Best Back to School Breakfasts
by Rebecca Scritchfield, MA, RDN, LD, ACSM HFS RebeccaScritchfield.com
Now that the kids are back at school, it is more important than ever to make sure they start their day off with a healthy breakfast. While it’s been proven that kids who eat breakfast perform better in school, make sure you give your children the extra advantage by feeding them a nutritious meal. This will give them the right start to their day, and help them to stay energized and focused all day long.
In my latest segment on Fox 5 DC, I discussed several healthy breakfast ideas that are quick and easy to make. These recipes are the perfect ‘brain food’ to give your child an extra boost in the classroom.
Try these 5 breakfasts out on your children. I guarantee they’ll pass the test … both yours and your kids!
Yogurt + Oatmeal = ‘Yo’atmeal:
“It's been proven that kids who eat breakfast perform better in school, make sure you give your children the extra advantage by feeding them a nutritious meal.”
Combine plain, rolled oats with yogurt for this easy creation. The yogurt will provide your child with much needed calcium. Add a variety of fresh fruit for natural sugar. The liquid from the yogurt will soften the oats, perfectly blending the mixture together. The best part about this breakfast? No cook time! Your kids will be fed and out the door in no time!
A Protein Packed Breakfast – Eggs:
Eggs are a great way to pack in the protein before the school day even begins. Not only will the protein keep your children full for longer, but eggs are also a great source of Vitamin D and choline. Eggs also serve as a vehicle to incorporate vegetables into breakfast. Toss in whatever mixture of vegetables your child wants! This is a filling, affordable breakfast. You can throw it together quickly before school or prepare it the night before and then reheat it in the microwave. Be sure to use the whole egg … both the egg white and the yolk have added benefits!
Great Alternative to Sugary Cereal – Homemade Muesli:
This mixture is simple to throw together and provides enough energy to last the entire morning. Use hearty, whole grain cereal as the base for this breakfast. Add dried fruit, nuts and even coconut to the mixture. Include a splash of milk or combine with yogurt just before serving. Experiment with your milk by trying such alternatives as soy, coconut, or almond milk. This breakfast is a nutritious alternative to sugary cereal.
Great On the Go Breakfast – Kefir:
Kefir is a drinkable yogurt that is particularly popular abroad. This is a great on the go breakfast to put into a cup for kids to bring with them on the bus when they’re running late. The drink is filled with probiotics, a gut bacteria that supports a healthy immune system, helping your kids avoid taking any sick days!
Forget the Jelly – Peanut Butter & Dates:
Pair dates and peanut butter together for a delicious start to the day. Slice the dates and spoon the peanut butter in. You can pack 3 or 4 for your kids to take with them if you’re short on time. Your children will enjoy the taste and you can enjoy the satisfaction of knowing they are receiving energy, vitamins, minerals and protein from the peanut butter and fiber from the dates.
These 5 breakfast ideas will start your children off to a great day and keep them focused all day long. And if you’re concerned about your child getting all of the nutrients they need, talk to your pediatrician about a multivitamin to support a healthy diet.