As you settle into your back-to-school routines, your to-do list might be getting lengthier. If you're struggling to add family health and wellness to your new-school-year schedule, this checklist can make it easier.
Make Back-to-School Easy With Our Checklist
There is a wealth of things you need to ensure that the school year kicks off right, from making sure that the kids have all of their supplies, to ensuring they have a reasonable sleep schedule. Whatever is on your to-do list, we're here to make that process easier. Take a look at our back-to-school wellness checklist and the benefits it can offer your family.
Physical Wellness
Physical wellness is often at the top of the list when it comes to health concerns. As the school year begins:
- Make sure that the kids are up-to-date on any needed vaccines
- Schedule a physical if needed, and keep in mind that many youth sports will require one
- Get your child back on a solid sleep schedule
- Schedule vision and/or hearing checks
- Look for new activities for your child to help them stay active and engaged, especially if they won't be participating in school sports or ongoing activities
Mental Wellness
Mental wellness is every bit as important as physical wellness. The beginning of the school year can create high levels of anxiety and stress for many students, but there are many ways to help kids ease into the new year:
- Connect with new teachers as soon as possible
- If your child is working with a therapist, schedule an appointment to ensure they're keeping up with their mental health
- Set aside time for conversations or mental health check-ins with your child
- Schedule time with friends or family activities early in the year
- Create a routine that is conducive to overall mental wellness, including plenty of time for rest, moving their body, and socialization
Nutrition Wellness
During the summer, it's easy to choose simply or fast meals that let nutrition fall by the wayside. Getting your family on a health eating routine can discourage illness and keep all of you feeling more energetic as the year progresses.
- Make a grocery list and a meal plan. Consider the benefits of a rotating health meal schedule that allows you to keep nutritious meals on the table all year round
- Fill the cabinets and fridge with healthy snacks, including fruits and vegetables, nuts, cheese sticks, and other kid-friendly favorites
- Plan for school meals, especially if your child won't be eating cafeteria food
- Buy a new water bottle or create a plan for maintaining hydration
Wellness for the Whole Family — Stop by the Y
Are you interested in getting your family moving more often? Our membership can be a game-changer on your path to wellness, offering kids a chance to socialize and stay active through youth sports, or giving the whole family a place to connect in the wellness center. Whatever you decide, the Y can help support your entire family's journey into the new school year. Stop by today and learn more about what we have to offer and how it can help encourage wellness this year.