How To Keep Your Kids Healthy This School Year

This school year, keeping your kids healthy is more important than ever. Here are five tips for how your children can put their physical and mental health first.

1. Exercise

Exercising is one of the most effective ways to improve overall well-being. From building strong bones and muscles to reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, regular physical activity can help your child thrive. While most people think that exercising means going to the gym, this isn’t the case for children. Playing activities such as tag or walking to school are great ways to be physically active. For children between the ages of 5 and 18, it’s generally recommended that they exercise for at least one hour a day. In addition, exercising outside is ideal because sun exposure causes the brain to release serotonin. This hormone is responsible for regulating feelings of well-being and happiness, which can give your child an extra boost.

2. Take Supplements

Your children are growing, which is why it’s important to ensure that they’re getting all the vitamins and minerals that their bodies need.Sometimes children do not make good food choices and don’t’ get the nutritional support they need.Taking supplements is a quick and easy way to get in some extra nourishment. The USANA Refer a Friend program can help you save on healthy supplements, snacks and shakes. Some of the most popular supplements include:

• Calcium for strong bones
• Vitamin B for metabolism and energy production
• Probiotics for digestive support
• Fish oil for immune and brain health
• Vitamins A, C and E for skin health

3. Do a Digital Detox

In today’s digital age, children spend four to six hours a day on electronic devices, while teens can spend up to nine hours. Although it can be difficult to persuade your child to stop scrolling through social media or watching the latest episode of their favorite TV show, taking a break from technology can have numerous benefits. Studies have shown that simply taking a 30-minute break can reduce stress, improve mood and increase productivity.

If your child is having trouble cutting back on their screen time, try encouraging them to start out with a quick five-minute break at first. If they can achieve this, increase the break by five minutes the next day, and so on. You can also eliminate your child’s temptation to use their phone before bed by keeping it out of their room after a certain time.

4. Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

Did you know that many of the most popular household cleaning products are full of harmful ingredients, such as antifreeze, formaldehyde and ammonia? These compounds have been shown to negatively affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and they can even shift the balance of chemicals in the brain. This is especially damaging for developing children.

The good news is that there are plenty of natural alternatives on the market that clean just as effectively. A good place to start is the Environmental Working Group database, which assigns products letter grades based on their toxicity.

5. Pick Up a Hobby

Children spend so many hours at school, which is why having a creative outlet is a great way for them to unwind after a long day. Studies have shown that people who regularly engage in hobbies are less likely to suffer from anxiety, depression or stress. Furthermore, having a purpose in life can give them something to look forward to each day and therefore improve their well-being.

Whether your child decides to pick up a musical instrument or complete a crossword puzzle, engaging in a hobby can allow them to expand their horizons and take part in something they’re passionate about.

School can be overwhelming for children, which is why it’s important to prioritize their physical and mental health. Implementing these five tips into your children’s lives can help them to feel more fulfilled on a daily basis.