Monthly Health Topic

Back To School

Those long, lazy summer days are coming to an end, to be quickly replaced by the hustle and bustle of a new school year. From the first day of first grade to the start of senior year, heading back to school can bring nervous feelings to children of all ages. Help ease back-to-school jitters and start the year off right with these helpful ideas.

• Start the new school schedule a week early. Have your kids wake up and go to bed at school-year times for a full week before the first day.
  
• Create an organized after-school routine. Teach your child to leave his or her backpack in the same spot and do her homework at the same time every day to encourage a life-long habit.
  
• Discuss transportation safety. Tell your kids where to expect crossing guards and point out spots where they need to be extra careful. Also, never leave your child alone at the bus stop – always make sure others are there.
  
• Kids will need to refuel after a long day, so greet them with a smile and a healthy after-school snack. This is the perfect time to reconnect and hear about their day. For lots of creative and healthy snack ideas, visit the Nutritionist section of our website. (Link to Snack Ideas section of Nutritionist page)
  
• Keep mealtimes consistent. Eating breakfast and/or dinner together as a family will keep your kids on a secure schedule, which will help them feel their best and stay organized every day. An added bonus: Studies show that families that eat meals together enjoy benefits that include better health, better communication, better behavior, and even better performance in school.

Your children will pick up on your personal feelings about back-to-school. If you’re excited, your enthusiasm will become part of your child’s experience. If you’re anxious and worried, those feelings will also transfer to your child. Remember to keep a positive attitude about going to school so your kids can enjoy a happy healthy year.

Stock up early on school supplies and beat the rush! From notebooks and pencils to the perfect lunchbox-stuffers, you’ll find all your back-to-school necessities at MARTIN’S!