How to Guide Your Kids Through a Healthy Holiday
By Genevieve Cunningham
Staying healthy through the holidays is a tough job. There are so many wonderful foods and delectable drinks. We don't want to miss out! But if you add kids to the mix, it becomes exponentially harder to keep everyone healthy. Kids love all things sugar -- and the holidays are ripe with sugar and sweets. If you want to steer your children toward better health through the holidays, take a look at these tips to get your whole family moving in the right direction.
Keep Them Moving
It's easy for kids to get trapped in the cycle of sleeping in, staying up late, and wasting time in between. If you want healthier kids through the holidays, keep them moving. If they're old enough, take them to the gym with you. Or take them to the park or to an exercise class for kids. You could also take family walks in the evening. There are plenty of ways to keep your kids moving, and doing so might improve their energy, sleeping habits, and overall health over the break.
Limit Sweets
The holidays are a time of sweet treats. It's one of the best parts! But allowing your children to eat too many sweets is only asking for trouble. Sweets are not good for kids (or adults!). The sugar can create hyperactivity -- followed by a crash -- and may also contribute to weight gain and a heightened risk of disease. Sure, let your kids enjoy some dessert, but do so in moderation if health is a concern.
Be Careful of Screen Time
Holiday breaks often mean more screen time for kids. They wake up, reach for their phone, and then plop down in front of a tablet or the TV. Don't fall into this trap! It's setting your kids up for poor physical and mental health. Instead, limit the screen time and get your kids active in something instead. Playing outdoors, crafts, cooking, anything! The more engaged your children are, the better their behavior and the better their health too.
The holidays are definitely a time to splurge a little bit. Eat a little more, sleep a little later, and enjoy the goodness that comes with the season. But it's also important to keep good health in mind. Use these tips to manage your whole family's health, and you can enjoy the rest of the year with wellness for all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Clemente, Calif.