BACK TO SCHOOL CHIRO FOR KIDS
As January fades away and with February already underway, it’s time for parents to catch their breath and settle everyone down into a new year of school and school routines. Whether your child is heading into their first year of school, starting a new grade or moving into high school, it’s important to help them develop healthy habits to support their posture and spinal health.
Did you know that children spend around 200 days at school each year? With a lot of that time spent sitting at desks, carrying backpacks, and looking at screens. To help you guide them on ways to maintain their spinal health, the Australian Chiropractic Association (ACA) has put together some checklists and resources, which we’re pleased to share here. Also, if we haven’t seen you or your child/ren lately, then jump online and book an appointment, to make sure they are at their best for a new school and sporting year.
- Backpack Basics. Day 1 and the Book Pack drop off is now over (complete with summer showers!) so now it’s important to minimise the daily backpack weight and ensure an even load distribution when packing the bag. Top tip: Pack heavier items, such as books and laptops, close to their back for better weight distribution. Adjust the straps so the bag sits comfortably between the shoulders and hips.
- Posture Matters. School time means classroom time. To maintain good spinal health, remind your child/ren about the importance of sitting up straight and keeping both feet flat on the floor when sitting at a desk. Top tip: To make it easy, you can download a copy of the ACA’s ‘Sitting Correctly’ flyer.
- Managing Screen Time. Technology plays a big role in both learning and entertainment, but excessive screen time can lead to poor posture and discomfort. Top tip: Encourage limited recreational screen time outside of school hours and regular breaks from the screens.
- Nutrition for Energy and Focus. A balanced diet is essential for energy, concentration and overall well-being. To support their growth and daily activities make sure you remind them to drink lots of water when at school, and aim for healthy lunchbox treats. Top tip: Fresh fruits and vegetables make good school snacks and protein-rich snacks such as cheese, yogurt and/or lean meats will keep them full for longer.
- Encouraging Daily Movement. After (or before) a big day at school, encourage your child/ren to participate in some form of exercise or movement. That could be walking or riding to school, afternoon sports and/or playing outside. Top tip: Make sure they stay hydrated and wear a hat and sunscreen.
You can help your family start the school year strong and build healthy habits to maintain and protect their spinal health. If you have any concerns about their posture, spinal health and/or general wellbeing, we are here to help. Dr Karen Hansor is passionate about chiropractic care for children and specialises in this area – she’s also a Mum and knows first-hand the difference chiropractic care can make, in a child’s development.
If you’d like more information or assistance with any of this, please contact us to make an appointment on 4055 1667 or book online and let’s make this school year a healthy and pain-free one!