Mastering the Morning Breakfast Routine

Morning Rush 

It’s no secret that weekday morning routines can be hectic. Between meal prep and getting everyone out the door on time, there's a lot to fit in. 

No matter how busy things get, it is important to make time for breakfast. Children need to refuel energy levels to take part in learning and activities at school or daycare.  

Thankfully, getting organized ahead of time can make a big difference. Here are some ideas to help: 

Ideas for Success 

• Prepare as much as possible the night before. Get backpacks ready, assemble lunches, and get breakfast foods ready.  
• Share tasks with family members and ask for helpers and input.  
• Set alarms 10 minutes earlier to leave more time for breakfast. 
• Try make-ahead breakfasts. One example is overnight oats made with milk and topped with fruit. Another idea is a breakfast parfait made with yogurt, fruit and oats. 
• Teach kids to prepare their own simple breakfast if they are old enough. 
• Serve leftovers for breakfast.  
• Send items to school or daycare if your child is not hungry at breakfast.  

Aim to have foods from the three categories in Canada’s Food Guide at breakfast time. This includes Vegetables and Fruit, Whole Grain Foods, and Protein Foods. 

Quick and Easy Breakfasts 

• Fruit and yogurt smoothie with a whole grain muffin 
• Scrambled egg, cheese and bell pepper wrapped in a whole grain tortilla 
• Whole wheat English muffin with nut butter and sliced banana 
• Whole grain cereal with fruit and milk 
• A banana rolled up in a tortilla with yogurt or peanut butter 

Managing a family’s morning routine can be taxing. It takes work, but a little planning goes a long way. This will allow more time to ensure children have time to eat. 

Check out our Strawberry Banana Parfait for a make-aheadbreakfast!