By: Emily Carter
Updated: Dec. 18, 2023
Remember when we used to be meticulous about preparing every meal for our little ones? We’d slice grapes and blueberries just right to keep them safe. We made it a point to introduce them to a variety of flavors and textures. Looking back, I realize there are invaluable lessons from those baby days that I need to carry into our current breakfast routine. As our kids grow older, it’s easy to overlook the significance of breakfast and how I can enhance it for them—and for myself too!
1. Always Have Tempting Options Ready.
That last piece of stale bread or the crumbs from the cereal box doesn’t cut it. I never let my babies go hungry, so why should I allow my big kids to settle for less? Keeping a well-stocked pantry means my middle-schooler won’t be tempted to grab junk food on the way to school.
2. Mix It Up!
Remember the colorful jars of baby food? We kept our little ones engaged with diverse options. My kids may love their familiar favorites, like Special K Red Berries and Eggo waffles, but there are countless other delicious foods to explore. I need to break free from complacency in our breakfast choices and encourage them to embrace variety.
3. Foster Independence.
We used to fill our babies’ highchair trays with an array of foods, allowing them to choose what to eat—even if it resulted in a quirky blend of fruit and cookies. Why not transform breakfast into a fun adventure now? The next time they ask for cereal, I’ll let them pick their own toppings and mix their ultimate creation. It’s a chance for them to get creative!
4. Present Fruit Visibly.
Instead of just asking if they want apples or grapes, I should showcase these fruits on the table. A bowl of vibrant clementines has a way of disappearing faster than a hidden bag of oranges in the fridge. Just like babies, kids are drawn to what they can see—making visible deliciousness a game changer.
5. Join Them at the Table.
I can’t recall the last time I sat down with my kids during breakfast. Often, I’m bustling around while they eat. Taking just ten minutes to share a meal with them could be enjoyable. Plus, I won’t have to worry about feeding them or wiping their faces!
These insights remind me to appreciate the simple joys of breakfast and the valuable lessons our little ones provide. If you’re interested in more parenting tips, check out this post on invaluable parenting lessons. And if you’re considering expanding your family, you can find trusted resources like Make a Mom for at-home insemination kits or explore Healthline’s excellent information on IVF and pregnancy.
In summary, let’s take a page from the baby book and infuse our breakfast routines with creativity, variety, and connection. After all, a happy breakfast can set the tone for the whole day!
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