At Hospitality Health ER in Tyler, we come across parents that have the same struggles of raising a teenager as many of us do. You probably still remember what your teen years were like — bodily changes, dating, parties, and the pressures of fitting in and performing well in school. For some teens, this transition into adulthood is an exciting time. But for others, it can be quite overwhelming. As your kids are forming their identity, they will need your guidance and support.
What can you do to help them thrive? Because teenage years can be a delicate time for both teens and their parents, Hospitality Health ER in Tyler is releasing a 4-part blog series with tips for helping your teenager develop into a well-rounded individual. This involves four critical facets of their overall health: physical, emotional, mental, and behavioral. Today, let’s look at some habits to promote their physical wellbeing.
Although looks aren’t everything, teach your child that how you present yourself matters. Physical care and grooming shows others that you value yourself. Besides brushing hair and teeth, here are some other important lifestyle habits that can truly make a difference.
- Exercise every day. Teens need to exercise at least 60 minutes every day. What are the benefits of exercise in teenage years? Just like with any other age, regular exercise can help with disease prevention, weight control, and mental health maintenance. Go exercise with them when you can, so they see you’re willing to put in the work too.
- Select healthy foods to eat. Guide them to foods that support growth, development, and healthy weight. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins in their diet. Obese children are more likely to suffer from depression and bullying, so it’s important to model healthy habits in their earlier years — well before reaching teenage years.
- Get enough sleep. Sleep is such an important component during the teen years because it can impact their academic performance. While most teens only get about 7 hours of sleep at night, they should be getting 9 to 9 ½ hours.
- Take care of your body now to prevent medical conditions in the future. Some types of damage are cumulative, and it is important to teach your child what choices could have consequences down the road. For example, sunburn in younger years can actually increase your child’s risk for skin cancer later in life, so encourage sunscreen. Also, teach them to listen to their devices or headsets at low volume levels to avoid hearing loss.
To learn more about Raising a Well-Rounded Teenager, read the entire series including how to support their mental, social, and behavioral development.
