There are few things worse than watching your teen struggle with their posture. Healthy habits are hard to instill. The pervasive use of electronic devices has most parents frustrated and the advent of concerns of "text neck" are just the beginning! We all look at our kids' lifestyles and wonder how they are going to overcome these modern challenges.
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As your kids grow and mature, it is important to help them create healthy habits that can prevent common musculoskeletal issues like poor posture, neck and back pain and even bulging discs. Posture correction may seem like a daunting task. With a few helpful tips, you can teach your teens early on about the importance of good posture and a healthy diet. Nagging has never worked, but inviting your kids into some dialogue about healthier habits is something we all can do! To help you get started we offer here 4 suggestions for great conversations and actionable ideas: 4 Healthy Habits to Instill in Your Teens.
Stop the Slump
Most parents remember being told to sit up straight as a teen and the same should go for your kids. Teens may feel they are too tall or simply spend long hours in a desk and end up slouching. When they’re home, try to make sure they have plenty to do to keep them from sitting all day and consider using a sit-to-stand desk for homework.
Skip the Sugar
Whether they love soda, energy drinks or frothy Frappuccinos - sugary drinks can cause a myriad of different health problems. Too much sugar consumption can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and more. Introduce your teens to sugar substitutes that can easily be added to water to keep them hydrated and healthy. While there is not a direct connection between lower sugar intake and better posture, healthier bones are more hydrated bones. If skipping the sugar can be coupled with more water intake the benefits will realize.
Spend Some Time Moving Around
Even if your teen isn’t a star athlete, it is important for them to get up and get some exercise each day. With low impact exercises like walking, biking and jogging, they can improve their heart health, keep off extra weight and strengthen their muscles. Want some extra motivation to get your teen up and moving each hour? Try investing in a fitness tracker so that they can track their progress on their PC or smartphone. You don't have to get fancy with an Apple Watch. A simple pedometer can provide a fun way to track your steps and even spark some "healthy" (see what we did there?) competition!
Share the Stretching
Incorporating a few stretches into your daily routine will help with not only posture, but also better blood flow throughout your body. Encourage your teen to perform these few simple stretches to ensure healthy muscles and joints for years to come.
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With a few helpful tips and a bit of loving direction from you, your teens can begin building healthy habits that they will carry with them for years to come.
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