some new and exciting research on the effects of breakfast and learning, is lending more support for modelling breakfast in our homes.

Studies have shown that there are physical changes that take place in eating breakfast. Food turns to glucose, which fuels the brain and muscles. This leads to better memory of new material recently learned, which is beneficial in getting children to remember information for taking tests. The ability to manage taxing problems improves with eating breakfast. This skill helps children solve math word problems. Creative thinking is more active in breakfast eaters than in non breakfast eaters. Creative and unique thinking abilities are assets when children perform tasks in English, writing and recitation. Lastly, children eating breakfast have improved physical endurance.

Helping teachers teach; by insisting children attend school with breakfast, is not just an individual or school concern, but also an Island concern. We must assist our children in the pursuit of education. We must help them obtain the necessary tools in becoming productive citizens.

Children eating breakfast receive a greater amount of vitamins and minerals than those who skip. Study results suggest that children missing the morning meal, never catch up with their breakfast eating counterparts in terms of nutrient consumption -- their energy intake, in particular, remains low for the remainder of the day. Therefore, breakfast is very important to children who are malnourished and need to catch up to others in their growth. A child is more likely to continue to eat breakfast if they see their parents eat breakfast. Children model what they see.

Busy parents and caregivers, looking for ways to regain control of their family life can claim breakfast as a time to be together with their children.

It is a great time for families to check schedules, share words of advice or discuss an upcoming event. To make breakfast run smoothly; include the routine of getting clothes, lunches and schoolwork ready the night before. Go to bed early and get up early, to have time for breakfast. Eliminate interference by turning off the television during the meal. Create a pleasant atmosphere for eating by including everyone in the conversation. Be mindful of comments and criticisms that can shape a child's image or view of healthy body weight.

Eat the same food your children eat, unless there is a reason why you cannot.

Do not forget to explain the reason to the children. Allow them to participate in food selection and preparation. Allow them to choose what and how much to eat from the healthy choices you provide. Respect their individual taste preferences. Restricting favourite foods can cause anxiety and may lead to overeating if your child fears being deprived of the food. Be aware of portion sizes. Give small portions, and assure them they can have more if they want.

Some menu ideas may include: ready to eat cereals, milk, yoghurt, juice, fruit, bread, bagels, vegetable muffins, French toast, breakfast burritos, egg substitutes, baked potato, soup, left over pizza or chicken. It's not what you eat, but when you eat it that makes it breakfast. Your body is happy as long as it is getting food for energy, growth, strength and health.

Children's nutrition is no small issue. There is no better time than the early years to make an impact on the lifelong eating habits that can contribute to better school performance, health maintenance and disease prevention. So, let breakfast be modelled in your home! April is Nutrition Month. Look for a nutrition surprise on the MarketPlace grocery bags, a Harbour Night Nutrition Booth featuring snacks and recipes, as well as other Nutrition related events during Nutrition Week, April 27-May 3, 1997.

Department of Health Nutrition Services Mellonie Barnum R.D.

GOVERNMENT GVT