My daughter once said, “I’m so glad to be going back to school. I was getting tired of sleeping in and having fun with my friends.”
The art of sarcasm begins early in life.
The end of summer, however, puts us parents 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 this annual reprieve doesn’t come without its challenges. Like feeding the young ‘uns, 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 healthy meal 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.
Some would rather chew than slurp their breakfast, and cereal bars are one of the quickest ways to satisfy them. This recipe uses almond butter and honey, along with dried cherries – packing a yummy boost of nutrition.
If you’d rather go savoury than sweet, try the Southwest Breakfast Wrap. This recipe combines veggies, cheese and eggs, providing a dose of healthy carbs and protein. You can make it the night before, and assemble in the morning.
If your kids balk at eating healthy, try deception. These chocolate muffins are so tasty, (especially if you add a bit more cocoa) 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
