May =Testing for Many

For teachers, students, and parents, May is the culmination of the school year. It is time to complete all projects, review for the year has already begun, and end of the year testing is at hand.

Everyone has worked hard all year, so we want our students to be and do their best. There are some things that can help them to do just that. This week I will be sharing some tips to help our children and students do their best while testing.

The first two things I automatically think of are several nights of good rest and eating breakfast. We all behave differently when we are sleepy or tired. Adults usually become sluggish when tired while children tend to overcompensate and speed up. In a study involving 2,463 children aged 6-15, children with sleep problems were more likely to be inattentive, hyperactive, impulsive, and display oppositional behaviors. So do your best to insure that they have a good night of sleep and, if possible, several nights.

Even though breakfast time can be hectic and rushed, it is important to have breakfast. Two rules for breakfast are:

• Never skip it!
• It must include protein!

If you and/or your children not like the typical breakfast food? That is fine. Last night's left over tuna casserole or a peanut butter sandwich will be fine. For other suggestions for breakfast see "Healthy Breakfast Ideas" under Topics.