This article is part of the following topics:   Early Elementary School Elementary School Kindergarten Middle School Nutrition & Diet

Eating Breakfast Improves Behavior, Problem-Solving

But parents who want their children to do well in school will insist on breakfast, say experts.

Studies have shown that children who eat breakfast:

• Think faster and more clearly.
• Solve classroom problems more easily.
• Are less fidgety and disruptive.

Those who don’t eat breakfast are less attentive. They are less stable emotionally. And they can’t use and recall information as well.

How can you get a middle schooler to eat breakfast? One way is to eat with them. Kids are more apt to eat if they have company. Another way is prepare “grab and go” breakfasts. Just include one thing from the three basic food groups. For instance:

• For a grain serve a bagel (maybe with peanut butter on it for protein), some dry cereal or toast.
• For dairy, a slice of cheese, yogurt or glass of milk.
• For fruit, a banana, apple, orange or glass of juice.
• Or see if there is a breakfast program at school. Kids usually can get company and a healthy breakfast in the school cafeteria.

Copyright © Parent Institute