The most important meal of the day – breakfast! And now that kids are heading back to school, it is even more important to fuel their brains for the day. Studies show that kids and adults who eat breakfast are more alert, think clearer, and have improved moods. Eating breakfast decreases our risk for heart disease, improves digestion, and builds strong bones. What better way to set your family’s day for success than incorporating a nutritious breakfast?

Don’t skip breakfast!

Even though breakfast is the most important meal of the day, nearly half the population is still skipping a morning meal! Do you bypass breakfast to make your hectic mornings easier? Unfortunately, this tactic can backfire leading to unwanted weight gain and hunger throughout the day.

Here are some fun and convenient ways to assure you and the kids are fueling up for the day, while making mornings a breeze!

  • Sit down together and plan at least 2 morning meals for the week. This way you can alternate between days and reduce overall food waste. Put this menu in plain sight so everybody is aware of the morning meals.
  • Each evening, set the table for breakfast. Put non-perishables on the counter like granola, oatmeal packets or cereal. Store perishable foods in the front of the refrigerator so they are easy to grab like hard boiled eggs, yogurt cups, and milk.
  • Make brown bag breakfasts for the whole family. Pack and label each person’s bag and store them in the front of the fridge to easily access the next morning. Better yet, have the kids pack their own!

Brown Bag Breakfast Ideas  

A quality, nutrient-dense breakfast should include a fruit or vegetable with a protein or healthy fat to leave you feeling satisfied. Breakfast foods can also be convenient if prepared ahead of time. Try some of these combinations for optimal breakfast nutrition.

  • Egg muffins made with vegetables
  • Overnight oats made with fruit and Greek yogurt
  • Homemade granola bars made with heart-healthy nuts and dried fruit
  • Apple slices with string cheese
  • Banana with 2 tablespoons of nut butter
  • 1-2 Hard-boiled eggs and 15 grapes
  • ¼ cup of nuts (cashews, almonds, pistachios) with a fruit cup