Healthy Habits for Kids: Starting the School Year Right

As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it’s important to help kids develop healthy habits that will keep them energized, focused, and ready to learn. Starting the school year off right means adopting healthy habits that will help them feel their best and do well in school. Here are the five most important tips to help kids start the school year off right. 

Getting the proper amount of rest is crucial for kids. School-aged children need about 8-10 hours of sleep each night. This helps them:

• Concentrate better
• Remember what they learn
• Have the energy to play and learn 

To ensure a good night’s sleep, establish a regular bedtime routine. Turn off screens at least an hour before bed and create a calming bedtime routine, like reading a book or taking a warm bath.

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and for good reason. Starting the day with a healthy meal gives kids the energy they need to learn and grow. Choose foods that are high in fiber and protein. Some examples of this include:

• Whole-grain cereal with milk
• Yogurt with fruit
• Smoothie with spinach and banana

Avoid sugary cereals and pastries, which can cause a mid-morning energy crash.

Regular physical activity is important for kids’ mental and physical health. It helps them stay healthy by building strong bones and muscles and making them feel happier. Encourage your child to find an activity they enjoy and aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. You can even get the whole family involved to make it more fun and spend some quality time together.

A healthy lunch and nutritious snacks can help kids stay focused and energized throughout the school day. Include a variety of foods in their lunchbox such as:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Whole grains
• Proteins

Avoid packing sugary snacks and drinks, which can lead to a sugar rush and then a crash later on.

Good hygiene is important for preventing the spread of germs and keeping kids healthy. Teach your child to wash their hands frequently, especially before eating and after using the bathroom. Remind them to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or their elbow when they cough or sneeze. Keep hand sanitizer in their backpack for times when soap and water aren’t available..

Starting the school year with healthy habits can make a big difference in your child’s life. By getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, staying active, and practicing good hygiene, kids can feel their best and do well in school. Here at The Organic Snack Company, we care about the well-being of our community. That’s why our Kate’s Real Food bars are made with organic ingredients and packed with nutrients to support physical and mental health. By using the practices mentioned above, kids can feel their best and make the most of their school year. 

For more health and wellness tips, visit our blog.