5 Tips for Back to School (or Back to Routine)
September. The official start of the new school year and a return to “routine” for everyone. And although this year, back to school may mean something different to everyone, there are few things I’m doing, as a parent, to help ease my kids back into their new routines.
1. Set firm boundaries around sleep.
My partner and I are borderline militant when it comes to our bedtime routine. The routine is a bit different for each kid, but it basically follows what we have been doing since they were babies. Once we start the routine, we don’t deviate. It helps everyone to know what to expect and helpful to set them up for a successful next day.
2. Prioritize protein at meals.
Protein is so important especially for growing kids who need it to build muscles and bones - and brains! It also helps to keep their blood sugar regulated just like adults - keeping them focused on learning during the school day. Giving them a little extra slow burning fuel, like protein, will sustain their energy to recess or lunch time.
Some good school friendly protein choices are hard boiled eggs, leftover chicken, hemp hearts, chickpeas and edamame.
3. Set a schedule for screen time.
It has been really hard to shift our children’s use of screens for pleasure to using it as a tool for learning and social engagement. This may be the hardest part of the transition back to school for our family. Our plan is to schedule everyone only 2 time blocks for screens per day, one for school or work and the other for fun.
4. Get outside daily
An upside of the pandemic for our family was getting back to basics in nature. From learning to ride bikes, skateboards and rollerblades on the street to organizing good ol’ fashioned lemonade stands and charity drives, it’s been awesome to see kiddos enjoy the outdoors. I hope that we can continue to nurture this appreciation for Mother Nature!
5. Get my supplement superheroes ready*
As part of my back to school prep, restocking my go-to supplements for the kids is one of my priorities. I use them to fill in the nutritional gaps, just in case they don’t always eat or like what I pack for them, as well as give them a little extra protection against any unwanted germs they will inevitably come into contact with.
My must haves are:
probiotics to support the gut and immune system
omega 3s for brain and cognitive function
vitamin C, vitamin D for general immunity
Echinacea and elderberry as my anti-viral herbs
It can be difficult to figure out dosing and best routes of administration for picky kids, so this is a great time to check in with your Naturopathic Doctor (ND) on what is the best for you and your family. With wellbe’s well stocked dispensary we can care for all of your family’s back to school needs so stop by for a chat anytime and let’s see how we can set you up for success this September!
*Please note supplements may vary per family needs. Please speak to your ND for more information.