For anyone with kids, the summer means daily ice cream, pizza, chicken fingers, italian ices, sleepovers and late night bedtimes - 'cause, hey, it's summer vacation.
However, as summer vacation nears the end (boo hoo!), now is the time to get your kids back on the right track for a healthy new school year.
As back to school rolls around, in order for kids to do their very best in school, it is important for children to get plenty of rest, exercise and eat healthy foods.
You've heard it time and time again- breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But, did you know, that it's also the most neglected. A great way to instill a healthy diet is to make sure your child starts the day with a healthy breakfast! Studies have shown that children who eat a healthy breakfast pay better attention in school, score higher on math and reading tests, and behave better overall. Eating a healthy breakfast helps children (and adults) maintain a healthy weight and have lower blood cholesterol.It is important that breakfast include protein and fiber. Stay away from high carb foods that are high in sugar. That means avoid doughnuts, sugary cereals, white bread, white bagels, and sugary fruit juices.
Great sources of protein and fiber are: eggs, greek yogurt (great in a smoothie), low fat dairy foods (milk and cottage cheese), lean meats, nuts and seeds, whole grain bread, whole grain cereal, fresh fruit, veggies, beans.
Some great ideas (if you are stuck) are: breakfast burritos, meat and veggie omelets, smoothies, toast with cottage cheese and fruit, peanut butter on toast with fresh fruit, and egg sandwiches.
Smoothies are great sources of energy, and especially if you are running late, it's super quick! Just throw it all in a blender and a great breakfast is all ready!
Also, when trying to get the kids out the door, plan ahead. Measure cereal out the night before. Make muffins and breads over the weekend (when you have a little extra time) and freeze for weekday mornings. Don't be a short-order cook! Encourage everyone to eat the same breakfast!
And don't forget to be a great role model! Start your day off with the same smart healthy breakfast and together your family will be on the road to practicing healthy habits!
