It’s back-to-school season once again. Exciting time for kids but not necessarily for you. Adults around the world go through a lot of stress this time of year. Asking themselves if the kids have complete school supplies. Will they be able to fit in? What about their “baon”? Will I give them money or prepare their “baon” myself? These are common scenarios during school days that we learn to handle as we go along. However, there are other serious concerns that we need to keep an eye on. Here are some of them and a few tips to address these back-to-school worries.
Unhealthy Eating
Kids have multiple access to unhealthy food. Getting used to sweets and processed food will be a hard habit to break, if left unchecked. If there are no school policies regarding the type of food being served in the canteen, talk to the officers, rally other parents, be vocal in meetings or even start a petition for the school to have, and implement policies geared towards healthy eating. If one is already in place, make sure it’s being implemented. Talk. Have a heart to heart discussion with the little ones and tell them how important healthy eating habits are. You can also prepare their “baon” so you are 100% sure they have nothing but healthy food to consume.
Disease Transmission
If we could put kids in a bubble to protect them from harmful viruses and germs, we would. But that wouldn’t be fun at all, right? The good thing is, our immune system naturally protects us from common diseases. But there are cases where immunity takes a back seat, and this is where healthy eating comes in. If kids eat right, they are more likely to develop a better, stronger immune system. Vaccinations, vitamins and nutritional supplements can also help in protecting children from common diseases such colds or flu. It is also important that we teach children proper hygiene, like hand washing, a sure way to prevent the spread of germs and viruses.
Bullying
Bullying is a serious issue and can be, at most times, difficult to detect. A healthy, open communication within the household is crucial in determining if a child is being bullied. Common signs include explainable injuries; lost or destroyed clothing, books; changes in eating habits, like skipping meals or binge eating; difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares; declining grades, loss of interest in school works or not wanting to go to school; avoidance of social situations; feeling helpless or poor self-esteem. Learn to read your child’s body language or see if they avoid eye contact. A child’s silence may be more telling. If there’s suspicion of bullying, arrange meetings with people who have frequent interactions with the child. Teachers, classmates, friends are a few examples. Find out where the bullying occurs so you could ask help from the most appropriate people. Support children the best way you can and emphasize that you believe in them and you’re always ready to help.
Lack of Exercise
In this day of technological advancements, children are often seen sitting, interacting with their smart phones or tablets. This inactivity could take a heavy toll on them. It has been proven that proper exercise, along with a well-balanced diet can lead to a healthy adult life. Encourage play, it’s a form of exercise. Insert as much physical activity as you can in children’s daily routine. If the destination is nearby, walk. Involve kids in household chores. The sooner a habit of physical activity is built, the easier it will be for children to disengage themselves from a sedentary lifestyle.
These back-to-school blues can ruin a perfectly good day. But remember, prevention is key. For you to prevent and manage all all these issues, you must know what to look for and know how to execute your plan. Medgate is the best source of information about your health concerns. Call them now to talk to any one of their specialist doctors!