We’ve all been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It gives us energy, improves brain function, and primes our metabolism for the day. But children can be hard to please when it comes to giving them the nutrition they need. That’s why it’s important that we make a tasty, healthy, and quick breakfast for kids.
I know what you’re thinking. “Sure that sounds good now, but my kids never have the time for breakfast.” I can relate, which is why I’ve compiled a list of fast and healthy breakfast foods for kids on the go.
Plain yogurt is high in fiber and has good bacteria that helps aid digestion but quite frankly, tastes like sour cream. Adding honey, granola, nuts and fruit to the mix will make it much more kid friendly while also adding other vitamins and nutrients that your kids can eat while getting ready for the day.
Scrambled eggs are a great source of protein and can be made in minutes. One way to make them more wholesome is to add a splash of milk and some low-fat shredded cheese. This makes for a creamy egg that has both protein and calcium. No time to sit at the table and eat? Heat a soft tortilla shell, dice some bell peppers into the eggs, then spread the eggs and peppers into the shell. Top with some fresh salsa (at least that’s what I do) and you’ve got eggs on the go.
Fruit smoothies are easy to whip up, and because you are making them, you can eliminate the sugars and preservatives found in store bought drinks. Cut up your kids favorite fruits and blend them with low-fat milk or juice and you’ve got a sippable breakfast that kids can even help make.
Another quick breakfast for kids is oatmeal. Like plain yogurt, is boring on it’s own but has fiber and “sticks to your ribs” as my mom always says. Try adding fruits (blueberries, apples, bananas, strawberries) honey, cinnamon, or a dash of maple syrup. It’s quick, filling, and healthy.
There are also plenty of healthy cold cereals that are quick and nutritious. Just be sure to avoid the overly sweetened chocolate, “fruit flavored” and marshmallow varieties.
Preparing breakfast the night before can always help too. Cut up a fruit salad, bake some homemade bread (banana, cranberry/orange, and zucchini all taste great) or make and freeze pancakes that are just as fast as store bought brands while also being healthier provided you go easy on the butter and syrup.
Breakfast is indeed the the most important meal of the day. It gets us going and keeps your kids full at school so they can better concentrate on learning. The best news is that a quick breakfast for kids doesn’t take up your whole morning or leave them with only unhealthy options.
Try some ideas out and let us know what you think! Better yet, share your ideas for healthy on-the-go breakfast ideas.
