Although it may not feel like the end of summer, the calendar is reading August, which means it is time to start preparing for returning to school. The transition out of summertime is never easy, but one way to start preparing is to put together a list of easy, nutritious back-to-school breakfasts. Eating breakfast is key to sending children to school energized and ready to learn. The benefits of eating a healthy breakfast in the morning include more energy, improved concentration, better grades, and maintaining a healthy weight.

While eating breakfast is essential, not all breakfasts are created equal. Better breakfasts include whole grains, a source of protein or dairy, and fruits or vegetables. A breakfast with these elements provide young people with complex carbohydrates and essential vitamins and minerals that help sustain their energy.

Breakfast Options

Below are some simple, nutritious, and delicious back-to-school breakfasts that can easily be made before school.

Overnight Oats

Try Live Well Alabama’s Overnight Oats recipe! Prepare oats overnight for a healthy breakfast the next morning. This recipe serves two.

• ½ cup old-fashioned oats
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon raisins
• ½ cup skim milk

Directions: Mix oats, cinnamon, and raisins together in bowl. Add milk, stir, and leave in refrigerator overnight. Serve the next day.

Sunrise English Muffin

Live Well Alabama’s Sunrise English Muffin recipe is great for breakfast. This recipe serves four.

• 2 whole-wheat English muffins, split
• 4 tablespoons plain yogurt
• Sprinkle of cinnamon
• ¾ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• 1 can diced pineapple, 8 ounces, drained

Directions: Toast each English muffin half in a toaster. Spread each half with plain yogurt, sprinkle with cinnamon, and top each half with strawberries and pineapple.

Breakfast Smoothie

Mix up a breakfast smoothie made with low-fat milk and frozen fruit.