Before standardized testing in the spring, the need for eating a good breakfast usually comes up. Of course the need for a good breakfast is a year round requirement - not just the week of testing! Research on the relationship between a healthful lifestyle and academic achievement supports this equation: good nutrition + exercise = optimal learning.

Serve a breakfast that includes a good source of protein such as peanut butter, cheese, egg or milk. Serve two other food groups to fill in the rest of the meal such as whole-grain toast or cereal with fruit.

You child may also enjoy this interactive learning tool, BreakFAST and Jump to it! It is geared for lower elementary children and provides practice planning a healthy breakfast in a virtual kitchen.