Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (2024)

  • Family
  • Breakfast

By

Brittany Natale

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (1)

There are so many delicious breakfast foods and drinks out there — pancakes, waffles, bagels, cereals, tater tots, chocolate milk — the list is endless. But did you know that there are healthier, cleaner alternatives for some of your child's favorite a.m. treats? Many of these alternatives are packed with nutrients, whole grains, and all-natural ingredients and are free from pesky chemicals and preservatives. A number of these options are also high in fiber and protein, meaning they'll help keep you and your child fuller longer. From cleaner cereals to less-sugary drinks, these healthier breakfast options will help start you and your child's mornings off right!

01

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (2)

Granola Bars: Try Kind Kids Instead

These superdelicious Kind Kids Chewy Granola Bars ($3) have 25 percent less sugar than the leading kids' granola bar. They also are made from 100 percent whole grains, including oats and quinoa, and have zero artificial flavors, preservatives, and sugar alcohols — making them a perfect breakfast treat, especially while on the go!

02

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (4)

Cap'n Crunch: Eat Barbara's Peanut Butter Puffins Instead

Barbara's Peanut Butter Puffins ($4) are made with non-GMO ingredients, are low in fat, and also only have six grams of sugar per serving. Another great fact: each carton is made from 100 percent recycled materials, making this cereal not only better for you but also better for the earth.

Barbara's Peanut Butter PuffinsFrom$4

03

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (6)

Chocolate Milk: Drink Elmhurst Milked Peanuts With Chocolate Instead

Elmhurst Milked Peanuts With Chocolate ($4) is not only incredibly delicious but is also made from simple, clean ingredients like peanuts and Dutch cocoa. Each glass contains eight grams of protein and is also dairy-free, perfect for those looking for a lactose-free alternative to chocolate milk.

04

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (8)

Eggo Waffles: Try Birch Benders Pancake & Waffle Mix Instead

Just add water to ($5), and you'll have healthier, tastier waffles and pancakes in no time! Made with organic flour, this pancake and waffle mix is also dairy-free, cholesterol-free, and fat-free.

05

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (10)

Hash Browns: Eat Kidfresh Potato'n Cauliflower Tots Instead

Kidfresh has done it again. With Kidfresh Potato'n Cauliflower Tots ($3), you can expect not only a delicious breakfast side but also a healthier, cleaner alternative to the usual greasy, nutrient-lacking breakfast potato. Made with shredded russet potatoes, cauliflower, and a bit of parmesan, there are zero artificial flavors or ingredients, zero synthetic colors, and zero preservatives. These tots are also a great source of vitamin C!

06

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (12)

Sugary Juices: Drink Once Upon a Farm Storybook Super Smoothies Instead

With flavors such as Apple Eating Greens, Strawberry Banana Swirl, and Apple Blueberry, Once Upon a Farm Storybook Super Smoothies ($3) are a great alternative to traditionally sugar-packed juices. These smoothies are cold-pressed and dairy-free and contain no added sugar. They can easily be packed or taken along for a car ride for a wholesome breakfast on the go.

Once Upon a Farm Storybook Super SmoothiesFrom$3

07

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (14)

Yogurt With All the Toppings: Eat Siggi's Simple Sides Instead

If your child loves yogurt with all the toppings, then Siggi's Simple Sides (available at your local grocery store) may become their healthier go-to. These let you add in simple, healthier toppings — such as dried coconut, dried figs, and cacao nibs — for a nourishing, wholesome snack or breakfast.

08

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (15)

Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal: Eat Earnest Eats Pro: Protein & Probiotic Oatmeal, Mighty Maple Instead

Earnest Eats Pro: Protein & Probiotic Oatmeal, Mighty Maple ($3) definitely offers more than just any other oatmeal. Packed with 16 grams of protein per serving, this oatmeal also contains probiotics for gut health.

09

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (17)

Egg McMuffin: Eat Handsome Brook Farm Organic, Pasture Raised Eggs Instead

Skip the fast-food lines and instead make your own rendition of an Egg McMuffin at home using Handsome Brook Farm Organic, Pasture Raised Eggs ($7). While many farms have thousands of birds stuffed into houses or cages, Handsome Brook Farm has at least 108 square feet per bird on rotated pastures, so you get the best-tasting and most humane eggs.

