How Do My Child's Lifestyle Choices Affect their Education?

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As convincing as they may be, when it comes to bedtime and treats, it’s important that you lay down the law. The lifestyle choices that your child makes can affect their mood and the health of their body and mind. Notice when we lack a good night’s sleep, our bodies are worse for wear, and we struggle to find the energy to go about our day. Children are just the same, except they’re at school and in an important stage in their learning and development. Here are some more ways as to how lifestyle factors can affect children in their education according to a boarding school in Ireland.

Diet

What we eat fuels us for the rest of the day so the quality of it is really important. Filling up on junk food like crisps, sweets, energy drinks and chocolate is all a massive no-no. While they’re delicious and delectable, they create an energy “crash”.

Initially, you will feel great and have lots of energy after consuming the foods but shortly following, you will experience a sudden drop in energy that can be described as a “crash”. This can make children feel tired, lethargic, and unmotivated to do any work.

An alternative to these yummy foods is fruit which gives you the same sugar satisfaction whilst keeping you healthy and energised for a sustained period of time. Bananas in particular provide slow-releasing energy.

Sleep

Going back to sleep, did you know that it can inhibit the brain’s ability to concentrate? Now, combine that with a distractible child, it’s the recipe for a disaster. Children should get around 7 hours of sleep per night according to health care professionals, however, this varies depending on age. Just by making a few adjustments, you can create a routine which sets your child up for success.

Screen Time

Another one that we shouldn’t forget is screen time. Children of this generation have been born into the world of tablets and smartphones, where everything is at the touch of a button. Screens can be dangerous for children as prolonged periods of time can affect their eyesight and actually thin the prefrontal cortex of the brain (the part responsible for problem-solving).

If you’re concerned about your child’s screen time, we advise that you consider app restrictions. You can essentially block your child from spending any more time on the gadgets by setting limits.