5 Breakfast Lessons We Can Learn from Babies

Remember those days when we had to cut grapes and blueberries into tiny pieces just to make sure they were safe for our little ones? Or how we made it a point to offer them various flavors and textures every day? Looking back, I realize there are some valuable lessons I can still apply from my kids’ baby days. As they grow and my focus shifts away from their most basic needs, it’s easy to forget how crucial breakfast is and how I can make it more enjoyable for everyone (myself included!).

1. Stock Up on Yummy Options

The end crust of the bread, leftover crumbs from a cereal box, and half a waffle just won’t cut it for breakfast. I always had an abundance of baby food, so why not ensure we have plenty of appealing meals for my growing kids? If I do, my middle schooler might not feel as tempted to grab something unhealthy on the way to school.

2. Keep It Fresh

Those jars of baby food were all about variety! We kept our babies engaged by introducing new options, and we should absolutely continue that trend. Sure, my kids adore their Special K Red Berries and Eggo waffles, but there are probably other delicious options out there waiting to be discovered. I really don’t want them to become complacent, but that’s exactly what our breakfast routine is becoming.

3. Foster Independence

Remember when we would fill our kids’ highchair trays with different foods so they could choose what they wanted? Even if that meant they created their own weird fruit and cookie concoction! I think breakfast could be more adventurous now too. Next time they ask for cereal, I’ll set them up with a bowl, some milk, and let them explore all the different boxes to create their own ultimate super-cereal.

4. Make Fruit Visible

I often ask if they want apples or grapes, but maybe just putting them on the table would do the trick. During winter, I kept a bowl of clementines out, and they would get devoured much quicker than the oranges hiding in the fridge. Kids, like babies, are drawn to what they can see!

5. Join Them at the Table

Honestly, I rarely sit down with them while they eat. I’m always busy doing something else. But taking just ten minutes to share breakfast with them could be a fun way to connect. Plus, I won’t have to spoon-feed or wipe any dribbles from their chins!

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Summary: Reflecting on the lessons learned from babyhood can enhance our breakfast routines today. Stocking appealing options, incorporating variety, encouraging independence, presenting visible fruit, and sitting down to share meals can all lead to a happier breakfast experience for both kids and parents.