A healthy breakfast can keep your child alert and satisfied through the morning. This can help her to focus on her schoolwork, and may lead to better grades. If your child is not an enthusiastic breakfast-eater, encourage her to eat something, even if it does not consist of typical breakfast foods. Any breakfast is better than no breakfast, the KidsHealth website explains, noting that regular consumption of fatty and sugary fare should be avoided.
Traditional Breakfast Foods
Many children thrive on routine, and traditional breakfast foods may be just what your child needs to have a familiar meal each morning. If you are pressed for time, a variety of cold and hot cereals, toast, bagels and fresh fruit are nutritious, filling and quick. If your child prefers pancakes and waffles, try the frozen kind, or make some ahead on the weekend and freeze for use during the week. KidsHealth suggests whole-grain varieties for better nutritional value. Eggs are another good breakfast standby and will provide your child with a protein-packed breakfast with staying power.
Yogurt
Yogurt is low in fat, high in calcium and contains protein. Offer your child a yogurt parfait by layering yogurt, berries or other fruit and granola or crunchy cold cereal, the Family Education website suggests. Another option is to put yogurt, ice and a favorite soft fruit, such as strawberries, bananas or sliced peaches, into the blender for a healthy smoothie. Purchase tubs of yogurt and freeze them for a cold breakfast on hot days.
Pizza
Pizza, particularly if made with whole-wheat crust, can make a healthful and filling breakfast. Leftover pizza from the previous night's dinner can be eaten hot or cold. If you have no pizza in the house, make your own by spreading a bagel with tomato sauce and sprinkling on shredded cheese, then broiling for a few minutes until the cheese melts. Served with a side of fresh fruit, this makes a well-balanced meal.
Dips and Toppings
Children who are reluctant eaters in the morning may eat more if they can have fun toppings or dips with their food. Let your child dip apple slices in yogurt or peanut butter. Vegetables and whole-grain crackers with ranch dip can make a healthy, if nontraditional, breakfast. When serving pancakes, Family Education suggests, offer your child a handful of fresh berries or chopped nuts as a topping. Top a bagel with peanut butter and raisins. The HealthCastle website recommends spreading frozen waffles with applesauce or jam after toasting, instead of maple syrup.
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