Fueling Summer Fun

NEW ORLEANS, June 5 — Summer break is finally here.

For many families, that means later bedtimes, more time outdoors, family vacations, summer camps, and plenty of opportunities for fun. But with changing schedules often comes a change in eating habits too.

Without the structure of the school day, it can be easy for children to skip meals, snack more often, or fill up on sugary drinks and convenience foods.

At BCHS, we encourage families to view summer as an opportunity to build healthy habits that can last all year long.

Start with hydration

When temperatures rise, staying hydrated becomes even more important.

Children are often so busy playing, swimming, or participating in summer activities that they may not realize they are thirsty. Even mild dehydration can affect mood, concentration, energy levels, and physical performance.

Water remains one of the best choices for children because it contains no added sugar and helps keep the body functioning properly.

A few simple ways to encourage hydration include:

• Keeping reusable water bottles nearby
• Offering water before outdoor activities
• Serving water-rich foods like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, and oranges
• Limiting sugary drinks whenever possible

Make snacks work for you

Summer often means more snacking, and that is not necessarily a bad thing.

Growing children need fuel throughout the day, especially when they are active. The key is choosing snacks that provide nutrition along with energy.

Consider options such as:

• Fresh fruit
• Yogurt
• Cheese sticks
• Whole grain crackers
• Nuts and seeds (when age appropriate)
• Vegetables with hummus

Healthy snacks can help children stay satisfied between meals while providing important nutrients for growth and development.

Build balanced meals

The CDC recommends offering children a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products as part of a healthy eating pattern.

Summer is actually one of the easiest times to introduce fresh foods because so many fruits and vegetables are in season.

Try letting children:

• Pick a new fruit or vegetable to try each week
• Help prepare meals at home
• Choose healthy options at the grocery store

When children are involved in the process, they are often more willing to try new foods.

Do not forget about movement

Nutrition and physical activity go hand in hand.

The CDC recommends that children and adolescents get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.

Summer offers plenty of opportunities to stay active:

• Swimming
• Bike rides
• Trips to the park
• Outdoor games
• Family walks

Regular movement supports both physical and mental health while helping children build confidence and healthy routines.

Progress over perfection

Summer should be enjoyed.

There is room for snowballs, barbecue cookouts, birthday parties, and special treats. Healthy eating is not about perfection. It is about balance.

Small choices made consistently can help children stay energized, healthy, and ready to make the most of their summer adventures.

BCHS Is Here for Your Family

Whether your child is headed to camp, Vacation Bible School, sports practice, or simply enjoying time at home, healthy nutrition plays an important role in helping them grow, learn, and thrive.

If you have questions about your child's nutrition, growth, or overall health, our Pediatric team is here to help.

To schedule an appointment, call 504.533.4999 or visit our website to learn more about our services.