By Ashley Ferraro
The start of a new year is the perfect time for families to reflect and implement new habits that encourage a healthy, balanced lifestyle. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but a new year can be a critical forcing factor for turning over a new leaf.
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- Spend More Time Outside – Take advantage of our mild winter weather to spend time outdoors, as it’s proven to improve kids’ moods, reduce anxiety, and boost focus. Outdoor play builds confidence through unstructured exploration. It also sparks creativity and promotes physical activity that benefits overall health.You don’t have to go far to find opportunities for outdoor exploration in Parkland. It can be as simple as walking around your neighborhood or visiting Pine Trails Park. Or, for something more adventurous, consider a family trip to one of Florida’s natural springs or a snorkeling excursion in the Keys.
- Prioritize Exercise and Movement – This habit pairs well with spending more time outside, but it can be accomplished indoors year-round if you want to beat the heat during the summer months. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical health, boosting confidence, and improving social skills—especially for kids. Parkland and Coral Springs are home to many youth sports programs that boast longstanding legacies of excellence when it comes to developing youth.For parents, finding time for exercise is just as important, especially if you work a sedentary job. The CDC recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week, such as 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.If a gym membership isn’t realistic, there are countless free at-home workouts available on YouTube. Even everyday activities like gardening, walking the dog, or cleaning can help you get moving and on a path to a healthier lifestyle.
- Lean Into Healthy Eating Habits – Healthy eating starts at home, making it a valuable opportunity for parents to introduce and reinforce good nutrition habits for their children. To ensure healthy meals don’t fall through the cracks during busy weeks, consider preparing meals in advance. If you’re unsure where to begin, turn to social media where there’s an endless supply of easy, family-friendly recipes tailored for prep-ahead meals.Sourcing fresh, local ingredients can also elevate your family’s eating habits. There are several farmer’s markets nearby, including one right here in Parkland at the Equestrian Center. It’s held every other Sunday from 9 am -11 am during the months of December through April. More info can be found at www.cityofparkland.org/329/farmers-market.
- Get Involved in the Community – Volunteering locally is a meaningful way to give back to the community, and research shows it also has significant benefits for mental health. It can boost happiness, build confidence and self-esteem, and foster a sense of purpose—qualities that are valuable for both kids and adults.There are plenty of local opportunities to volunteer as a family, which as a bonus, can strengthen your family bond. If you’re not sure where to start, you can learn more at www.broward.org/volunteer.