Starting the Day Off Right: What’s a Parent to Do?
You’ve heard it a million times before: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And that is especially true for children, who get a bowl full of benefits when they eat a well-balanced breakfast.
But, for many families, mornings are hectic! Often, families rush out the door in the morning, leaving kids to eat on the run, at school, or not at all. Lauren Crain, a registered dietitian, offers advice along with tips and meal ideas to help parents overcome their breakfast struggles.
Fuel + Focus
“Kids have to get up early and use their brains to learn in school,” says Lauren (pictured). “Not only that, but they’re growing, which ups their energy needs! Eating breakfast fuels their brains to give them energy and to help them focus on what their teachers are saying.”
What Makes a Breakfast Good?
A well-rounded breakfast includes a combo of carbs for energy (think oatmeal or whole wheat toast), protein to keep you full longer (peanut butter, yogurt, eggs), and a healthy fat as an extra source of energy (avocado or nuts). For carbs, choose whole wheat or whole grains. “Bonus points if you include fiber in your child’s breakfast,” says Lauren.
A Smoother Start
On the blog, Lauren offers a bunch of tips to make breakfast a smoother process. One idea: Ask your child what they like to eat! Let them choose items (even if they’re not typical “breakfast” foods), help pick out foods at the grocery store, or help prepare breakfast in the morning or night before.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.