Written by Dr. Rachel Schwartzman ND
Thank you to Genestra Brands® for sponsoring this post.
It was just a few months ago the kids ran out (away!) from the school building, and now they are heading back. While we have been enjoying the leisure of summer mornings, and ditching homework for the park, today’s Blog Post, is all about getting the kids ready and healthy for the back to school rush.
A bedtime routine. The summer is great for that laissez faire attitude, but now that we need to get to school on time, those late summer nights need to come to an end. Lack of sleep is directly connected to poor attention and memory, lower grades and mood disturbances.
Start by turning technology off at least an hour before bed.
Keep lights dim and the mood calm.
Set a bedtime routine with bath/shower, reading, and snuggles.
Be mindful of sugar. We’ve enjoyed many summer ice creams and popsicles, but now that school is back we want to decrease the sugar load. Sugar is linked to hyperactivity, poor focus and depletes our immune systems. Back to school means being surrounded by germs and in order to minimize illnesses we need to keep the sugar out.
Increase fruits and vegetables. We want our children to “eat the rainbow”. With such bounty this summer of fresh and local produce it should come easily. Fresh produce is rich in vitamins, minerals,
fiber and antioxidants. These foods keep us energetic and healthy, which are two essential ingredients for successful learning.
Bring back the supplements. I’m often asked what supplements kids should have. Probiotics are key players to our children’s overall health. A healthy gut not only supports the digestive system, but is linked to a strong immune system. Vitamin D is important for mood, energy and immune health, and we are often deficient in this crucial vitamin.
I often recommend Genesta’s HMF Fit for School.
It’s a high quality probiotic with an added daily dose of vitamin C and vitamin D.
I’m a big fan of keeping things simple. Having important nutrients in one convenient and tasty tablet that kids love, makes my job as a mom super easy. You can’t get better than that.
For those nervous moments. A cup of chamomile tea is amazing for calming nervous minds and tummies. We make a pot with the flowers and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. Add a little honey, and watch your kids enjoy this tasty beverage.
I hope you enjoy the last few days of summer and have a smooth transition with the back to school craze. Keeping your little ones healthy all year round ensures everyone in the family is rested and happy.
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