Do your teens practice healthy habits? The teenage years can be a rollercoaster, packed with new experiences, academic pressures, and hormonal changes. However, this period also provides a unique opportunity for parents to guide their children towards positive lifestyle choices. Mbali Mapholi, the partner dietitian at Laager Rooibos, offers invaluable insights into nurturing these habits.
Embrace Achievable Goals
One of the most effective strategies for helping teens cultivate healthy habits is to focus on realistic and attainable goals. Mapholi emphasises the importance of progress over perfection. Instead of daunting resolutions, collaborate with your teen on actionable targets, such as:
- Staying Hydrated: Encourage them to drink a glass of water or enjoy a cup of homemade Laager Rooibos iced tea with each meal.
- Limiting Screen Time: Aim for a device-free period of at least one to two hours before bed.
- Regular Stretching: Incorporate short stretching sessions of five to 15 minutes during study or screen time.
Model the Behaviour You Want to See
Parents play a critical role in shaping their teens’ habits, primarily through their own examples. Mapholi points out that teens are more likely to adopt healthy habits when they see them in action. To be an effective role model, consider:
- Preparing Meals Together: Make cooking a family activity. Invite your teen to contribute by picking out vegetables or protein options for dinner.
- Engaging in Joint Activities: Participate in fun physical activities, whether it’s hiking, playing sports, or engaging in a family workout.
- Practising Mindfulness: Demonstrate stress management techniques such as journaling or meditative practices to help them stay grounded.
Foster a Healthy Home Environment
Creating a supportive home atmosphere is essential for encouraging positive eating habits. Stock your kitchen with nutritious snacks that appeal to teenagers, including:
- Fresh fruits
- Nuts
- Whole-grain crackers
- Low-sugar health bars
- Frozen fruits for smoothies
Keep mealtimes casual and inclusive, focusing on positive conversations about nutrition. A warm atmosphere during dinner can transform it from a potential battleground into a cherished family time.
Promote Restful Sleep
Sleep is crucial for your teen’s physical and mental health, yet it’s often compromised by homework and late-night gaming. Help them establish a healthy bedtime routine by:
- Encouraging screen-free time for at least one to two hours before sleep.
- Introducing calming pre-sleep activities such as reading or enjoying a soothing cup of Laager Rooibos tea.
- Setting a consistent bedtime, even on weekends, to reinforce a stable sleep pattern.
Make Physical Activity Enjoyable
Encouraging teens to participate in physical activities they genuinely enjoy can foster a lifelong appreciation for movement. Whether it’s football, swimming, or dancing, help them discover what brings them joy. Shifting the focus from fitness or weight goals to the sheer pleasure of movement can significantly enhance their engagement.
Celebrate Achievements, Big and Small
Positive reinforcement is key for teens. Celebrate their successes, no matter how minor they may seem. Whether they’ve adhered to their hydration goals for a week or enjoyed trying a new sport, acknowledging their efforts boosts their confidence. Instead of food-based rewards, consider alternative celebrations, such as a fun outing or a healthy meal shared together.
Maintain Open Communication
Encouraging autonomy is critical during the teenage years. Foster an environment where your teen feels comfortable discussing their goals and challenges. Regular check-ins can help you understand their perspective, so ask open-ended questions like:
- “What’s been working well for you lately?”
- “Is there something you’d like to try differently?”
- “How can I support you in your journey?”
As Candice Sessions, Marketing Manager at Laager, notes, “The teenage stage can be daunting, but it’s a pivotal time for building trust and establishing lifelong habits.” Incorporating Laager Rooibos into your teen’s routine can be a simple yet effective way to support their health. With its numerous benefits, from improved heart health to antioxidant properties, it’s a refreshing choice that can be enjoyed hot or as a delicious iced tea.
Explore more about Laager Rooibos and discover a wealth of healthy recipes and advice at Joekels Tea’s official site or follow them on social media @laagerrooibostea on Facebook and Instagram.
By taking small, intentional steps, parents can significantly impact their teens’ health and well-being, setting them up for a balanced and vibrant future.
