Värk recommends playful breakfasts to encourage young children to eat

Food blogger and cookbook author Ragne Värk told ERR’s Vikerhommik radio programme that playful choices can encourage young children to eat breakfast properly.

She said breakfast should be simple but filling, containing protein, carbohydrates and fibre. For younger children, porridge can be made more engaging by offering a choice of toppings in separate bowls, such as bananas, berries, nuts, seeds, uncooked jam or even marshmallows.

“They get the feeling that they can make breakfast exciting for themselves. Then the porridge goes down much more easily,” Värk said.

She added that parents should ensure children do not eat only the toppings. “The condition is that the bowl should still be eaten empty,” she said.

Breakfasts are more difficult to plan for young teenagers, Värk said, as they already have their own preferences and may also be influenced by food trends on social media. She suggested colourful yoghurt bowls and smoothie bowls, as well as different egg dishes, which can be served in appealing ways.

Food should not be forced, however, and choices should be discussed with the child, she said.

Older teenagers generally have large appetites, so the main challenge is often finding time to eat in the morning. Värk suggested preparing a snack to take along or setting aside time for breakfast. Because their energy needs are high, a more substantial meal could include porridge, eggs or filling sandwiches.

Children of all ages should receive nutritious food and avoid an overly one-sided diet, Värk said. If breakfast is skipped at home, their daytime diet may become dominated by bread-based foods, making it important to plan meals and discuss them with the child.