Why Kids Shouldn't Skip Breakfast Before School

CLEVELAND - We all know mornings can be hectic with kids and sometimes that means they might skip breakfast before school.

But that habit could hurt them in the long run.

“Negatives if you skip breakfast are fatigue and trouble thinking. So, brain fog, just feeling tired, physically sluggish and not being able to get through the day. Those would be the biggest deficits of not eating breakfast in the mornings,” said Jennifer Hyland, RD, registered dietitian at Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

Hyland said breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated.

She suggests starting the day with some fiber and protein to help keep your child full and energized.

Some ideas include eggs with whole grain toast, a bowl of whole grain cereal with milk and fruit, overnight oatmeal, hard boiled eggs, turkey sausage, string cheese or Greek yogurt withlow sugar granola.

Hyland said in general, it’s best to avoid sugary drinks and foods since they’re not very filling and could lead to a sugar crash later in the day. 

“Older kids oftentimes ask me about doing a protein drink or a smoothie, and I think that can be a goodoption. Little kids don't always need as much protein as we think. But for the older kid, the teenager, if they want to do a prepackaged protein drink, if they want to do a smoothie that they put some components in there, it's quick and easy. They can be reasonable options,” she said.

Hyland said it can also help to do meal prepping ahead of time. 

You could make egg sandwiches and toss them in the freezer.

Then on mornings where things are rushed, you can quickly grab one, heat it up, and get out the door.