I guess that most everyone knows that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But many kids head to school without anything in their tummies.
Why is breakfast so important? Nutrition-wise it provides
- energy to get the body and brain going
- vitamins and minerals for the body’s processes and growth needs
Eating breakfast helps
- kids concentrate and learn in school
- reduces discipline problems
- revs the metabolism
- can even lead to a healthier weight (This works for adults too!)
Kids are less likely to eat breakfast when the parents also don’t eat breakfast – or when they get up at the last minute to dash to school. You CAN make breakfast happen:
- eat with your kids
- pre-set the table the night before to save time in the morning
- be sure there are breakfast foods ready to eat
A healthy breakfast is as simple as 1-2-3:
- 1. Protein – egg, cheese, milk, nuts or nut butter, beans
- 2. Starch (whole-grain bread, cereal, tortilla, rice or pasta)
- 3. Fruits: fresh, frozen or 100% juices.
And breakfast is the perfect time to connect with your kids about what they have going on today at school.
Nontraditional breakfast ideas:
- last night’s leftovers (chili, spaghetti, meatloaf and mashed potatoes)
- tortilla filled with meat, cheese and/or beans
- hearty soup
- sandwiches like grilled cheese or egg salad
