A Teachable Moment

Dr. Susan's newsletter for parents June, 2009
Dr. Susan's pictureGreetings!

Welcome to the summer. This is my favorite time of year because even when I work late, it's still light when I leave my office--and I don't have to wear a jacket. I love that!
 
The other thing I absolutely love about summer is going to the movies as often as possible. There just seems to be more time for it in the summer...and taking your child to the movies is exactly what this month's Teachable Moment is all about, so read on.
 
Happy reading!
Dr. Susan
moviesA Teachable Moment:
Movie Ratings Matter 
 
Recently I was at a PG-rated movie with my 11-year-old and her friend. Behind us were two moms and a group of 4- to 6-year-olds. I had read reviews, which said the movie was not recommended for children under about 9 due to the "creepy, dark" theme. I mentioned this to these moms. "They'll be fine," was the dismissive reply. 
 
They weren't. They were terrified--whining, asking to leave and disturbing the rest of us.
 
child sleepingDoes more sleep make a child smarter and happier?  
Actually sort of! A recent study found that teens who got more sleep got higher grades in school. The more sleep and the better quality sleep they had, the better they did in school. Another new study found that teens who went to bed earlier (by about 10p.m.) were less likely to be depressed and have suicidal thoughts than those who stayed up much later.
 
If your child is not yet a teen, you still have time to make sure that she or he starts healthy sleep habits now, which are likely to continue into adolescence. This won't happen without your help!
  • Enforce a bedtime that results in at least 9 hours of sleep a night--follow through!
  • Electronics (including TV) should be turned off at least 1/2 an hour before bedtime: they are over-stimulating
  • Eliminate caffeine after about 4p.m.
  • Keep a regular bedtime routine
Invite Dr. Susan to Speak! 
 
If you would like Dr. Susan to speak on any topic to your group or organization, simply send an email to speaking@drsusanbartell.com
In This Issue
A Teachable Moment
Preventing Summer Injury
 
Web Resources
 
Dr. Susan's
NEW Book!!
Dr. Susan's Fit&Fun Family Action Plan
Dr. Susan's
Fit&Fun 
Family Action Plan 
 
 
Dr. Susan's Girls-Only Weight Loss Guide 
 Dr. Susan's
Girls-Only
Weight Loss Guide
Dr. Susan Twitters!
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