Three ways to help your kids stay healthy this fall.

Will your kids be safe at school this year?

With so many questions and uncertainty about COVID-19, families are struggling to figure what out how they can protect their children and provide a great education.

There's a level of stress that comes at the beginning of any school year, but this year has everyone on edge.

So, what's a parent to do?

1. Get your kids back into a routine of going to bed early. When they get run down, their small bodies suffer. With a weakened immune system, they're more likely to fall victim to any passing illness.

If they're not feeling well, you'll have irritable children and that can affect their performance at school. Lack of sleep keeps them from being alert in the classroom and focusing on their studies.

2. Make sure your child has a healthy diet. Don't let their dislike of vegetables keep you from preparing delicious meals that will fuel them throughout the day.

There are so many ways to incorporate veggies into their diet. From fruit and vegetable smoothies for breakfast, cut up broccoli, carrots, and celery in their lunch, to spaghetti made with cooked vegetables and zucchini noodles.

Snacks don't have to be full of sugar to be good. Make muffins and brownies made with dark chocolate, rolled oats, bananas, applesauce, and even cooked sweet potatoes. You can add organic protein powders that contain an assortment of fruits, vegetables, antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats.

3. Besides a healthy diet, your child needs to stay active. Today's children spend far too much time playing video games and watching TV. The increase in childhood illnesses and obesity reflect their sedentary lifestyle. This often leads to digestive issues, particularly constipation.

Children should have at least one bowel movement every day. This can be uncomfortable for parents to talk about, however, many adult digestive problems start during childhood. Have open conversations about health issues, so they'll come to you when a problem arises, and they won't be embarrassed.

I believe the increase in childhood illnesses reflects the Standard American Diet (pizza, fries, burgers, chips, and pop) that is so prevalent. It's not that parents don't care. I think they simply don't realize the dangers they and their children face.

The best way to have healthy children is by first being healthy yourself. It won't happen overnight, but with determination and patience, you can change the future of your family.

Don't wait for sickness to hit your family. Take preventative measures today to ensure your kids a great school year and a bright tomorrow.

To your health,

Coach Maggie

Certified Health & Wellness Coach