Breakfast
is the most important meal of the day. It’s especially true
for kids because they are continuously growing and changing. A nutritious
breakfast provides the sugar, starch, protein and fat they need
for constant energy. Breakfast also helps them get their daily allowance
of vitamins, fiber and minerals, especially iron and vitamin C.
The benefits of
breakfast
Studies have shown that eating breakfast gives children
the nutritional boost they need to get the learning process going.
And there are other benefits as well. Children who eat breakfast
(when compared with those who rarely eat breakfast):
Learn
better (and have improved memory).
Achieve
more (better math and reading scores—almost a whole letter
grade higher; and better standardized test scores).
Participate
in the class more often (and pay better attention to their teachers).
Are
less nervous and depressed.
Behave
better (fewer trips to the principal’s office).
Attend
school more often (less absences and tardiness).
Visit
the school nurse less often.
Children
who are hungry can be sluggish, irritable, or can appear disinterested
when they have a difficult task to perform. In addition, being hungry
can affect their growth, their personality and their ability to
get along with others.
Tasty treats other
than cereal
If they loved the veggie pizza your family had for dinner last night,
try a slice, cold or warmed in the microwave, with a glass of milk.
Or make a minipizza by spreading toppings on half a bagel or English
muffin. Grilled cheese, a peanut butter and banana sandwich, or
any other leftover makes good breakfast food too.
Quick breakfast
ideas
There are lots of fun, easy recipes you can try to keep variety
in your mornings. If you're ready to try something new, here are
some simple ideas:
Throw
some cut-up vegetables and grated cheese into the frying pan with
your scrambled eggs, and wrap it all in a warm tortilla for a
breakfast burrito.
Top
a bowl of yogurt with sliced apples and granola for a breakfast
sundae.
Let
them make their own breakfast trail mix by tossing dry cereal
with raisins and peanuts.
Make
a breakfast shake from yogurt, berries and a few ice cubes in
the blender.
Whether
it's pancakes, cereal, fruit, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich,
or last night’s leftovers—eating breakfast leads to better
health, learning and behavior. These are all keys to success at
school—and in life.
