The New Year is just around the corner! As this current year ends, reflecting and setting goals for the next one is important. Setting healthy New Year’s resolutions for your whole family can be a great way of staying consistent, because you can encourage each other to reach your objectives and achieve them together. So with that in mind, here is a list of ways to get healthier in the new year, for you and your whole family!
Eating healthier
A better diet can work wonders for leading a healthier lifestyle—it can improve your mood and sleep and be a game changer for your mental health. One of the biggest deterrents from eating healthier is not wanting to give up our favorite dishes and snacks, but who says you have to? There are healthier alternatives to just about all your favorite foods that taste just as great! Whether it’s switching to natural sugar alternatives, veggie-based replacements, or leaner meats for dinner, healthier diets serve as great New Year resolutions for kids and adults alike — just remember to stay hydrated too!
Exercising together
Regular exercise is a great source of physical health benefits, confidence, and community! An excellent New Year’s goal for couples and families, exercising together is a perfect way to encourage one another and stay motivated — not to mention the benefits of improved mental health. Whether you and your family join a gym or fitness studio together or pick up a sport to play together, staying active with a loved one is a great way to stay dedicated to your long term fitness goals.
Getting proper sleep
It’s very easy to lose track of time and start having a messy sleep schedule, especially with work, school, or other commitments coming into the picture. However, it is recommended that adults get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep a night, and teenagers get at least 8 hours. Setting goals with your family to prioritize getting enough sleep consistently can improve mood, appetite, and overall mental health — resulting in a happier household! Consider setting more strict times to get work done and committing to leaving enough time for a good night’s sleep.
Reduce screen time
The holidays can be a time of overuse of devices, especially with kids testing out their new phones, laptops or video games. Especially considering they’re still home from school for the holiday break. However, it’s important to make sure the screens are used in moderation. The whole family needs to know when it’s time to connect with no devices present. For example, consider ruling out devices during dinner, and creating opportunities to connect, like a board game night! Setting “screen-free” hours is not only beneficial for strengthening family relationships but maintaining and further developing social skills needed in life.
Volunteer together
Volunteering as a family is one of the best ways to start the new year. Between animal shelters, nursing homes, and toy or food drives, banding together to do your part in supporting those in need is great in so many ways. You can share a common and positively enforced goal, connect, and of course— it makes a difference. Developing a love of helping others through organizations also opens doors for your kids and teenagers, giving them not only opportunities to develop connections with others but also impress colleges by the time it’s time to start applying!
Staying healthy as a family is one of the most important things you can do for your children, and we’re here for it! At Ocean Pediatrics, our passionate team of caregivers and medical professionals is available to answer all your family’s health-related needs. So if you need an appointment? No problem! Set up a visit with us today so you and your family will be ready to take on 2025 together!