Handsome Brook Farm Organic, Pasture Raised EggsFrom$7

10

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (19)

Butter and White Toast: Eat Lundberg Organic Thin Stackers Instead

Lundberg Organic Thin Stackers ($3) are organic and made from whole grains. Whether you eat them alone or pair them with nut butter or fruit, they make a healthy addition to any breakfast.

11

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (21)

Honey Bunches of Oats: Eat Bob's Red Mill Honey Oat Granola Instead

Bob's Red Mill Honey Oat Granola ($4) is a delicious, wholesome morning snack or meal, complete with 36 grams of whole grains per serving. Whether served in a bowl with milk or packed in a baggie for a quick breakfast, this granola is sure to be a big hit.

Bob's Red Mill Honey Oat GranolaFrom$4

12

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (23)

Cocoa Pebbles: Eat Mom's Best Cereals Crispy Cocoa Rice Instead

Mom's Best Cereals Crispy Cocoa Rice ($4) is not only gluten-free but also has zero artificial flavors or preservatives.

Mom's Best Cereals Crispy Cocoa RiceFrom$4

13

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (25)

Go-Gurts and Squeeze Packs: Eat Munk Pack Oatmeal Fruit Squeezes Instead

If you're a fan of Go-Gurts and squeeze packs, then you should instead try the healthier Munk Pack Oatmeal Fruit Squeezes ($2). Made from all-natural ingredients, including oatmeal and fruit, these oatmeal fruit squeezes are totally plant-based and contain nothing artificial. The pouches are also BPA-free, making them a healthier option all around!

Munk Pack Oatmeal Fruit SqueezesFrom$2

14

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (27)

Fruit Loops: Eat Cascadian Farm Fruitful O's Instead

Cascadian Farms Fruitful O's ($3) are a perfect substitute to Fruit Loops. Made from natural fruit flavors, each serving is high in fiber and protein.

Cascadian Farms Fruitful O'sFrom$3

15

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (29)

Peanut Butter and White Bread Sandwiches: Eat Nature Valley Biscuits With Almond Butter Instead

If you and your little one love nut butter sandwiches, then you'll love Nature Valley Biscuits With Almond Butter ($3). With 14 grams of whole grain in each serving, these convenient biscuit sandwiches will not only satisfy hunger but also give you a boost of energy!

16

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (31)

Pop-Tarts: Eat Annie's Organic Toaster Pastries Instead

If you love Pop-Tarts, then you should give Annie's Organic Toaster Pastries ($3) a try. Naturally flavored and made from certified organic ingredients, these toaster pastries contain no artificial flavors, synthetic colors, or preservatives.

Annie's Organic Toaster PastriesFrom$3

17

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (33)

Sugary Lemonade or Juice: Drink Honest Kids Berry Berry Good Lemonade Instead

If your child is a lemonade or juice fan, then they'll love Honest Kids Berry Berry Good Lemonade ($13 for a pack of 32). This organic juice drink is a great alternative to traditional packaged juices as it contains 1/2 the sugar of leading kids' juice drinks, contains no artificial sweeteners, and is USDA Organic certified.

Honest Kids Berry Berry Good LemonadeFrom$13

18

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (35)

Cream Cheese: Eat Daiya Cream Cheese Instead

Daiya Cream Cheese (available at your local grocery store) is free from many common allergens — such as dairy, egg, soy, and gluten — making it a great healthy alternative for those with allergies or sensitive stomachs or those following plant-based diets.

19

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (36)

Bagels: Try Ozery Bakery Morning Rounds Instead

Ozery Bakery Morning Rounds ($36 for six packs with six rounds each) are not only delicious but also free of artificial preservatives, low in fat, and full of whole grains.

Ozery Bakery Morning RoundsFrom$36

20

Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (38)

Packaged Breakfast Muffins: Eat Kodiak Cakes Minute Muffins Instead

These Kodiak Cakes Minute Muffins ($14 for a pack of 12) are perfect for any child who's a fan of the breakfast muffin. They're made of 100 percent whole grains and all-natural ingredients, and all you have to do is add some water, stir, pop in the microwave for one minute, and enjoy!

