When School’s Out for Summer, Don’t Let Kids’ Healthy Eating Habits Take a Break

With school almost out and the lazy, hazy days of summer here, our kids are eager for freedom to begin. Ah, those good ol’ days of fun: sleeping late, cool summer treats and being homework free. But with no routines and hot summer days, the novelty of freedom soon turns to boredom and leaves our kids with the ultimate question of, “what can we do now?”

Some kids may think they are hungry and head straight to the fridge or wait for the ice cream man to do his daily rounds. That’s when the vicious cycle of poor eating habits begins with regular ice cream stops, hot dogs at the ballpark and cotton candy at the fair.

So as our kids kick back this summer, think of what you can do to keep your child active and his or her eating up to par. Sure it’s hotter than heck and all our kids want to do is lounge. But find ways to keep them active. Play games in the pool, take a bike ride, have an evening of hide and seek, or a day of Wii in the AC.

Sweets are part of the summer fun, but make it a special affair – a cool summer treat to have once a week. In turn, have healthy snacks on hand that give kids the nutrients they need, such as creamy non-fat yogurt, fresh summer fruit, trail mix, or garden veggies and a low fat dip.

Make breakfast a routine. Always have healthy options like whole-grain cereal, oatmeal pancakes, fruit smoothies or their choice of eggs. Try to include protein at each meal – it will help fill them up and keep their energy levels soaring.

Take a break from fast food and see how easy grilling can be. Make eating a family affair by insisting on eating home-prepared dinners together. You can even get the kids involved by giving them something to do and making it a little easier on you.

As the days heat up, have plenty of cold water or low-calorie beverages around. For a twist on water add your favorite fruit, such as strawberry or kiwi, ice and voila! Be careful with juices and sport drinks, which are filled with sugar and empty calories that go straight to the waist.

Whatever you do this summer, enjoy the time with the kids and remember that you are the best role model that can shape your kids!

--Beth St.Louis, MS, RD, LDN
Program Dietitian
Martin Memorial Center for Health and Healing