Forget about summer – after having the kids schooled at home, off and on, over the past two years, it will be a relief for many parents to finally send them back to the classroom. Heck, I’m forgetting what it feels like to be at home alone. The anticipation of this state puts me in mind of that old Staples commercial where parents gleefully shop for school supplies, choreographed to the song: ‘It’s the most wonderful time of the year.’
But such relief doesn’t come without its challenges. Like hurriedly assembling meals, while simultaneously dealing with unfinished homework, missing socks and an overall cranky attitude.
So when dealing with breakfast, preparation is key. Anything you can do quickly – or the night before – while providing a tasty and nutritious food works for me. Here are a few kid-friendly options that will have yours out the door in plenty of time for the bus.
Let’s start with a few items that have little or no prep time. Like simply spooning some unsweetened Greek yogurt into a bowl, mixing in a little honey along with a handful of chopped nuts. Or taking that yogurt and blending it into a fruit smoothie. Of course, you can keep it simple, or load up on ingredients like berries, spinach, ground flax seed and protein powder.
My kids prefer the veggie-free recipes, but with some of these, they won’t even notice the healthy dose of kale or spinach.
Some would rather chew than slurp their breakfast, and cereal bars are one of the quickest ways to satisfy them. This recipe uses oats, pumpkin seeds, slivered almonds, and dried cranberries – packing a yummy boost of nutrition.
If you’d rather go savoury than sweet, try the Egg Pesto Breakfast Wrap. This recipe combines veggies, cheese, eggs, and a little turkey bacon, providing a dose of healthy carbs and protein.
If your kids balk at eating healthy, try deception. These muffins are so chocolatey, they will never know they’re also packed with zucchini. Ha! Anytime you can sneak nutritious ingredients into a tasty treat, it’s a win for all.
So while enduring the mayhem that comes with back-to-school, keep in mind that better times are ahead – for you. These breakfast ideas should help ease the kid chaos, and if you make a little extra, will also speed up your morning departure.
How about sending us some of your favourite grab-and-go meals?
— Neil
