Early Childhood Education: Setting the Foundation for Success
In the bustle of morning routines, it's easy to overlook the significance of a nutritious breakfast for school-aged children. A balanced breakfast can have a profound impact on a child's cognitive function, behaviour, and mood, setting them up for a successful day at school.
According to experts, a protein-rich breakfast can reduce hunger for up to four hours, leading to better concentration and a higher nutritional quality intake compared to breakfasts eaten outside of school. The Ohio State University Extension offers various healthy breakfast ideas to fuel your child's school day effectively. These include whole-grain cereals with low sugar content, overnight oats made with milk, cinnamon, fruit, and nuts or seeds, and breakfasts prepared ahead of time to ease morning routines and encourage consistency.
Eating breakfast together at home is also beneficial, as it models healthy habits and promotes positive psychosocial outcomes in children.
Establishing a regular evening routine is another key factor in a child's success. This routine helps children learn expectations and makes bedtime easier. Activities such as reviewing school papers each evening and displaying them proudly can encourage children to share what they've learned.
Sharing a bedtime story can be a special time for both you and your child, providing a feeling of security. Bath time, if not mentioned specifically, should follow TV time to maintain a consistent routine. Setting a specific TV watching time helps children understand their schedule and reduces arguments.
For those seeking further information on parenting topics, the Children, Youth, and Families Education and Research Network (CYFERNET) is a valuable resource.
In conclusion, a nutritious breakfast supports cognitive function, behaviour, and mood in children while helping to manage hunger and provide sustained energy throughout the morning. Establishing a regular evening routine also plays a crucial role in a child's success, both academically and emotionally.
- In addition to a nutritious breakfast, engaging in activities that promote positive psychosocial outcomes, such as reading bedtime stories, can strengthen the bond between parent and child and provide a sense of security.
- For parents seeking guidance on various aspects of child development beyond nutrition, education-and-self-development resources like the Children, Youth, and Families Education and Research Network (CYFERNET) can offer valuable insights on parenting topics.
- Apart from ensuring a balanced breakfast, establishing a regular evening routine can help children learn expectations, make bedtime easier, and encourage a sense of responsibility, as activities like reviewing school papers can reinforce the importance of organization and time management.
