Tips for a Great School Day

MISSION, KS--(Marketwired - Aug 4, 2014) - (Family Features) There are various habits that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. But one healthy habit in particular, the routine of having a nutritious breakfast every morning, is one that can positively impact your family.

A nutritious breakfast is important to fuel your body and brain after an overnight fast, and provide the nutrition you need to start the day. For parents who want their children to be their best, good nutrition at breakfast can make all the difference. In fact a good breakfast is just as important as having sharp pencils and the right gym shoes.

Tips to start the day right
To help your kids get the right start to the school day, follow these nutrition and wellness tips:

• Be a Healthy Role Model
  Kids emulate everything their parents do, including eating habits when mealtime rolls around. Show your kids that making smart, healthy choices is something that is important and vital to you. When they see you choosing vegetables and fruits over junk food, they will want to follow in your footsteps. When they adopt these types of eating habits, they'll have the proper fuel to help get them through their school days.
  
  
• Stock Up on Simple Options
  Do you ever have those hectic mornings when you're trying to get everyone out the door? Easy-to-make breakfast options are great to have on hand, such as Carnation Breakfast Essentials^® nutritional drinks and bars. These convenient products offer an easy and nutritious way for your kids to start their day right, with a rich source of protein and 21 vitamins and minerals, including calcium to help build strong bones.
  
  
• Mix Up Lunches
  A lunch consisting of a sandwich, cheese stick and apple can be boring after just a few days. Turn last night's leftovers into a delicious lunchtime meal. For example, grilled chicken can be turned into a wrap, or taco meat can be a perfect topping for salad or rice. This type of repurposing can save busy parents time and money throughout the school year.
  
  
• Get a Good Night's Sleep
  A great day in the classroom starts with a restful night of quality, restorative sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, kids between ages 3-5 should get between 11-13 hours, while kids between ages 5-12 should get 10-11 hours of sleep. Create a good environment for sleep, which consists of a quiet, dark and cool room that is free of distractions, such as televisions, computers and smartphones.
  
  
• Make Breakfast Fun
  Keep the options for this important morning meal exciting for your kids by mixing in their favorite flavors. Smoothies are a kid favorite that can be quickly created with low fat milk, frozen fruit and a packet of Carnation Breakfast Essentials^® powder drink mix.
  
  

So help your children be their very best by incorporating these tips into your family routine. For helpful recipes and additional tips, visit www.carnationbreakfastessentials.com.

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