Marc Wellness International Blog

 Well, school’s back after a long summer break in Oz. And here are some healthy tips to start the new school year!

Tip 1: Healthy Lunchbox from the start
We all know how difficult it is for kids to eat fruit & vegetables, but think about this for a moment. We give kids their breakfast before school in which they may eat cereal, toast and some fruit, then they are at school all day, they get afternoon snack and dinner with us. So, what are the kids eating all day long whilst they are at school? And is the food they’re eating nutritious enough to ensure they are getting their daily intake of fruit and veges?  
So it is really important for the lunchbox to be filled with foods which are enjoyable for the kids to eat as well as nutritious with fruits and vegetables otherwise come dinner time there is a lot of catching up to do with ensuring they get their daily intake of nutritious foods. Lunchbox ideas can include: cut up pieces of fruit, popcorn, cucumber/celery/carrot sticks with cheese dip, rice crackers, vita brits with vegemite and cheese, sandwiches or wraps with fillings such as chicken, tuna, ham and salad. Set a goal with the kids to start the new year with a healthy lunchbox and continue the way throughout the term.

 Tip 2: Water Bottle is a must
 Especially in Australia at the moment it is really hot in the first term of school with summer. So ensure your kids have their own water bottle in which they can refill daily. For the younger kids ask them to choose a water bottle with their favourite characters on it, so they will like the look of it. Ensure to fill the water bottle daily with water so the kids keep hydrated throughout the day at school. If you struggle to get your kids to drink water then put a splash of lemon or apple juice in the water for flavour.  

Tip 3: Set Active Goals 
Set some active goals with the kids. Find out what the kids want to do this term and set some goals with them. They may like to join the school or local sporting team or go swimming more at the pool or beach. Ask the kids to write the goals down, for younger kids they can draw pictures on the paper that relate to their goals. Then place the paper on the fridge or on the wall in their bedroom where they can see it and remember their goal. 

 Tip 4: Role Models 
Be a great role model for your kids and get active with them. Find time in the afternoon or on weekends to go swimming with the kids or to the park. Kids especially younger kids love it when mum or dad can join in and play games with them. For the older kids find out who their active role models are, if it is a soccer player or AFL player and encourage them to get active as per their role model. 

Enjoy the start of Term 1 back to school. If you have any tips you want to share with other parents about what you do to motivate your kids to get active or healthy in the new school year then post them below. 

Have a great day! 
Joey