Page 23 - Kyalami Issue 1 2025

Kyalami Estates Corporate Brand Bible Design 26
3.0 Folder (Inner)
HEALTH

HELP YOUR TEENS The teenage years can be challenging as young
people navigate new experiences, an increased

BUILD HEALTHY work load and hormonal changes in a short
space of time. They are also impressionable
and can pick up bad habits as well as good

ones, if given the right guidance.

he start of a new year brings inclusive, and rather than lecturing,
fresh opportunities and is the focus on positive messaging that
perfect time for teens to adopt highlights the benefits of eating foods
Thealthy habits. Parents play that can fuel their energy and make
a crucial role in guiding them towards them feel good. Dinner time should be
routines that not only improve their a space for connection, not conflict. If
well-being now, but also set the stage conversations become tense, consider
for a healthy future. Here’s how you setting aside a different time for sharing
can help your teen build healthy habits one on one.
that are achievable, sustainable and
empowering. Encourage restful sleep
Sleep is essential for a teen’s physical
Start with achievable goals and mental health, yet can often be
Teens thrive when they feel a sense of overlooked when school demands or
control and accomplishment. They need late night gaming keep them awake.
to understand it’s about progress, not Help them develop a consistent bedtime
perfection. Rather than overwhelming routine by encouraging screen-free
them with big, abstract resolutions, time before going to bed, suggesting
work with them to set realistic goals calm pre-bed activities like reading, and
which could include healthy hydration, setting a regular bedtime and wake-up
limiting screen time, stepping away from schedule.
devices two hours before bedtime, and
stretching every hour if using screens or Make physical activity fun
studying. The key to physical activity is helping
your teen find a movement type that they
Be a role model enjoy and that makes them feel good,
Your habits set the tone for your relieve stress and build confidence.
household and teens learn far more These can include soccer, skate
from what they see than from what boarding, swimming, dancing, hiking
they’re told. If you want them to limit or anything that focuses on the joy of
screen time before bed and you’re glued movement rather than fitness or weight
to your phone, they may push back. goals.
Show them what healthy living looks like
by: Celebrate their wins
*preparing balanced meals and Teens thrive on positive reinforcement
involving them. Ask for their opinion on so celebrate their progress, no matter
which protein to include for dinner – this how small. Acknowledge their effort and
will make them feel more invested; let them know you’re proud. Celebrate
with a fun, healthy meal or a shared
*participating in activities they also experience such as a movie night.
enjoy such as a hike or sports;
Keep conversation open
*practising stress management Teens value autonomy, so empower
techniques such as mindfulness, them to take ownership of their habits
journaling or prayer, to stay present and while offering the guidance and support
calm.
they need. Check in regularly to see how
Create a healthy home they’re feeling about their goals, and ask
environment open-ended questions such as “what’s
Your home environment plays a huge been working for you so far” or “is there
role in shaping healthy habits, so stock something you’d like to adjust or try
your kitchen with nutritious snacks such next?”
as nuts, fresh fruit, whole grain crackers,
low sugar health bars, popcorn and The teen stage is one that many parents
yoghurt. dread, but it is a crucial stage for them
to build trust and habits that set them
Try to make meal times relaxed and up for a healthy start to adulthood.

ISSUED ON BEHALF OF JOEKALS BY OLIVIA
JONES COMMUNICATIONS.
PHOTOS SUPPLIED BY LAAGER ROOIBOS.

DPL issue 9 2022 13 21
Kyalami Estates • CONNECT • Issue 1 • 2025