Everyone loves summertime. The usual strict schedules loosen a bit, and days are loaded with fun and exciting activities. Kids tend to stay up later, and bedtime routines are often set aside throughout these fun-filled weeks. But every good thing must come to an end, especially when the goal is to get off to a great start with something new. As the school year approaches, you might want to consider some tips around starting the school year off on the right foot. Begin preparing today with some of these great suggestions.
Develop a Healthy Sleep and Wake Routine - As summertime winds down, help children adjust to earlier bedtimes. It’s important to get into the habit of a good sleep and wake routine at least a couple weeks before the school year starts. Setting a scheduled bedtime which includes a familiar routine will prepare kids for their new school schedule. Some ideas may include planning for bath time after dinner, brushing teeth to a song, and taking some time to connect through reading a book.
Limit Screen Time - Limiting gaming and smartphone use and removing electronic devices from the bedroom is important and beneficial to a good night’s sleep. Check out this Screen Time Swap blog for suggestions on swapping out screen time for some quiet time or an opportunity to connect with family and friends. Adjusting to time away from devices will help kids learn to engage socially and be more creative when “boredom” strikes.
Breakfast - Eating a healthy breakfast is a great way to start the day. The calories and nutrients from an early morning munch will provide kids the fuel and energy needed to get through the first part of their day. Learning takes a lot of energy, and breakfast will assist by helping your student focus more in class. If you need to whip up something quick and want a sweet and crunchy experience, try this Perfect Parfait! If time allows, heat up the stove on a chilly morning and enjoy this savory Warm Veggie Omelette.
School Lunch Menu - School lunches are well balanced and the lunchline options always include a healthy balance of all five food groups. To learn more about balanced meals, check out this informative link to learn more about My Plate Foods. Schools provide families with a hard copy or access to electronic copies of each month’s school menu. Caregivers can review the menu and kids can make lunch choices before the next school day. Spend some time with children in the evening and review the next day’s choices. Going over the menu can inspire conversation around favorite foods and can even be a part of the bedtime routine. Reach out to your school’s main office if you need help finding the lunch menu.
School Meal Application Forms - Schools send school meal applications home at the beginning of each school year. However, you may apply for Free and Reduced Price school meals any time during the school year by submitting an application directly to your school or district. You may ask for an application any time during the school year. If you're earning at or below current Income Eligibility Guidelines, you are encouraged to contact your school or district to fill out a school meal application. Applications are reviewed by local school or district officials before granting free or reduced price benefits. If you receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, all of your children who attend school automatically qualify for free school meals. Please contact your school to determine if you need to fill out an application. Use this School Lunch link for additional information.
Healthy Snacks - Eating a healthy lunch at school can tide kids over for a few hours but an after-school snack might be in demand when they get home from school. To steer hungry bellies away from chips and less nutritious options, consider having some healthy choices on hand. Check out this Cool Blog on Healthy Snacks for some fun and kids-friendly ideas.
Water Bottles - Bringing a water bottle along to school and on other outings is a great habit for kids to adopt. We all need to stay hydrated but kids are often more active and lose a lot of water through exercise and sweat. There is nothing better than a nice cool drink of water when one is thirsty or overheated. Encourage kids to clean and prepare their water bottles the night before school so the bottles are ready to go in the morning. Kids can decorate water bottles with stickers and might enjoy adding in some fruit to jazz up the color and flavor. Check out this Wild Water flavored water recipe for some inspiration.
