A new school year means a new routine. From after-class snacks to homework and electronics, setting guidelines and scheduling will help your children form habits that keep the household running smoothly. Here are six tips for successful after-school strategies.

• Set a schedule – Talk with children about a regular timeline from when they get home to when they should get ready for bed. Some students are eager to tackle homework immediately; others want a break in the action before getting down to business.
• Head off hunger — Keep a “snack rack” in the fridge filled with low-fat yogurt, low-fat string cheese, hummus, pre-sliced veggies and fruit. Put healthy foods at their eye level.
• Preserve play time – Encourage kids to get up and move for at least 30 minutes. Choose a time that’s not too late in the evening to let them shake off stress and boost blood and oxygen levels needed to concentrate on homework or chores.
• Keep it in the family – Consider bike-riding, jumping rope or walking through the neighborhood as part of activities everyone in the house can enjoy together throughout the week.
• Share the meal-planning – Bond in the kitchen with your kids while packing healthy lunches or preparing healthy snacks for the week. Kids are more likely to eat foods they choose and make. ,
• Ditch digital devices – It’s wise to limit screen time on cell phones and tablets during school nights. Experts recommend you set an ‘electronic curfew’ at least one hour before bedtime to promote better sleep.

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