Released September 9, 2009

FOND DU LAC, Wisc. -- Many Wisconsin families and school age children are reviewing their back-to-school supply lists. Pencils, notebooks, bookbag: check. And don't forget to add another item: breakfast, eaten at home or at school.

Research shows that breakfast is an integral component of academic success. "The benefits of eating breakfast consistently are many," says Julia E. Salomon, family living program specialist with the University of Wisconsin-Extension.

"There is evidence that children who eat breakfast perform better academically and have fewer behavior and emotional problems," Salomon adds. "All of which help students succeed in school."

In addition to breakfast's contribution to cognitive skills, studies also suggest that children and adults who eat breakfast consistently are less likely to be overweight than those who do not eat breakfast, says Salomon.

Despite the proven benefits, many school age children don't eat breakfast. Lack of time, erratic morning schedules, lack of economic resources, or limited access to healthy foods may contribute to low breakfast consumption for many children and adults in Wisconsin.

"If a school has a school breakfast program, it is a great option for ensuring students have access to a healthy meal before their classes start," says Salomon. Breakfasts served at schools must meet certain nutrient requirements and provide at least one-fourth of a child's daily requirements for calories and other nutrients.

Eating breakfast helps control hunger minimizing the temptation to overeat throughout the day. It also provides the necessary energy sources to the brain, allowing it to function efficiently and fulfilling a key physiological need for good concentration skills.

Across the state, more than 60 percent of schools offer breakfasts serving hot or cold breakfasts to any student who wants to participate in the program. "Contrary to popular belief, the school breakfast program is not just for low income students; anyone regardless of household income can take advantage of eating breakfast at school," says Salomon.

"Knowing if your child's school offers the school breakfast program is good information for parents," she says. "Historically, parents have proven to be very influential in matters of nutrition and school meals. It is not uncommon for a school to start a breakfast program in part because of parental support for it," adds Salomon.

For more information and suggestions on breakfast and school breakfast, contact your county UW-Extension office. The Wisconsin School Breakfast website at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/flp/food/schoolbreakfast/ features information about the benefits of breakfast and school breakfast programs. The Department of Public Instruction School Breakfast website at http://www.dpi.wi.gov/fns/sbp1.html also contains information about Wisconsin’s school breakfast programs.

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http://www.uwex.edu/news/2009/09/want-to-succeed-in-school-eat-breakfast