I don’t know about you, but I’m having a hard time going to bed earlier now that the September activities fill my calendar. I need to be well-rested and energetic by 8:00 oclock.

What about our kids and grandkids, the ones still in school, and the ones at college? It’s a shock to our systems–no matter what age–to say goodbye to summer and get into a more regimented schedule.

We’ve probably been eating a few more burgers and hot dogs than normal. Maybe we’ve eaten chips and watermelon and called it lunch.

Most of my readers aren’t directly responsible for the health and well-being of school-aged youth. But in case you have some influence in this department (or could use a reminder yourself), this newsletter offers some guidance for ways to thrive as the days grow shorter and colder.

Back-to-school nutrition that helps kids thrive

A successful school year starts with more than new backpacks and school supplies… it begins with good nutrition. The foods children eat each day help fuel growing bodies, support healthy brain development, strengthen immunity, and provide the steady energy they need to learn and stay active.

Instead of relying on sugary snacks, pack lunches with smarter choices. Shaklee Snack Bars provide 9–10 grams of protein, are low glycemic, and contain no artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners, helping keep kids satisfied between meals.

My grandkids grew up on CarboCrunch bars and miss them. One of them found a picture online and texted it to the amusement and nostalgia of the now-twenty-somethings.

I love the Snack Bars and keep one in my purse at all times, just in case I get hungry and need a healthy snack.

For a nutritious lunch or after-school snack, Meal Shakes supply high-quality protein, fiber, calcium, and 19 essential vitamins and minerals… making them a healthier alternative to sugar-filled soft drinks.

At least one of my grandkids still drinks the chocolate meal shake. Others are into heavy-duty sports, like other Shaklee protein offerings.

If you click on the protein page at my shopping website, you’ll be stunned at the variety of energy-providing protein offerings, including a sparkling drink with 40 gms. of protein! Personally, I drink a plant-based protein shake twice a day.

Round out your child’s nutrition with ShakleeKids™ Incredivites®, a chewable multivitamin containing 23 essential vitamins and minerals to support healthy growth, strong bones, and everyday wellness.

I have adult customers who prefer chewing their multi. This is a good way to get the job done if you don’t like swallowing pills.

ShakleeKids Super Immunity gummies provide vitamins C and D, zinc, and elderberry antioxidants to help support a healthy immune system. And Omega-3 Gellys™ deliver highly absorbable DHA and EPA to support healthy brain, eye, heart, immune, and joint health.

These Gellys are interesting. I ordered some just to see how they tasted. Again, if you are a person who doesn’t like taking pills, the Gellys are tasty. We all need omega fatty acids, no matter how old or young we are.

Healthy habits today can help children stay energized, focused, and ready to succeed all year long. For the young at heart, we can say the same thing.

Build a better school days “First Aid” Kit

Every family needs a first aid kit… but the smartest ones also help keep kids healthy every day. Stock yours with all of the above mentioned products.

If colds are running through the crowd on the school bus, have Chewable Vita-C at the ready. Put a few drops of Basic-G+ in a spray bottle to help reduce germs around the home; use Shield Sheer Mineral Body Sunscreen SPF 30 for sun protection; and for all the skinned knees, bumps and scrapes, get out the soothing Herbal Blend® Multi-Purpose Cream. I use this for my callused feet. Wonderful for dry skin.

If you like this newsletter and know someone who would benefit from it, please pass it on. And thanks for reading.

Be well, Do well, and Keep moving, Betsy