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Preschoolers & Breakfast

A part of the Parenting the Preschooler program

Breakfast: Why does it matter?

Preschoolers have an especially high level of energy and are growing and changing at a fast pace. Starting healthy eating habits, such as eating breakfast, is important to maintain their growth and activity levels.

Eating Breakfast Regularly…

  • Prepares a child for learning.
  • Improves behavior and attention.
  • Improves diet quality.
  • May help keep a healthy weight.
Young child with curly hair, wearing a light blue shirt, holds a slice of cucumber and a strawberry. They appear thoughtful and focused. Background is lush and green.

Tips for a Smart Start

Be ready; plan and prepare breakfast the night before to save time in the morning.

Be healthy; make it a goal to have three food groups at breakfast.

Have water available when playing outdoors.

Be creative; add leftover vegetables to scrambled eggs, fruit to cereal, or cook oatmeal with raisins and top with nuts.

Be an example; eat breakfast with your children, to increase the chances of them growing up to be breakfast eaters.

Be flexible; breakfast can be a sandwich with milk or soup with cheese and crackers; there are no rules for what counts as breakfast food.

Be adventurous; if time allows, have children practice fine motor skills by pouring liquids from small pitchers or mixing ingredients together.

Building Blocks of a Healthy Breakfast

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and Vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals.

Some examples:

  • Fresh or frozen fruits
  • Canned fruits in their own juice
  • Unsweetened applesauce
  • Sliced vegetables
  • 100% fruit and vegetable juice, if used, should be limited to 4-6 ounces/day
Alt text: "A grid of small baskets containing fresh berries, including blueberries, blackberries, red raspberries, and golden raspberries, creating a vibrant and colorful pattern."

Protein

Protein foods, such as meats or eggs, nuts and beans, and dairy, also provide healthy fats and nutrients like vitamin D and calcium.

Some examples:

  • Eggs
  • Peanut or almond butter
  • Beans
  • Low fat yogurt, milk & cheese

Whole Grains

Whole grains provide children with fiber so they feel full longer. Whole grains also help keep kids’ hearts healthy.

Some examples:

  • Oatmeal
  • Brown rice
  • Whole-wheat muffins
  • Granola bars
  • Whole-grain pancakes
  • Whole-grain tortillas
  • Whole-wheat toast
  • Whole-wheat creamy style hot cereal
  • Whole-grain cold cereals
  • Cornbread
Eggs in a pan
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