Outside the Box

Back-to-School Breakfasts

For years my kids favored frozen waffles for breakfast, often eating them straight from the box—literally frozen. I indulged this preference with a mix of gleeful acceptance for the ease factor and serious self-reproach for the lack of nutrition. So over the summer, when they both admitted they simply could not eat another frozen waffle, I jumped at the chance to introduce them to new ways to start the day. We concocted bars and bowls and beverages, each packing a healthy, nutritious punch.

As busy mornings return with fall schedules, our breakfasts still come together quickly. I keep the pantry stocked with whole grains for granola, oat-filled bars, and warm breakfast bowls topped with toasty nuts and cinnamon. The fridge holds pastured eggs to be hard-boiled, scrambled with greens, or tucked into hand-held bites. And a variety of frozen organic fruit is at the ready for blending into on-the-go smoothies.

If your family could use a little help thinking outside the (waffle) box for breakfast, here are a few healthy faves to get you started!