Cooperative Living July 2024 - 20

HEALTHY TAKE
Keeping
Kids
Energized
Three tips for fueling
summer adventures
story courtesy Family Features
S
ummer is the time to get outside
and remember the importance
of outdoor activities that can
be enjoyed as a family. Encouraging
children at an early age to participate
in outdoor exploration can help foster
lifelong skills.
For example, research recently
published in the " International Journal
of Environmental Research and Public
Health " found associations between
nature exposure and improved cognitive
function, brain activity, blood pressure,
mental health, physical activity and
sleep. What's more, kids who play
outside and take part in outdoor
adventures more adeptly learn skills
like problem-solving, according to the
American Academy of Pediatricians.
However, for many families with
little ones, this summer might be their
fi rst foray into activities like exploring
playgrounds or enjoying backyard
campouts.
Opportunities to be more active
outdoors bring apparent benefi ts. With
that in mind, it's essential that families
embark on these activities with the
proper fuel.
All the energy kids burn playing
outdoors and taking on new adventures
can work up an appetite, making it an
opportune time to introduce new foods.
It might even be a little one's fi rst time
trying seasonal fruits and veggies that
can help nourish family playtime.
" A healthy curiosity and freedom
to explore are essential ingredients for
successful adventures, but fueling all of
that fun is equally important, " says Sarah
Smith-Simpson, Ph.D., principal food
scientist at Gerber. " Kids need wellbalanced
nutrition from various sources
to fuel their summertime play. "
Ensure your family is ready to
make memories and enjoy the exciting
adventures ahead with these tips from
Smith-Simpson:
Get Colorful with Fruits and Veggies
Serving a rainbow of colors with
an assortment of fruits and veggies
means nutrient-rich snacks that are
equally fl avorful and fun. One of the
best parts about fruits is that they're
easily transportable for warm days
exploring a nearby park. Th ey're perfect
for a quick snack on the go - just cut
them according to your child's age and
developmental stage to avoid hazards
like choking, and then pack them in a
small cooler to keep them from spoiling.
Pack Plenty and a Variety of Snacks
It's the time of year when infants
and young children need extra fuel for
playtime, making it essential for parents
to off er a variety of nutritious foods
and fl avors. A crucial part of inspiring
exploration in young children begins
with nutrient-rich snacks that help fuel
their adventures. Introducing diverse
foods can help expand palates and
provide a wide range of nutrients to
support the entire family.
Hydrate on the Go
Avoid dehydration by ensuring
you're bringing enough water for the
entire family on all your summertime
trips, whether they're around the block
or across the country. Use refi llable
bottles for mom and dad, and for little
ones, be sure to pack non-spill sippy
cups for toddlers that help avoid messes.
Fill a larger container with clean water
from home, which you can use to refi ll
everyone's cups, bottles and canteens to
stay hydrated throughout the day.
*
18 * Cooperative Living * July 2024
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Cooperative Living July 2024

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