How good health boosts learning
Today’s unrelenting focus on good reports and doing well in every test can leave some children exhausted, anxious and unmotivated. As they strive to do their best academically, it’s easy for children to forget about their well being and lose a healthy balance in life.
The good news is that parents can show their children how to put health first and avoid the downward spiral to burn out. Being in a good place, physically and mentally, can help children of any age achieve their academic goals. Here are some tips for helping children to maintain good health and how it can boost their learning.
Sleep for staying focused
If your child is tired, they’ll find it difficult to focus in class. Helping them to establish the right sleep patterns could make a big difference. According to America’s National Sleep Foundation, children need 8-12 hours of sleep a night, depending on their age. Limiting use of electronics for a while before bedtime will also help them fall asleep more quickly, as screen glare can delay sleep even when you’re tired. Agree a time to put all devices down and try to lead by example by doing the same thing yourself.
Mental health for high self-esteem
Performance and confidence can chase each other down a spiral. A disappointing result reduces confidence, which undermines the next result and further reduces confidence and so on. Anxiety can make even the hardest-working children under perform, so helping your child get past their insecurities will help them to succeed. If you see your child struggling with a subject, try to avoid simply enforcing more study. Instead, find a different way to explain the ideas to them, so they realise they can figure things out with a little help and effort. With some gentle patience and the right approach, most kids can learn things just fine.
Physical activity for motivation
It’s very important for children to stay active because it gives them energy and maintains motivation. Any physical activity will develop coordination, dexterity and muscle density, while also helping their brain to become more active. You could sign your child up for a regular sports commitment they’ll enjoy, or start a family tradition of after dinner walks or taking bike rides together a few times a week.
Good food for brain power
Fast food and sugary things don’t have the nutrients children need to develop their brains. Ensuring their diet includes a lot of veggies, fruit, lean meats, grains and dairy will give them all the energy and goodness they need to develop their mental capabilities. Being overweight can also lead to all sorts of health problems, such as an increased risk of diabetes and hypertension, sleep apnoea, loss of bone density and psycho social complications. Doing well at school is not easy when you’re struggling with issues like these.
Together is always better
It’s vital to include your child in any strategies to improve or protect their physical and mental well being. Teach them how to care for themselves, explain why it’s so important and remember to lead by example. When they see you putting effort into your own health and well being, they’ll be more likely to do the same.
If you’re wondering whether after school tuition will help your child regain confidence and improve achievement, please get in touch with your nearest NumberWorks’nWords centre. We offer a free no-obligation assessment of strengths, weaknesses and knowledge gaps. Your child can also try a free lesson with one of our tutors. We hope the information will be useful whether you choose to continue or not. If you decide to continue, we’ll develop a personalised learning plan and keep you informed of progress. Book your free no-obligation assessment today.
