From the final cannonball at the neighborhood pool to a last-minute trip to the amusement park, summer is quickly winding down and the new school year is gearing up. While parents and kids are eager to see what the year will bring, it’s a good time to be mindful of safety tips and health-promoting practices.
The Importance of Physical Activity
While many kiddos spend their summers glued to digital devices, encouraging regular exercise is vital for your child’s overall health.
“Daily physical activity not only protects your child’s heart but also decreases future risks of diabetes and arthritis,” Dr. Shaye noted.
Walking to school (when safe and feasible), participating in organized sports, or simply running around on the playground can all contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Safety in Sports and Play
When it comes to sports and recreational activities, safety should always be a top priority. It’s important to ensure your child uses proper equipment, such as well-fitting helmets for collision sports. “A properly anchored soccer goal or a shock-absorbing playground surface can make all the difference in preventing serious injuries,” said Dr. Shaye.
The Hidden Dangers of Backpacks
Is your child or teen toting too much? Maybe it feels like they have a load of bricks in their backpacks. Overloaded backpacks can lead to temporary discomfort and potentially long-term health issues. A simple way to address this is by weighing your child’s backpack and ensuring it doesn’t exceed 10% of their body weight. Also, even if it’s not “cool,” using both shoulder straps (and a waist strap when possible, to load the weight on the hips) helps reduce back pain. Being in pain is NOT “cool.”
Nourishing Bodies and Minds
It’s time to jettison the junk food. Packing healthy school lunches is crucial for your child’s academic performance and overall well-being. Choose balanced meals with a mix of proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to provide the necessary nutrients for growing bodies and active minds. When possible, make plant-based foods the base of nutrition. Make nutritious food part of their education and life habits. Encourage your child to make healthy choices and involve them in lunch planning and preparation.
Safety in Numbers & Awareness
Safety should be a top priority when traveling to and from school. Encourage your kids to walk in groups and teach them to be aware of their surroundings. This includes being cautious of traffic and potential human hazards. Establish safe routes and discuss the importance of staying alert and minimizing or avoiding distractions like mobile devices while walking.
Chiropractic Care for Back-to-School Health
As kids return to school, their bodies may experience stress from sitting for long periods, carrying heavy backpacks, or participating in sports. Chiropractic care can help address these issues by ensuring proper spinal alignment, reducing muscle tension, and promoting overall physical well-being. Consider a back-to-school chiropractic check-up at Performance Chiropractic to start the year on a healthy note.
Book an Appointment
Take the first step toward a healthier school year by scheduling your child’s chiropractic check-up with Dr. Shaye!