Mornings! What a concept. We rush around trying to get ready for our day, our child’s day and be sure the whole family is out the door on time. There is one thing that is missed in our hectic mornings, Breakfast.
Breakfast is to be said the most important meal of the day. There have been studies that children who eat breakfast have higher test scores, less sick days missed, decreases the snacking throughout the day and an all around happier child.
Children no matter what age learn from us as parents. If your child watches you running around with only a cup of coffee for breakfast, why should they want to eat breakfast either? We as parents need to be role models for our children’s nutrition. What better way to do this then to have breakfast ourselves. We do not have to sit down and have a four course homemade breakfast, there are many things that are on the market that can be made easily, quickly and can still be nutritious.
Some things to look for when making good breakfast decisions are whole grains, protein, and not too much sugar. Whole grains are found in cereals, bread and rice. Whole grains provide energy to help stay active, provide nutrients for vital health and body maintence of our bodies. They also have fiber, which not only keeps children fuller longer but also will keep their digestive tract regular. Proteins help our body’s cell to grow and survive. Sugars also provide energy for children but very little minerals and vitamins. Too much sugar can lead to childhood obesity.
Some good examples of fast, nutritious breakfast are smoothies, frozen whole grain waffles, whole wheat toast with peanut butter, whole grain toasted bagel with cream cheese and whole grain cereal served with milk.
Smoothies can be made in the morning, the night before or at the beginning of the week and pour out a serving as needed. Fresh fruit and milk are all that are needed to make delicious smoothie. Bananas, blueberries, strawberries, mango or any other fruit of your choice makes an excellent smoothie blended with milk. Frozen waffles are easily popped into the toaster and can be a breakfast that can be eaten on the run when topped with flavored cream cheese, peanut butter or apple slices. Whole wheat toast or bagels are another on the run meal that can be held in the children’s hand. It can also be topped with peanut butter, flavored cream cheese, apple slices, banana slices or raisins. Whole grain cereal is the go to easy breakfast when topped with milk and fruit on the side. It is a fulfilling nutritious breakfast.
Remember children learn from watching us so we can eat the same easy to go breakfast that they can. It is a win-win situation. Good luck and enjoy that breakfast!!
Some good recipes can be found
http://www.parentsconnect.com/parenting/quick-breakfast-recipes.html
http://www.babble.com/best-recipes/healthy-eating/10-easy-healthy-kids-breakfast-recipes-pancake-smoothies/
Submited By: Christina C
Sound good. I like that you added a poll on top, it helps include the reader in your blog. It also may have people to come back and read what everyone else thinks is the best brand. I like the recipe sites also, I will be trying them out.
ReplyDeleteThank you Don. I did try one of the recipes and my daughter loved it! Thanks for visting and come back soon!
ReplyDeleteGreat recipes. Im always looking for new foods for my daughter to try.
ReplyDeleteChristina
ReplyDeleteYou are right about breakfast being important. I don't know how anyone survives drinking only coffee for breakfast. Eating breakfast is suppose to be good if you are on a diet trying to lose weight also.
Ruth Hall
This is a great post! Breakfast is definitely the best meal of the day and helps kids start off the day. I know when I watch my nieces I always make sure to feed them as soon as they get up (they are always hungry). Breakfast helps them to wake and helps them from being crabby as well.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading the blog.
Kristen Mummert
Christina, it looks like you have received lots of positive comments. I agree that this is a strong reminder of the example we should set with breakfast. Not only that, but it's so important for you. I love that you included so many references to whole grains. That is really a trend now, and it's a good one. Nice job.
ReplyDeleteI like the concept of focusing on breakfast, even if you have children that sleep late it's still something to never forget.
ReplyDeleteGood info provided, very good insight.
Alison
Thank you all for the comments. I have been having a hard time with being a very on the go mom to find time for myself let alone my daughter fro breakfast. Hope some of these ideas help!
ReplyDeleteChristina C
Christina,
ReplyDeleteParents need to set a good example for their children in every aspect of life including eating a healthy breakfast. I like that you give examples of healthy breakfast choices, even quick ones. Nice job.
Samantha Cribbs