Myth: It is ok if my child does not eat breakfast. There is just no time in the morning.

Answer: Busted

We have all heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet some kids still do not eat it. Breakfast not only supplies the body with energy but also nutrients to kick start the day. Studies have shown that children who eat breakfast perform better in school, score higher on tests, have higher attendance and are less likely to be overweight. No time for breakfast? No problem, try preparing it the night before or keep quick and easy on-the-go foods available.

Yogurt, fresh fruit, a bagel and peanut butter, string cheese and toast are all great on-the-go breakfast ideas. Foods such as instant oatmeal, cereal and milk and waffles are quick and easy to make. And if you want to prepare breakfast the evening before, try making a breakfast sandwich with a fried egg, turkey bacon and a slice of cheese on a whole-wheat bagel. Just pop it in the microwave in the morning and eat it in the car or bus.

Want to try something new? Recipes that you can prepare on the weekend and keep in the fridge all week are also quick and easy breakfast ideas. Baked Blueberry and Peach Oatmeal is easy to prepare, healthy for you and delicious!

For more information on back-to-school nutrition, visit Missouri Families or MyPyramid.

Guest Contributor: Eva Hightaian, Nutrition Intern at the University of Missouri
Co-Author: Donna Mehrle, MPH, RD, LD, mehrled@missouri.edu, University of Missouri Extension