5 Ways To Keep Your Kids Healthy This School Year

After a year of virtual learning, school is finally in session! The long-awaited day has come where children are able to return to the classroom, which is exciting for both parents and kids alike. The little ones have been looking forward to being able to reconnect with their friends while parents are relieved that their children can continue to learn and grow in a conducive environment, away from the distractions at home. 

However, just like any other year, the back-to-school season comes with one thing that no one is excited about - germs. Even before we were facing a worldwide pandemic, returning to school in the fall meant that our children were going to be exposed to a whole new wave of germs. And this year isn’t any different. 

Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to help keep your kids safe and healthy as they head back to school. Let’s take a look at a few. 

1. Discuss the Importance of Hygiene 

One of the best ways to keep your kids healthy throughout the school year is to make sure they understand the importance of personal hygiene and are working toward building healthy hygiene habits. So sit down and have a conversation with your children about things like frequent hand washing, not sharing food or drinks, and not touching their face. Of course, explaining things to children isn’t always enough, so go a step further and practice these healthy habits together as often as you can. That way, once your child is back in the classroom they won’t have to think twice about washing their hands before lunch or not sharing their juice box with a friend. 

2. Decrease Stress by Sticking to a Routine

You already know that children can experience many benefits from having regular routines. But did you know that sticking to a routine can help keep your kids physically healthy too? It’s true. Daily routines mean predictability, and when kids can predict what is going to happen, it reduces their stress and anxiety. Not only is this good for their mental health, but since stress can impact the immune system, it’s also a good thing for their physical health. So look at the parts of your child’s day that may benefit from a routine. This could include things like getting a snack before they do their homework or reading a book together before going to bed. 

3. Nourish Their Body with Whole Foods 

Our bodies need a variety of nutrients in order for all of the systems, including the immune system, to function optimally. That’s one of the many reasons why including plenty of healthy whole foods in your child’s diet is so important. Start incorporating more whole foods into each meal and keep plenty of healthy foods, like fruits, nuts, and vegetables, around for the whole family to snack on. 

4. Don’t Forget About Gut Health 

Did you know that 70% of your immune system is located in your gut? It’s true. That’s why helping your kids take care of their gut health will also help keep their immune systems strong. How can you do this? A great place to start is with a daily probiotic, which helps to seed the gut with good bacteria that support a strong and healthy gut microbiome. 

5. Find Natural Ways to Boost their Immune System 

Speaking of the immune system, there’s no doubt that our immune systems are often put to the test when our children head back to school every year. Make sure your child’s immune system is up to the challenge this year by finding natural ways to give it a boost. On top of the tips already mentioned, things like getting enough sleep, engaging in regular exercise, staying hydrated, and limiting added sugars can all help make sure your family’s immune systems are as strong and healthy as possible. 

For additional protection, consider adding immune-supporting supplements to your family’s routine. There are a number of options on the market, but keep in mind that not all supplements are created equal. Look for high-quality supplements that use natural ingredients, like medicinal mushrooms, that have been proven to support immune function. 

Defend Your Family’s Immune Systems

In the whirlwind that comes with the beginning of the school year, the last thing you want is a child who doesn’t feel well. Defend is here to help. This powerful blend combines the most extensively researched medicinal mushrooms with beta-glucan extracts and organic Wild Microalgae™ to help maximize your body’s immune response.*

What’s more? The all-natural capsules can easily be split apart and added to any drink or smoothie, making them easy to give to children of all ages.** 

The best part is that you can put it to the test risk-free with our 60-day money-back guarantee. 

**Consult with your child’s pediatrician prior to starting a new nutritional supplement.