The way Jeannie Klimek figures it, she’s raised three daughters and is now influencing the upbringing of her five-year-old granddaughter. And that’s why her top 10 wellness tips for the beginning of school remain so important to her.

In fact, this resident of Lowry, Minn., wins a Cuisipro Donvier Electronic Yogurt Maker, an innovative kitchen tool that makes up to six cups of great-tasting homemade yogurt at a time, at a time, in Nubella’s Back to School contest.

“I realize the importance of a well-balanced, well-nourished mind and body for a future that holds good health in the top ranks of living a full, fruitful long life,” Jeannie says.

Actually, she needed 11 tips to spell out Back to School:

B: Breakfast is the application of good nutrition as the basis of starting the school day out right. 
A: Always offer more than one healthy choice in the morning, such as an egg one day, a glass of orange juice, or a piece of fruit another day.
C: Cold weather means take a few extra minutes to cook up some hot cereal.
K: Keep the children’s favorite, healthy snacks on hand at all times—cheese, grapes, yogurt, granola, nuts, just to name a few.

T: Take time to find out what foods your child really likes and will eat. Take them along to make some healthy choices of their own when buying groceries even if it does take a little longer. You'd be surprised how much fun this really can be.
O: Only buy enough fresh fruits and veggies that will stay fresh until they are all consumed before the next shopping trip. 

S: Schedule playtime with your child. Don't just send them out to play. A little fun in the sun, or snow, won't hurt either of you and the fresh air will make all things go a little smoother. 
C: This is one of the basic vitamins we all need. Remember to give your child a supplemental vitamin.
H: Hook up with other families with children that attend school with your children. Having such activities as hayrides and bonfires—and you can't do without s'mores—if you live in the country is fun for kids and adults. If you don't live out in the country, arrange for some mini-golfing or go-carting. 
O: Organize clothes, snacks, papers, money, etc., the night before school. You won't experience that early morning panic the next day. 
O:  Open the lines to good communication with your kids.
L:  Love them, forever and always and let them know that you do. 

“Even though this are 11 tips, the last is the most important,” Jeannie says. “Don't ever leave home without it!”

Want more? Here are tips from two runners-up:

•  Denise Signorelli, Las Vegas

•  Lisa Mattox, Taneyville, Missouri

Nubella News, a division of Marketing Technology Solutions, Inc., offers content intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We encourage our readers to seek prompt medical care for health issues and consult their physicians before starting a new diet, fitness regimen, or medical treatment.