Get Through to Tough Teens With These Health Tips
By Genevieve Cunningham
The teenage years are among the toughest … for both the teens and the parents! Teenagers aren’t typically known for their listening skills, but there are definitely some important things that adults want them to hear and practice in their lives. One of the most important is good health habits. But, just like everything else, it can be hard to get teenagers to understand their importance. If you need a little help pushing your teen toward better habits, take a look at these tips to get you moving in the right direction.
Get Peers Involved
Unfortunately, teenagers are much more likely to listen to their peers than anyone else. If need be, get peers involved in their health and fitness. Take them places -- like the gym or a team sport -- so that they can make friends with someone there. Don’t tell them that this is the goal, but make sure to expose them to plenty of different people. If they form a peer group that is interested in staying healthy, they are far more likely to stick with it long-term.
Pay Attention to Interests
Teenagers aren’t going to do something unless it’s a personal interest. You can really help this by paying attention to their interests, and then catering to them. Do they enjoy sports? Get them involved with a nearby team. Are they into the outdoors? Find a hiking group or take them to a state park regularly. Go with what they enjoy, and your teen is more likely to take the lead into their own health.
Do It First
Even though they’ll never admit it, teens are still watching what you do. If you are active and strive for better health, your kids are more likely to do the same, no matter their age. If you really want healthy kids, be the example. Get up and move, exercise regularly, and eat well. While this certainly isn’t foolproof, it’s definitely a better approach than telling them one thing and doing another.
Teens are tough. They don’t listen, rarely agree with you, and certainly don’t understand the ramifications of their actions. But … we still want them to be healthy. Encourage the teens in your life to be healthy with these tips, and you may help set them up for healthy living for a lifetime.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Miami Gardens, Fla.