Read the August 2021 issue of Mithomahcihowin – NCN Family & Community Wellness Centre’s bi-monthly health and wellness news update.
Featured Story
Back to School! Are You Ready?
Routines Create Success in School
Of course, things can change quickly, but it looks like our NCN children can expect to return to their typical school experience next month. They may be excited to return to normalcy with all the excitement that school offers, or they may feel anxious.
Either way, a daily routine is a wonderful way to create a framework for your child’s day that will allow them to thrive.
Many people think spontaneity is what kids like the most, but often, children appreciate the same routine day in and day out. Think about it. Children don’t have a lot of control in their lives, and surprises are constant. There can be a lot of empowerment in knowing what your day will look like for young kids.
To create healthy routines, consider these parts of the day.
- Sleep is crucial for children. Their bodies develop during that important downtime. Their minds are more alert and their behaviours more stable with an appropriate sleep schedule. Despite this, most children don’t get nearly enough sleep! While it’s normal for kids to stay up later during summer, start getting your kids’ bedtimes back on track. Go to bed 15 minutes earlier and wake up 15 minutes earlier every few days to return to your school schedule.
- Keep the mornings calm. Wake up with plenty of time to get ready. Drink a glass of water, eat a healthy breakfast, brush your teeth and get to school on time.
- Set aside 15 minutes when kids return after school to unpack the day and prepare for tomorrow. Empty backpacks, sign paperwork, figure out homework, and enjoy a healthy snack. Assess your kids’ moods to see what they need. Snuggle and a chat? A bike ride with Auntie? Alone time?
- Make homework a priority and stay tuned into their schoolwork. Create a space where they can focus and work. Read to them every day, or read the novel they’re studying. If you have concerns (and even if you don’t), reach out to the teacher. They’ll be happy to know school is a priority in your home.
- Start winding down for bedtime at least an hour before. Prepare for the next morning to have a good start: put out clothes, make lunches and put homework into backpacks. Turn off all screens and do something quiet as a family: read books, go for a walk, check the garden, etc.
- Every week or so, assess your kids’ friendships, screen time and mental state. Strengthen friendships with families who focus on school. Limit screen time to avoid physical, emotional and mental damage. Be your child’s safe space by helping them feel relaxed and comfortable at home.
IN THIS ISSUE:
- PERSONAL JOURNEY – Easing Into a Covid World
- FAMILY SUPPORT – Talking to Your Kids About Consent and Sex
- COMMUNITY HEALTH – Medicine Lodge and NCN FCWC Jointly Offer New Youth Addictions Wellness Gathering
- Why Children Need Regular Vision Screenings and Eye Exams
- Dealing with FASD and Building on Child’s Strengths
- New Federal Holiday to Honour Residential School Victims
- Recognizing Lateral Violence
- Your Path to Wellness: Circle of Care
- Your Path to Wellness: NCN Fitness Centre
