Ten Resolutions to Make this September
For families with school-aged children, September is as natural a time to make resolutions as January. Many school habits will be developed (good and bad) during the month of September, so why not tackle developing few lifestyle habits as well? >
These 10 resolutions make sense, not only when switching to back-to-school mode but anytime!
- Wake up earlier. Set alarm clocks for 15 minutes earlier than the usual wake up times to give your family extra time in the morning. You can use the extra minutes to walk around the block or even just eat breakfast together.
- Start reducing screen time. This doesn’t mean going TV free or giving up Facebook. Instead, eliminate one half-hour show per day. Try making the resolution to not waste time watching reruns of shows that you’ve already seen.
- Prepare at night. Choose clothing the night before, re-pack book bags, and prepare lunches to reduce the morning rush.
- Open and empty book bags right after school and avoid discovering moldy fruit, or forgetting about homework assignments.
- Re-hang your wall calendar in a more visible spot. Take 1-2 minutes to have all family members write what’s on their school and social agendas on the calendar.
- Hit the sheets. A better night’s sleep means that children (and adults) will be more mentally alert during the day and less sluggish.
- Hit the books. The sooner that students start with good homework routines, the more likely it is that they will stick with the routine for the entire school year.
- Eat right. Healthy eating habits keep the brain active all day long. Avoid sugary treats and too-heavy meals to avoid sluggishness during the day.
- Make reading part of your September habits. Reading has been shown to increase vocabulary, and boost comprehension, plus reading before bed is very relaxing.
- Get outside. Take in some fresh air, vitamin D, and get the blood pumping with some exercise. It increases circulation and keeps the brain happy.
