There have been days that I’ve wondered if I’ve given my daughters enough for breakfast before I send them out in the world. In fact, I know they should probably have a bit more protein at this morning meal, but they at least always have a fresh fruit and cereal/granola bar.

When volunteering in Julianne’s First Grade class I was amazed at the advantage she had…even without the protein.

I was a at a science station in the room, which involved chocolate chip cookies.  They kids could hardly finish the experiment because their mouths were drooling over the cookie they were using. I had to put a time minimum on the experiment to assure the cookie was examined long enough before being devoured.

So in a silly tone I finally said: “Geez, didn’t you guys have breakfast?”  (It was only 9:30a.m.)

Everyone at the table said “NO”, except for one boy who had a piece of toast. YIKES!  I was amazed!  Their hair was combed, their clothes matched, their teeth were brushed….but no breakfast!

So the next group rotates through and I just had to ask what everyone had for breakfast while they were eating cookies.  Answers: Chocolate Cereal (2), Toast Only (2), Chocolate Pop Tarts (2). That was it!  (25 kids in the room and of course I didn’t drill the students, this is just what naturally came up in conversation.)

I asked the teacher if most kids in her room skip breakfast. She said “yes” and that they deal will a lot of stomach aches before lunch.  They eat lunch at 11a.m….thank goodness it isn’t any later!

I can’t imagine that all of the parents are starving themselves until 11a.m. all day.  I’m sure they’ve at least chugged 12-20 oz of caffeine to get the day going or they’ll make up for it lunch.  (Which the students only have about 10 minutes to eat.)

So, if you want to give your kids an advantage at school.  Do the simple things we know we should and give your child breakfast! The studies are out there:  Kids who eat breakfast do better in school!

Just like we shouldn’t skip breakfast or our metabolism pays us back by storing food…I’m thinking this could be a significant part of the childhood obesity issues we’re having in America.  I mean really…it seems we can’t even get something non-toxic in our kids to start their day.  It really saddens me

So Mom – Dad, listen up: There are alternatives if your child won’t eat breakfast or you need a quick meal on the go. Especially in the summer I like to reach for a quick meal for all of us.  Shaklee has a great meal shake in chocolate  or vanilla that tastes great plain or blended with a banana or frozen strawberries.  There’s really no excuse for not sending the kids off with a good start!

P.S.  Don’t forget to lead by example! If you want to to make it through your day effectively, why not Shake it up with your kids!