Smart phones. Fast food. Social media. Innocent words on their own, but putting them together makes it easy to see why exercise, a balanced diet, and rewarding relationships are important for teens. Fortunately, there are strategies to help teens navigate today’s temptations and build life-long healthy habits. Here are few ways to get started.
The Diet Dance: A poor diet can cause obesity, blood pressure problems, and blood sugar issues. This is a good reason to encourage your children to eat right. But most families are busy—so busy that to-go food has become a staple. So, what can you do? Dust off the crock pot and involve your teen in slow cooked meals prepared at night for the next day. It’s fast, fun, and delicious. Or, take teen-favorite foods and convert them to healthier options such as homemade pizza with veggies and whole wheat crust, baked sweet potato fries, and flavored seltzer water. Be creative and let your teen take the lead.
Move It, Move It: Excessive screen time can cause changes in the brain that affect teens’ focus, sleep, social aptitude, and ability to deal with ever-changing emotions. Simply cutting screen time may result in a battle, so think creatively: Sign up your teen for a gym membership or a team sport—something fun. Try cardio classes or cycling where teens can burn energy and boost endorphins. Or, have them check out a yoga class to help calm mind, body, and spirit.
Connections with Others: Sadly, one of the biggest issues with the electronic age is lack of social interaction. Teens talk via text and social media where misunderstandings are common. Even video games have emerged as teen get-togethers. Combat this by finding a teen or volunteer program to help promote social skills and teach the art of giving back. You can also keep an eye out for opportunities to volunteer as Global Youth Service Day approaches on April 20.
Emotional Check Up: The teen years are a time of emotional upheaval, as hormonal wiring can be anything but stable. But sometimes that upheaval is a signal of more than just normal teen angst. Encourage your teen to talk, and actively listen without judging or rushing to offer a solution. If you sense your child is struggling, help them find a therapist—one they choose and feel comfortable with—so they can open up about their feelings.
As always visit your local YMCA and learn more about our programs.