Kodiak Cakes Minute MuffinsFrom$14
  • Breakfast
  • Food News
  • Kid Food
  • Healthy Breakfasts
Eat This, Not That: 20 Healthy Breakfast Alternatives Your Kids Will Still Totally Love (2024)

FAQs

What happened to children who eat a healthy breakfast everyday? ›

Kids who eat breakfast tend to eat healthier overall and are more likely to be physically active — two great ways to help maintain a healthy weight. Skipping breakfast can make kids feel tired, restless, or irritable. In the morning, their bodies need to refuel for the day ahead.

What is the healthiest breakfast to eat? ›

The healthiest breakfast foods include a protein, healthy fat and source of carbohydrates, according to Smolen. For a healthy breakfast, consider eating foods like oatmeal with nut butter, avocado toast with an egg, chia seed pudding or a greek yogurt parfait with nuts and berries.

What is a healthy breakfast for a 13 year old? ›

Healthy breakfast options include porridge, oats, muesli, rice, vegetables, low-sugar wholegrain cereal, boiled eggs, omelettes, wholegrain toast, fruit and yoghurt.

What should a 11 year old make for breakfast? ›

Breakfast Ideas

French toast, waffles, or pancakes (try wheat or whole-grain varieties) cold cereal and milk. hot cereal, such as oatmeal or cream of wheat (try some dried fruit or nuts on top) whole-grain toast, bagel, or English muffin with cheese.

Are pancakes healthy? ›

Pancakes or waffles

Despite their tasty profile, these comfort foods are often made with refined white flour and topped with butter and syrup, which is essentially pure sugar. This means that pancakes and waffles are high in calories, fat, and sugar, yet lacking in protein and fiber.

What two things can you not eat for breakfast? ›

Answer: Lunch and Dinner!

Is it OK for kids to skip breakfast? ›

Kids who skip breakfast seem to be more likely to develop metabolic conditions such as high blood sugar, increased blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol levels and extra fat in the waist. These conditions increase the risk of diabetes, stroke and heart disease.

Is cereal healthy? ›

Eating wholegrain cereal foods (especially those with fibre from oats or barley) is associated with protective effects against heart disease in adults. Studies have shown that a high intake of wholegrains (at least 2.5 serves per day) is associated with lower risk of cardiovascular events.

What makes a healthy breakfast? ›

fresh fruits and raw nuts. wholemeal, wholegrain or sourdough toast, or English muffins or crumpets with baked beans, poached or boiled eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, spinach, salmon, cheese, avocado or a couple of teaspoons of spreads such as hummus or 100% nut pastes (such as peanut or almond butter)

What is a healthy breakfast when you're not hungry? ›

Examples include a sliced hard boiled egg and hummus on whole grain toast; peanut butter / almond butter and sliced fruit on whole grain toast; plain yogurt with fruit and nuts; and oats made with milk (dairy or nut-based) and topped with fruit and nuts.

What happens when you eat breakfast everyday? ›

People who regularly eat breakfast are less likely to be overweight or obese. Research is ongoing as to why this is the case. It is thought that eating breakfast may help you control your weight because: it prevents large fluctuations in your blood glucose levels, helping you to control your appetite.

Do children who eat a healthy breakfast perform better in school? ›

The Many Benefits of School Breakfast

Making sure every child has eaten a healthy breakfast is an important but often overlooked tool to boost academic performance: Children who skip breakfast are less able to master the tasks necessary to do well in school.

Are children who eat breakfast less likely to be overweight? ›

The results of this meta-analysis showed that children and adolescents who skipped breakfast had a significantly higher prevalence of obesity or overweight than those who ate breakfast (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.33–1.90; P < 0.001).

What is most likely to happen to children who skip breakfast? ›

Skipping breakfast can lead to weight gain, as children may be more likely to make poor food choices later in the day. Eating a healthy breakfast can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Carlyn Walter

Last Updated:

Views: 6529

Rating: 5 / 5 (50 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Carlyn Walter

Birthday: 1996-01-03

Address: Suite 452 40815 Denyse Extensions, Sengermouth, OR 42374

Phone: +8501809515404

Job: Manufacturing Technician

Hobby: Table tennis, Archery, Vacation, Metal detecting, Yo-yoing, Crocheting, Creative writing

Introduction: My name is Carlyn Walter, I am a lively, glamorous, healthy, clean, powerful, calm, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.