Nurture After School
Food
Kids' brains need an extra boost of nutrients after a hard day at school. Their day is often mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausting for them. High protein will help to replenish their energy levels and get their brains and tummies geared up to work on homework, chores, or restitutions.
I like to combine one of these protein options with a piece of fruit for a good, healthy snack:
- Cheese
- Peanut butter
- Beef jerky
- Trail mix
- Energy bites
- High-protein granola or energy bars
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Hard boiled eggs
- Smoothies (blend yogurt, fruit (fresh or frozen), & a squirt of honey; if it's too thick add ice if it's a hot day, and milk if you don't want it quite so cold)
Avoid candy, desserts, lots of carbs, and chocolate for snacks. These will give your child a temporary fill and a sugar high without provide the nutrients their brains and bodies need.
Connection
Use this time to reconnect with your child after they've been away from you all day. Re-establish connection and fill them up. Play a quick game of I Spy, We're Going Camping, or discuss what you would plant in a garden if you had unlimited room while they munch.
Be mindful that they've had a stressful day - they had to think about school work, try and control dozens of people, and worry about being safe (emotionally & sometimes physically), and are not going to be too open to a lot of mushy loving. Keep it chill and brief, with a couple hugs, loving eye contact, and some silliness.
Try to avoid asking what they did at school; this can lead to all kinds of hassles: lies about the day, anger, etc. Ask how their day was and empathize or celebrate with whatever they say. Don't try to change their feelings about it!
