http://teag.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/back-to-school1.jpg Well school is just around the corner and we can’t stop eating healthy. All that hard work over the summer shouldn’t go to the way-side. Getting kids to eat right and make good decisions isn’t something that stops when the school bell rings.
Here are some things parents can do to stay in the groove and continue on that healthy path…
Pack Healthy Lunches!
Lunch is important because half way through the day energy levels start to slow down which can alter a child’s attention span and concentration.
A signature lunch we created is the “BCG Burrito”. Kids love making their own foods, so a burrito that they can make themselves at schools is fun and healthy. Simply pack a whole wheat tortilla, some low-fat shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded lettuce, 1/2 cup low-fat ground meat with Taco seasoning, 1 tbs. of sour cream and 2 tbs. of salsa. Pair this with an apple and low-fat milk an you’ve got a complete meal that is healthy and yummie to boot. Your kids will gobble this right up!
Change NO to YES!
One of the biggest challenge’s parents face is getting their child to yes. Once children begin to talk they have the power to say “NO” - and really loud! Parents should use this to their advantage.
Create a snack box with your kids. Kids are hungry when they get out of school. Instead of getting home and eating anything in sight create a snack box with your child. Make it fun for them - break out the glitter, stickers, ribbons and more. Once the box is completed fill it with healthy snack options. You can even go to the grocery store together to pick some food out. They key here is that the child has the power to choose. They will automatically say “YES” when they feel they are making the decision.
Mooove!
Yup, that’s right… move and groove. After dinner instead of turning the TV on, put your sneakers on and go outside. Get outside and walk or run or play a game of touch football with the whole family. If your children are too young bring out the jump ropes, balls or other kinds of sports equipment you have and play together. Lead by example and your children will follow. You are your child’s first hero.
The school year is a great time to get your kids involved in a school organized sport. This will not only get them physically active, but socially as well.The benefits and rewards associated with setting goals and following through on a sports team are innumerable for a child. Plus, exercise is known to aid insomnia, depression, and low self-esteem issues. Regular physical activity helps the body manage stress.
The younger children become active the more likely they are to carry that passion into the adult years.
The family is the primary unit that ensures the health and well being of a child. By being a postive role model through what you eat and do physically, providing a variety of fruits and veggies for your kids to munch on, choosing “whole grain” pastas, bread and cereal, offering smaller portion sizes and teaching your child to listen to their inner hunger ques will get your entire family off to a great start this school year.
