Back to School Tips to Eat Smart and Move More

blackboard and school supplies on a deskSummer feels like it’s only just begun, but the beginning of August brings the Back to School season. Families are shopping for school supplies and trying to soak up the last bit of outdoor fun before the school bell rings. Since your family’s schedule is getting ready to change, now is a great time to add in some healthy practices to your school year routine. Here are a few ideas for helping your family eat smart and move more this school year. Be sure to check out today’s Facebook Live for more details and ideas.

Eat School Breakfast and Lunch

School meals have gotten better since the Health Hunger Free Kids Act revamped nutrition standards. There are more fruits, veggies, and whole grains and less fat and sodium. Win-Win! You can read more about the changes to school breakfast and school lunch. Check with your school to see if your child is eligible for free or reduced price school meals.

mom packing fruit into lunchbox for kids

Plan Healthy Meals and Snacks

Start the day with a healthy breakfast even on busy mornings. If you choose to pack lunches for your child, check out our meal ideas. Have smart snacks ready to eat for hungry kids after school. Find time during the week to eat a family meal together.

Encourage Physical Activity to Move More for a Lifetime

Kids need 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Let them to play outside now to establish physical activity routines for colder weather. Active kids are more likely to be active adults, but activity levels drop after graduation, especially for young women. Team sports are fun, but you may want to encourage individual sports, like track or cross country and swimming, so they can continue on their own after graduating.

When kids eat smart and move more, they do better in school. Help your kids succeed this year by serving healthy meals and snacks and making sure they meet the physical activity recommendations. We’d love to hear your thoughts, suggestions or feedback on how you help your kids have a healthy school year, too!

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