But First, Milk
Like those of us who can’t start the morning without a cup of coffee, our kids can really use milk’s nutrition to get them going in the morning.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it helps recharge our bodies after an overnight fast. But are your little ones eating the right kind of breakfast to power up their morning? Kids especially need to fuel up each morning to get their bodies ready to succeed! So, set your children up for success and serve a quick and easy, nutritious breakfast with milk.
Eating breakfast helps everyone start the day off right with both energy and focus.
Why Milk at Breakfast
- Every glass of milk has 9 essential nutrients, including calcium, protein, and B-vitamins. What an easy way to boost nutrition in the morning meal!
- Protein at breakfast can help keep kids feel full and satisfied so they won’t feel hungry by mid-morning. Milk contains 8 grams of high-quality protein per 8-ounce glass, and other dairy foods such as yogurt and cheese are also sources of protein to add to the a.m. menu.
- Milk can help increase your kids’ intake of key nutrients — including calcium and vitamin D, two nutrients of concern most kids are lacking.
The How-To's of a Breakfast Routine
All of this sounds great, but it is easier said than done! We know it can be challenging to establish a breakfast routine when mornings are so hectic. From organizing schedules, finding all the homework assignments, and starting school on time, breakfast time can be rushed. Here are some ideas on how to put milk first at breakfast, no matter what that looks like in your home:
- For those who want to create a peaceful, sit-down routine the whole family can enjoy, try a delicious Breakfast Couscous.
- If you are someone who is organized enough to prepare breakfast for yourself and the kids ahead of time, try Overnight Oats.
- And, finally, for the on-the-go breakfast eaters, there is always a power meal Chunky Monkey Smoothie option.
Hmm, breakfast AT school?
If your child’s school offers breakfast, give it a try! School breakfast programs provide positive impact in the classroom. Not only can regular breakfast participation improve student behavior and enhance learning environments, but it is also associated with improved attendance and decreased tardiness. School breakfast not only helps get children to school on time, it also helps get them ready to learn by ensuring he or she won’t go to class hungry! And. Yep, it’s healthy! School breakfast is based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025’s healthy eating patterns and requires servings of whole grains, fruit and fat-free or low-fat milk.
Help your kid get off to a great start each day by having breakfast. Whether that means switching up your morning routine at home, on-the-go, or at school– it’s a no brainer. It is hard to be your best without milk first at breakfast!
