National School Breakfast Week

 

Eating breakfast at school is a smart way to start the day!  Did you know that students who eat a nutritious breakfast:

• Start the day ready to learn
• Miss fewer school days
• Feel less hungry
• Do better in school

National School Breakfast Week is March 3-7.  Take time to contact your school to see whether free or reduce school breakfast is available for your child.  School breakfast can stretch your food dollars, saves time in the morning, and provides a nutritious morning meal for your child each school day. 

Talk with your child about healthy food choices for breakfast. Take time to read the school breakfast menu together.  Your child should bring home a copy of the menu from school each month, or you can look for the menu on the school's website.  Post the menu where everyone can see it.  You might find some foods your child already likes, as well as some new foods to try.

Whole grains, breads and cereals, low-fat or fat free dairy foods like milk and yogurt, fruit and 100% fruit juice are all great choices to start the day off right.  Visit www.choosemyplate.gov for more information about MyPlate, choosing healthy foods, and easy recipes.  Physical activity ideas and fun online games to learn about making healthy choices are also located on the website.