HEALTHY
GO OUTSIDE
Although you are practicing social distancing, getting out for a walk or a bike ride around the neighbourhood does wonders for your mental & physical health. Not allowed to leave the house? Sitting out in your yard or on your balcony and soaking up the sunshine can be a great mood booster as well.
EAT WELL
Being home all day puts many of us a lot closer to the fridge and pantry than we normally would be. Resist the temptation to snack all day by trying these delicious, healthy recipes.
- Glory Bowls & Roasted Nourish Bowls are weeknight staples in our house. Add a BBQ chicken breast if you prefer some meat with your meal.
- These Egg Muffins are quick, easy and customizable. Great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Easy for kids to make too!
- With more time at home, you just might have time to throw together this No Knead Bread. Bonus? Your workplace will smell fantastic!
- Have your kids bake these yummy, healthy muffins in their favourite flavour.
- Get the kids in on making meals with these kid-friendly recipes.
- Access illustrated recipes for kids 2-12 here.
DISCOVER ONLINE FITNESS CLASSES
Many gyms & yoga studios have moved their offerings for adults online. But what about kids?
- Cosmic Kids Yoga is one of our absolute favourites for younger kids. Yoga poses combined with fun adventures & stories.
- Sworkit Kids provides easy to follow workouts just for kids. You can even customize your own.
- Go Noodle is used for brain breaks at many schools and the kids love it. They've created an at home version with recommended off-screen activities too.
PRACTICE MINDFULNESS
- Mind Yeti, Ninja Focus & Mindful Powers are all apps that guide kids through mindfulness practices using cute characters and stories.
- For teens, check out Mindfulness For Teens. A resource rich website designed just for them.
- Help your kids create a Gratitude Journal. Have them decorate the outside of the journal with things they love, then make a Heart Map on the first page. For extra fun, try this tip from my 10- year old - choose a small, tasty treat (she uses jelly beans) and savour one slowly while you think of all of the things you are grateful for today. Then choose one and record it in your journal.
SLEEP WELL
- Limit screen time before bed. Experts say all devices (including TV) should be off 2 hours before bedtime.
- Establish a bedtime routine, even for the older kids. Family reading time for 30mins before bed is a great way to spend time together, settle down and model lifelong literacy habits. See Read Aloud Revival for tips, tricks and great book recommendations!
- Maintain consistent sleep and wake times. Not sure how much sleep you and your kids should be getting? Try this sleep calculator to let you know when to go to bed and when to get up so you feel refreshed and ready to tackle the day.