Summer is undoubtedly the favorite time for all kids. The closed schools, the free afternoons, the holidays, being free and carefree, are some of the reasons why you will hear children wishing for Summer to stay forever.

On the other hand, this summer air of freedom may have a negative impact on our children’s diet and eating habits.

In contrast to the rest of the year, children work out less during summer. At the same time, with the schools being closed, children don’t follow their sleep routine and they go to sleep and wake up in the morning much later than usual. They also tend to spend more time in front of the TV or the computer in Summer.

During Summer, children spend much more time with friends and relatives, eat out more often and sweets and ice creams are everywhere.

For all these reasons, by the end of Summer there are many children who have gained weight and have adopted some unhealthy eating habits. The following tips will help you maintain a balanced diet for your kids and return to your routine in Fall more easily.

Calcium

Make sure you cover your children’s daily needs in calcium, by giving them dairy and other food with calcium. 

Fruits and Vegetables

There is an abundance of fruits and vegetables during Summer.  You can give them to your children with breakfast, as an alternative to sweets and snacks in the afternoon, when you go for a walk or at the beach and you will boost their health and energy levels.

Small and Frequent meals

Usually the heat leaves us with a low appetite and a lack of energy. Small and frequent meals help children to have enough energy without making them feel heavy.

Ice Cream

Ice cream may be summer’s best friend, but you have to have limits. The amount of ice cream children consume should be proportional to their age, and a good rule of thumb is that a child should not eat more than one portion of ice cream a day.

Intake of water and fluids

Hydration is one of the most important aspects of taking care of children, especially during summer. We should make sure that children drink enough water, juice or milk, depending on their age and needs, especially when they are exposed to heat or they are physically active. We avoid carbonated soft drinks and drinks containing sugar.