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As your child matures and grows more independent, it’s natural that they begin to make some of their own lifestyle choices. What do we mean by lifestyle choices? Usually it’s things like this –
- What time do they go to sleep?
- How much time do they spend online?
- What sort of snacks do they eat?
- Who are they mixing with?
Once a child hits secondary school age, it’s difficult to completely stay abreast of all of their lifestyle choices. Children of 13 and up tend to spend more time away from their homes and without supervision. They may also have their own pocket money and the freedom to spend it as they choose. These are all lifestyle choices and helping your child to make good choices is a vital part of equipping them to get on well in life.
If your child is making positive choices, then you’ll probably have no concerns. However, if you are worried your child is not getting enough sleep, eating or drinking sugar-laden snacks and fizzy drinks, or hanging around with other children who might not be the best company, then your child’s lifestyle choices are already having a negative effect on their education.
The bad choices and keeping communication open
Diet is a big one. Many children enjoy junk food and fizzy or caffeine-laden energy drinks. No matter how carefully you educate them, they might decide to indulge in these things anyway – especially if you’re not there to see! Keep talking to them about the effects which these foods and drinks can have on their bodies and consequently their minds. Let them know that you can help them make better choices.
Another big issue is sleep! Spending hours on a phone at night, either chatting to friends or surfing the internet is bad for their sleep pattern. You can put a parental control on their device to shut the internet access down at your chosen time. This can be a good way to stay in control.
The best way to influence your child is to keep communication lines open. As this independent school in Hampshire says, communication is at the heart of a child’s happiness. Make sure they know that they can talk to you without fear of judgement or shouting. A child who feels they have to hide things will turn to the wrong influences for support. You will always be your child’s best advocate.
