The end of summer is bittersweet.

After a relaxing few months of taking things at a slower pace, the ring of an alarm clock can be a rude awakening.  Getting back into a daily school routine can be tough for both kids and parents, when the slow mornings of summertime are abruptly replaced with early rising and chaotic routines of backpacks, school supplies, car pooling and homework.

While parents begin the annual scramble for back-to-school essentials with their kids, many overlook the most important necessity for the school year—healthy meals.  After all, childhood is a crucial time when bodies are growing and a healthy diet is essential in helping children grow and develop correctly. It also plays a huge role in mental development and the ability to learn.

Various studies show that children who eat healthy meals tend to have better concentration, better attitudes towards school and are more attentive in class.

Most parents recognize that a nutritious breakfast is an important way to start the day right, but who has time to sit down—let alone prepare!—a meal in the morning madness? And although we all want the best for our children, many parents rely on convenience foods, sending their kids to school with less than optimal breakfasts.

From processed foods, to sugary muffins or cereals that contain harmful dyes, preservatives and chemicals, many children begin their day on the wrong foot, because they’re not eating real food.

Yes, feeding kids quick and healthy breakfasts can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Whether you have time to pull off a sit-down meal or need a breakfast on the go, do your kids a favor by not skimping on nutrition. Not only will you help your children grow properly, you will be instilling healthy habits that can last throughout their lives.

Remember, as parents, we play a significant role in shaping our children’s eating patterns!

Nutritious, home-made smoothies are a great way to start the day. They take only moments to prepare and provide your children with the vital nutrients required for optimal health. Smoothies are also great to slip in healthy extras (flax, chia, hemp, avocado, leafy greens, sprouts) to create delicious super meals in a glass.

Below are some quick recipes to help everyone in the family start the day well-nourished with a delicious (& healthy!) breakfast —even if you just have a few minutes to spare.

Here’s to a healthy breakfast!

“Peanut Butter” and Banana Smoothie

A super healthy and delicious shake, perfect for rushed mornings

• 1-1/2 cups almond or hemp milk
• 1 frozen banana
• 1/4 cup almond butter
• 1 TBSP maple syrup, raw agave, honey (or a few drops of stevia)
• dash of cinnamon (optional)

Blend until smooth. Pour into glass and serve.

Hemp & Berry Smoothie

Who doesn’t like strawberry “milk” shakes?

• 1 banana
• 2 tablespoons hulled hemp seed
• 2 cups frozen berries
• 2 cup pure water
•  1 TBSP sweetener of choice (maple syrup, raw agave, honey, or a few drops of stevia)
• Dash of vanilla (optional)

Blend all ingredients until creamy.

The Green Grinch Smoothie

Nutritious and delicious!

• 2 mangos
• 2 cups coconut water (or plain water)
• 1-2 cups romaine lettuce
• 2 TBSP hemp seeds

Blend ingredients until smooth.

Enjoy!

Like elephant food on Facebook.

Assistant Editor: Gabriela Magana / Editor: Catherine Monkman