TIME SAVING BACK TO SCHOOL HEALTH AND WELLNESS HACKS

The start of the school year can be incredibly stressful. You’re saying goodbye to summer’s carefree days and hello to packed schedules and never-ending to-do lists. It’s no surprise that you might be putting your wellness habits to the side during this hectic time.

Thankfully, you don’t have to enter this school year empty-handed. These health and wellness hacks can be great time savers so that you can make you and your child’s health a priority with ease.

MAKING TIME FOR EXERCISE

Did you know that being physically active can improve a child’s attention in school and lessen anxiety? Kids could be physically active during the time they spend watching TV, playing video games, and surfing the web. Experts recommend that kids engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day—before, during, and after school; jogging, walking, and sports all count! Maybe you could implement a daily after dinner family walk or bike ride and make it a routine!

MEAL PREP HACKS

One of the best time saving hacks is to plan your family’s meals ahead of time, by packing healthy lunches for the next day the night before. You also could prepare nutritious meals in bulk on Sunday night and freeze them to use during the week. Easy meal prep ideas include overnight oats, crockpot meals, frozen egg muffins, sandwiches/wraps, chicken/tuna salad, etc. Some great grab and go breakfast items include protein bars, nuts and fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, protein shakes, hard-boiled eggs, etc. It’s also a good idea to have water bottles ready to go in the refrigerator the night before for the next morning so you can easily grab and go!

CREATE A SLEEP SCHEDULE?

It’s important to establish a bedtime routine with set bedtimes before returning to school, especially if you have restless children. This habit will help your child unwind, relax, and wake up rested the next morning. Furthermore, your child will be able to concentrate better at school and will have a better overall mood if they get enough sleep.

ENCOURAGE YOUR KIDS TO TAKE ON MORE RESPONSIBILITY.

When your cup is full, there is no shame in asking for help. This applies for students of any age in school. They can gain independence in a variety of ways, including helping themselves get dressed in the morning, packing their backpack the night before, and preparing their own lunch. This will provide an outlet for your children’s energy and allow them to feel in control of their surroundings!

Be prepared for this new school year by implementing these hacks above. These tips can not only help you to save time but can also make sure that you and your family are physically and emotionally ready as well!

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Maryann Walsh, MFN, RD, CDE

Registered Dietitian/ Consultan