How Do My Child’s Lifestyle Choices Affect their Education?

Parents are always looking for ways to support their child’s academic progression, whether that means helping with homework, hiring a private tutor, or communicating regularly with the teachers to monitor development. One thing you may not have considered when looking for ways to help your child succeed is ensuring they are making healthy lifestyle choices. I have teamed up with a private school in Oxford to explore in further detail how certain lifestyle factors can affect schooling.

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First of all, you should consider your child’s diet. Obviously as they get older and become more independent, it’s slightly harder to monitor what they’re eating or what snacks they’re reaching for, but since you’re the one likely doing the food shopping, you should think carefully about what you’re choosing to stock the cupboards with. Sugary snacks will give your child an energy boost, but this won’t last; it will be followed by a crash and they won’t be able to concentrate. Encourage your child to eat a filling, nutritious breakfast, like yoghurt or porridge with fruit and fibre, as this will set them up for the day. It’s also important that your child stays hydrated, so make sure they have a decent water bottle to take to school that they can refill throughout the day.

Another thing to think about is the amount of exercise your child is getting. Many young people nowadays are addicted to their smartphones and games consoles, which means they are not getting enough fresh air or exercise. While exercise is obviously crucial for physical health, it can also help with things like attention span and memory, which are important skills to possess as a student. What’s more, exercise can reduce stress, so if you’re child is struggling with a subject or going through exam period, be sure to encourage them to go for a walk or kick a ball about outside.

Finally, make sure your child is going to bed at a reasonable time. Without 8-ish hours of sleep each evening, your child will feel sluggish in school and won’t be able to focus. Lack of sleep can also lead to more serious problems, like high blood pressure and mental health issues. Encourage your child to switch off their digital devices an hour or so before bed so that they have time to wind down.

*Collaborative Post

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