Modeling Healthy Habits for a Successful Autumn
Autumn kicks off back-to-school season, and plenty of schedule challenges await as our children return to the classroom. The most challenging aspect of back-to-school is finding time to get everything done. From shopping to extracurricular activities, parents often find themselves overwhelmed as they navigate a season of new beginnings. With so much going on, finding time to exercise and make time for ourselves can be tricky. However, we must model healthy behaviors to our children. Data shows that children with active parents are 5.8 times more likely to be active than children with inactive parents. Science also shows that children who exercise experience improved academic performance and brain health. This Autumn, we will explore the benefits of staying active during a season of transition and discover how to model healthy habits!
Parents are the primary influencers in their children's lives, especially when it comes to promoting healthy habits. As role models, our actions and choices can shape our children's behavior and set a standard for healthy living. Therefore, when fostering a culture of health within our families, we must first look at ourselves. How we manage stress, handle difficult emotions, and organize our time serve as examples for our children. Being transparent and demonstrating healthy behaviors can inspire our children to do the same! If you own our Frame Reformer, show your children your commitment to wellness! Try one of our mat classes together and experience the thrill of a combined session! As you begin to model healthy behaviors, your children will follow suit!
The simplest way to get your children moving is to schedule time! As their caregiver, you must decide to create space for physical activity. Did you know that only 1 in 4 children get the recommended 60 minutes of exercise daily? Try scheduling a time after school. Remember that being active doesn't always mean getting to the gym but getting creative! Taking the dog for a walk or playing catch in the yard are great ways to exercise without leaving the neighborhood. Working long hours? See if your children's school offers an afterschool program or activity where sports are integrated into the curriculum. Are you only able to fit in 15 minutes each day? No problem! Do what you can with your time and teach your children to drop an all-or-nothing mentality as you model positive attitudes toward exercise!
Exercise benefits children by releasing endorphins and, in turn, creating happier children. Another influential study shows that aerobic exercise changes brain chemistry and enables children to control their behavior and function better in the classroom. Imagine the difference your children will feel entering a school year with an academic plan and a commitment to wellness!
As you embark on a new school year, remember to make time for your fitness routine and your children's! Model the behavior you wish them to emulate, and be mindful of where you can improve! Go with the flow, aim for progress rather than perfection, and encourage them to stay active whenever possible! Create a supportive and safe environment where the habits learned in youth will carry over into adulthood!
