keep an activity-filled schedule. While kids might think of the back-to-school season as the end of summer, help them take advantage of September’s great weather by encouraging outdoor, after-school activities, even if they’re as simple as walking the dog or going for a bike ride. If you live close to your children’s school, let them walk (or walk with them) to school instead of taking the bus or getting a ride.
- Keep computer time to a minimum. More kids are spending their free time on the computer, which can cause neck, back, and eye strain. Try and keep the time they spend on the computer to a minimum, and make sure they take frequent breaks.
- Establish a sleep schedule. Waking up early for the first few days of school can disrupt sleep cycles, so gradually ease them back into the school year sleep cycle by having them go to bed and wake up earlier for the few days before school starts. Although it might not be the most fun way to spend the last few summer nights, they’ll appreciate not feeling so groggy on their first day back.
- Pack a health-conscious lunch. Packing a lunch is a great way to ensure that your child is eating right, even when they aren’t in your kitchen. Make sure to include enough fruits, vegetables, dairy and whole grains; for some healthy lunch solutions, check out this article.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to make sure that your child stays healthy and active, especially once school starts. For more information on how to prepare your child, physically and mentally, for the upcoming school year, check out this link.
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