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It's time to say goodbye to another summer and that means the kids will be headed back to school. What a crazy time for parents who are dealing with a lot, from school supplies and new clothes to vaccinations.
Well, Pontchartrain Pediatrics is pretty hectic too this time of year as families fill the waiting room for back-to-school immunizations or sports physicals.
Kids who are healthy, happy and well-rested have the best chance of succeeding in the classroom, and in life. So what are some of the things parents should think about before the first school bell rings?
A sleep-deprived child can be easy to spot based on their mood and alertness. Lack of sleep is also one of the top contributors to childhood depression.
It's normal for children to have a little more wiggle room around bedtime during the summer months. As crazy as it sounds, 9 - 10 hours of sleep each night what we recommended, but this certainly depends on your child.
Rule of thumb is to determine how many hours did they sleep during the summer going to bed at a later time? Use that number to calculate a reasonable bedtime: If they need 10 hours of sleep, and have to get up at 7 a.m., they should go to bed at 9 p.m.
Wow, you already have some math homework!
Next to sleep, good nutrition is the cornerstone of a child's overall health and academic success. We recommend multiple servings of fruits and vegetables each day (Don't skip breakfast!).
Try to develop a routine and send your kids to school with some healthy options to make life easier on everyone.
Kids need exercise every day. Kids who run and play feel better, sleep better and do better in school. If it helps get them on their feet, turn off the TV and put away the video games.
When children run, play, or simply move around more they feel better, sleep better and perform better in school. It's time to reduce the screen time and lead by example by suggesting a family walk each night after dinner. Enrolling your child into school sports and clubs that offer outdoor activities can be the most effective way to get your child moving more.
It's never too late to introduce something healthy into your child's routine, or just to start creating a routine that works for everyone.