Getting a Healthy Back-to-School Start

Ways Parents Can Manage Back-to-School Stress

It's that time of the year again! You'll be sending your little ones off to school pretty soon. Unfortunately, with all the hustle and bustle back-to-school season brings, it can be easy to forget about your health and other important aspects of your life. So, while you get your little ones prepared for a brand new school year, make sure you're also taking steps to check in with yourself and your health. 

Less Stress Shopping

The back-to-school season also means having to buy many different supplies and tools. Try not to buy everything at once — as the prices of backpacks, notebooks, and more tend to increase around this time. Instead, go early and more than once. Some stores will also have discounts and coupons, so keep an eye out for those. 

Focus on Your Home's Nutrition 

Did you know that 40% of the total daily calories for two to 18-year-olds are empty calories from added sugars and solid fats? So, while updating your grocery list this school year, try to get your whole home in on eating healthy. You'll find yourself feeling better over time, along with your little ones! Sticking to a healthy dietary pattern has been known to lower stress levels and even decrease the risk of illnesses, like cancer, by 10-20%. 

Make Sleep a Priority

With your whole home getting into a new routine, it can be easy to forget about having a healthy sleeping schedule. Sleep is equally as important as diet and exercise, so don't let your little ones cause you to stay up late. Instead, ensure homework is done well before bedtime, and they aren't up on their digital devices. That way, you can ensure you get your much-needed eight-hour rest!

Not Just Your Kids Need Checkups

Schools require checkups and vaccinations for little ones — but don't forget about yourself! While your children are visiting their doctors, make it a point to schedule an appointment with your physician as well. Especially if you haven't gone in a while, it's important always to be aware of what's happening with your body.