Summer's just around the corner here in Australia, and with it comes longer days, scorching sun, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures! But staying healthy in the Aussie heat can be a challenge, especially with little ones in tow. So, how do we keep the whole family feeling crackerjack all season long? Here are some fun and easy tips to turn your crew into a bunch of healthy adventurers:
Sun Smarties:
Slip, Slop, Slap: It's a classic for a reason! Sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing are essential for everyone, especially during peak sun hours (10am-4pm).
Sunburnt? Aloe vera gel and cool compresses can help soothe the ouch factor. Teach your kids the importance of sun safety and let them pick out their own fun hats and sunnies.
Hydration Heroes:
H2-Awesome! Aussie summers are thirsty work. Invest in reusable water bottles for the whole family and make staying hydrated a fun competition. Keep a jug of water flavoured with sliced fruit in the fridge for a refreshing pick-me-up.
Beat the Heat: Pack a small spray bottle with cool water for a quick and refreshing spritz on hot days, especially during outdoor activities.
Fueling for Fun:
Pack a Punch: Ditch the processed snacks and pack healthy alternatives like chopped veggies, fruits, and wholegrain crackers. Get creative! Make fun kabobs with fruit and cheese or whip up some homemade trail mix.
Beat the Heat with Lunch: Opt for light and refreshing lunches like salads, wraps with lean protein, or chilled yoghurt with fruit.
Hydrating Snacks: Watermelon, cucumber, and grapes are all great options for keeping everyone hydrated and cool.
Move It, Move It!
Beat the Sun: Schedule outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or evenings.
Get Active Together: Make exercise a family affair! Go for bike rides, take walks on the beach, or have a backyard dance party. There are endless ways to have fun and get active as a family.
Water Fun: Beat the heat with a trip to the pool, beach, or even just a backyard sprinkler session. Just remember sun safety applies even with water activities!
Bonus Tip: Sleep Tight!
Getting enough sleep is crucial for everyone's health and well-being. Establish a regular sleep schedule for the whole family, even during the long summer days.
Making Healthy Habits Fun:
Get the Kids Involved: Let your kids help pack healthy snacks, choose fun water bottles, or pick out their sun-safe gear.
Make it a Game: Turn staying hydrated into a competition! See who can drink the most water throughout the day, or have a family dance party to stay active.
Celebrate Successes: Acknowledge your family's healthy choices and make a big deal of their efforts.
Remember:
The key is to make healthy habits fun and sustainable. By incorporating these simple tips into your family's routine, you'll be well on your way to staying healthy and having a ripper summer season!
