Recent studies show that kids who eat breakfast behave better than kids who don’t. But what can a parent do when a child refuses to eat this most important meal of the day? If the child says he or she isn’t hungry, be patient and allow him or her to begin slowly. Eventually, most children will get accustomed to eating early in the morning before school. They begin to understand that it helps improve their all-around performance and ward off hunger before lunch.

Many simple, but healthy, food choices are available. Just find a few that your child agrees upon and you will eliminate morning squabbles. Here are some suggestions on the types of foods to stock up on and other ways to get through the breakfast controversy:

·        Cheese sticks or cubes, yogurt, or fruit can be a great, fast start. It may not be a full breakfast in your mind, but at least your son or daughter is eating something nutritious.

·        Get out the blender and make smoothies together. A varied combination of such things as bananas, strawberries, yogurt, frozen yogurt, and fruit juices can give a child a great start to any day. There also are pre-packaged instant breakfast drinks that offer a lot of nutrients.

·        Whole grain toast with peanut butter can be a healthy choice, too, or make some instant oatmeal. The flavors of oatmeal available these days can satisfy even the fussiest of eaters.

·        Granola bars and healthy breakfast bars can also be a quick alternative. Make sure to read the labels to identify if the bars really do have any nutrients instead of just sugar and sodium.

·        Frozen waffles, pancakes, and French toast are fast and can be made even healthier with a helping of strawberries or blueberries on top.

·        Don’t turn on the television, computer, or radio while you sit down with your child to eat breakfast.

·        Have your child set his or her alarm 15 minutes early to allow for breakfast time.