uw oS Zz = Ss = ust 17, 2023 | 30 2 DOCTOR ADVISES # FAMILIES TO SET © DAILY ROUTINES, i ENCOURAGE HEALTHY 2 DIETS AND MORE With the new school year just around the cor- ner, here are Dr. Bharat Bahl's tips for a safe and healthy return to school: SET A DAILY ROUTINE Set and maintain regu- lar meal and study times, and have a consistent bed- time and wake time to en- sure your child starts each school day rested and ready to learn. It's also im- portant to have a routine for screen time. The Canadian Paedia- Oakvil school-aged children should follow the four Ms: Manage screen use through plans, rules and Pd N DR. BHARAT BAHL Column limits; encourage Mean- ingful screen-use to ensure screen time has positive purpose; be a good screen time role Model; and Mon- itor your child's screen ENCOURAGE A HEALTHY DIET Children who have a healthy breakfast in the morning are able to focus and do better at school. At home or through your child's school nutrition program, start your child's day with a well-balanced breakfast, such as a bowl of whole grain cereal with 9 #12-511 Maple Grove Dr. 905.339.3366 YA EWS sk A {era oer apy Seek ‘Biot Aare lee oh a Sa le insidehalton.com Oakville Place Shopping Centre 905.849.3874 fresh fruit. Avoid sugary drinks, which can contain up to 10 teaspoons of sugar. Water is the best way to stay hy- ated. Provide your child with a nutritious lunch and healthy snacks. TAKE THE TIME TO TALK WITH YOUR CHILD AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE For children, going to school for the first time or starting a new grade can be stressful. On the first day of school and throughout the school year, be present an: supportive by talking with your child and showing in- terest in their classes and activities, and asking about their feelings. These conversations are also a good opportunity to ucating them about bully- ‘ ii ‘Nn i iN hie bil Oakville South 9 #118-1060 Speers Rd. a 905.842.1702 9 HEALTH TIPS FOR BACK T0 SCHOOL CHOOSE THE RIGHT BACKPACI Most students use a backpack to carry school supplies, lunch and other items needed for the school day. Ensure your child uses a well- tted pat io help prevent back inj Look ‘for a padded back. pack with a wide and pad- ded shoulder strap. When fitted properly, the bottom of the backpack should sit at the child's hip. As arefer- ence, the packed weight of the ee should not xceed, cent of the child's weight, ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO BE ACTIVE AND SAFE Being active and kee} ingfitis importantatall. i es. Cycling to school: ouene the autumn and spi months is a great way "for your child to be active and get to school. Children should always (°) Burlington #2-2230 Brant St. 905.631.6789 Metro Creative photo A child's backpack should be well fitted to help prevent back injuries, according to Dr. Bahl. wear a helmet when cy- cling, skateboarding, rid- ing a scooter or rollerblad- ing. Sports and activities are also an excellent way for kids to make friends and use up extra energy. Dr. Bharat ee aD CCFP, CAC, EM, i: emergency physician ‘roith William Osler Health System and the palliative care physician lead at Osler's Etobicoke General Hospital. After complet- ing medical school at the University of Toronto, Dr. Bahl completed emergency medicine training at the University of Ottawa, and palliative care training at McMaster University. Don’t miss out on the sounds that you love. Check your hearing. Your hearing helps you stay connected to those who matter most, enjoy all the sights and sounds around you, and maintain a good quality of life. Get your hearing checked by a licensed hearing care professional at your local Connect Hearing clinic. Book your FREE" hearing test today! 1.888.850.9979 + connecthearing.ca Connect Hearing YOUR HEARING PROFESSIONALS Save up to $2,000 ona pair of Select level hearing aids with your CAA membership!” Cr) pawatts