Back to School and Keeping Families Healthy and Active
Fall is approaching and kids will be returning back to school. Everyone's schedules are changing and you are wondering how to keep active in the transition for both you and your children. Here are a few tips that may help.

Encourage a Good Night's Sleep
The summer sleep in is almost over. It is important to start changing sleeping schedules and set reasonable bedtimes so the kids will be well-rested and ready to learn every morning. The average child needs at least 9 to 10 hours or more of sleep each night, and more when they are ill.

Walk/cycle with the kids to school
If you're within walking or cycling range of your child's school or activities, join them on their travels. Hop on your bike or walk with them to school! This way, you all get extra family time and your heart gets a workout too!

Schedule your Activities
Now that the summer is coming to a close and holidays are ending, free time may also be more difficult to find. Schedule your exercises and activities so you know when and what you will be doing. Just because summer is over, doesn't mean your workouts have to be!

Promote Habitual Hand Washing
The most effective thing anyone can do to keep from getting sick is to wash their hands. Kids are constantly exposed to germs, so they need to be diligent and habitual about washing their hands frequently. Kids can also keep a dispenser of antimicrobial hand rinse in their desk or backpack to use before lunch or throughout the day, in addition to washing. Fighting germs helps them stay healthy all year long.