Developing a daily routine of healthy habits at home can enhance children’s ability to focus and learn effectively in the classroom. Janice Hall and Erin Reznicek, specialists with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System’s Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAPEd), provide tips for parents and guardians to support their child’s learning experience at home.
Eat a Nutritious Breakfast A healthy breakfast is a critical part of a student’s day, providing the energy needed for learning and concentration.
“Establishing a routine of eating breakfast can give children the fuel they need to focus on learning,” Hall said. “Children who eat breakfast perform better academically, have higher school attendance and are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.”
Many schools across Alabama offer a School Breakfast Program. Children who participate in the SNAP are eligible to receive free breakfast and lunch. Support your child by knowing when breakfast is served and planning school arrivals accordingly.
Eating a nutritious breakfast at home can also be quick and easy. Providing a balanced meal that includes whole grains, fruits and protein is a great way to start the day. Nutritious breakfast recipes can be found at www.LiveWellAlabama.com.
“I occasionally prepare breakfast but love the option of our children having a healthy breakfast at school,” Hall said. “One of my favorite things to do for onthe- go breakfasts is drawing a heart or writing a little message on the wrapper or container.”
The Role of School Lunch Programs
School lunch programs play a vital role in providing nutritious meals to students. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), school meals are the healthiest meals most children get in a day. This helps them maintain energy levels and stay focused in class. Review the school lunch menus with your child and talk about the food options offered.
“Lunchtime is an exciting part of the school day,” Hall said. “It’s not just about eating but also about socializing, which helps build healthy bodies and relationships.”
There are other habits that you can do at home to support healthy food choices. These include involving your child in cooking meals, shopping for groceries and reviewing nutrition labels.
Prioritizing Sleep for Optimal Learning
Adequate sleep is essential for children’s physical health, emotional well-being and academic performance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children ages 6 to 12 should get nine to 12 hours of sleep per night. Teenagers ages 13 to 18 should aim for eight to 10 hours. To accomplish this, help your child establish a consistent bedtime routine. Also, create a calming environment to help them wind down and get the rest needed to function effectively during school.
Limiting screen time before bed can also improve sleep quality. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends setting boundaries on screen time in the evenings to avoid disruptions in sleep.
Encourage Physical Activity
Regular physical activity is essential for children’s growth and development. The CDC recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate- to-vigorous physical activity for children each day.
The Alabama State Department of Education requires at least 30 minutes of daily instructional physical education for students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Schools often offer extracurricular sports, providing more opportunities for students to stay active. Encourage your child to take part in these activities and find ways to be active as a family, such as walking or biking together.
Reznicek observes that after some movement, her children can focus better on their homework and experience better sleep at night.
Get Involved
Parental involvement in school activities is vital to a child’s learning and development. Engaging regularly with teachers, reading school newsletters and volunteering for school programs are just a few ways you can participate in your child’s education.
By incorporating these healthy habits into daily routines, you can contribute significantly to your child’s well-being and help lay a strong foundation for a successful school year.
