If you have teen children, you know that over the next few years, you have to set them up for adulthood. It’s time to teach them fundamentals to guide them through the next few years — and their health should be a priority. Because teens don’t always know what’s best, you have to help. 

Here are seven habits to encourage your kids to lead healthy lives.

 

1. Don’t Skip Physical Activity 

These days, kids have various electronic devices at their fingertips. That’s not necessarily a negative — but screen time can impact your children’s exercise levels when they’re not careful. It’s vital for kids to use their phones and computers in moderation so they can stay physically fit. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children and adolescents should exercise for 60 minutes every day. While your kids won’t always be able to meet that goal, you should encourage them to do their best. This way, they can learn to lead healthy lives. 

It helps to point them toward sports and activities they love so physical activity doesn’t feel like a chore. Ask them to stick with one they enjoy throughout high school, whether that’s varsity football or intramural soccer. This way, your teens won’t think twice about exercise.

 

2. Make Your Plate Colorful 

Here’s a lesson that everyone should remember as they grow older. It’s essential for your teens to eat diverse meals so they get enough nutrients and vitamins. Because they’re likely to lead by example, you can help them eat healthier. 

Do your best to prepare meals with protein, grains, fruits and vegetables. While you don’t need to cook healthy recipes every day, you should introduce your kids to nutritious foods often. Fill their plates with various colors to ensure their diets are well-rounded.

 

3. Always Brush and Floss 

Though the need to brush and floss your teeth doesn’t change as you grow older, you already know that teens can neglect their hygiene. To them, oral health isn’t usually a concern whatsoever. Teens are renowned for being forgetful and distracted about their self-care. That’s why you should still remind your teens about their dental responsibilities. Don’t neglect to set up regular dental visits to help your teen to get rid of plaque with the dentist in massapequa ny either.

Remind them to brush and floss their teeth twice a day. It usually helps to keep mouthwash in the bathroom, which can further protect their teeth and gums. Be sure to keep an eye out for specific oral health issues, like cold sores and gum disease, so you can resolve them promptly.

 

4. Wear Sunscreen When You’re Outside 

Try not to underestimate how powerful the sun can be. If you don’t wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, you can experience skin damage. To help avoid pigmentation and melanoma, your teens should start their suncare habits sooner rather than later. 

Ask them to lather up with SPF 50 whenever they head outside so they stay safe.

 

5. Avoid Sugary Carbonated Drinks 

Though soda may taste delicious, you should note that carbonated beverages aren’t the healthiest. These drinks contain more sugar than you’re allotted for your recommended daily amount, which isn’t terrible in moderation — but when you drink one or more sodas every day, you can put yourself at risk for numerous health issues. 

Instead, you should help your kids make better choices. If your kids don’t like how water tastes, you can add lemon, lime or other fruit juices for flavor. It’s also smart to pick natural fruit juices or low-sugar sports drinks when they want to jazz up their beverage selection.

 

6. Learn to Deal With Stress 

Remember that mental health matters just as much as physical health. Because teens have school- and work-related responsibilities, they can feel stressed and overwhelmed throughout the week. If they don’t learn how to manage their emotions in a productive way, they can overextend themselves. 

Be sure to be as communicative as possible with your teens. Let them know they can come to you with their problems, and you’ll help them find the right solution. It’s smart in general to encourage positive stress-relieving techniques, like meditation, walking, painting and more.

 

7. Try to Get Enough Rest 

Without enough sleep, teens can’t function at their best. Everyone needs to prioritize rest — but teens need sleep to support their development over the coming years. Between class, extracurricular activities and other responsibilities, your kids also need rest to recuperate after long days. 

Ensure your children sleep for around eight to 10 hours every night. Be sure to have them shut off their phones about 30 minutes before bed so they don’t have trouble falling asleep. This way, they’ll have a solid sleep schedule in place.

 

Help Your Teens Support Themselves With These Tricks 

While your kids get older, they’ll need to adopt new habits to ensure they lead healthy lives. That’s where you can help. It’s your job to teach them which choices are best for their health as they grow into adults.