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For school-aged children, dairy provides essential nutrients that are part of a healthy and balanced diet. For back-to-school season, ensuring your children get enough dairy throughout the day can help them stay energized and focused. Did you know studies have found that dairy supports cognitive function, helping children stay attentive and perform better academically? The versatility of dairy products allows them to be easily incorporated into various meals and snacks throughout the day. Connecticut Dairy provides easy and nutritious tips to incorporate dairy into your child’s daily routine, ensuring they receive the maximum benefits from these nutrient-packed foods.  

The Importance and Role of Dairy for School Success 

Incorporating dairy into your child’s diet is essential for more than just building strong bones. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt provide high-quality protein. Studies show that a breakfast high in protein helps to improve overall school performance, as it helps children stay focused and attentive. Protein will also help them feel full for longer periods of time.  One glass of milk contains 8 grams of high-quality protein, for example.  

Dairy also has many nutrients that can boost the immune system, which is crucial as children encounter more potential germs with the start of the new school year. Lastly, the calcium and vitamin D in dairy are crucial for developing a sturdy skeletal structure, supporting overall physical strength and endurance necessary for daily activities. 

Learn more about how dairy can strengthen your immune system: Can Milk Help Strengthen Your Immune System?  

Consuming the recommended portion of dairy is also important to consider.  For children aged 4-8, that’s 2 ½ servings of dairy per day, and 3 servings per day for children over 9. This helps to ensure they get the necessary nutrients to support overall health, and both physical and mental development. 

Easy Ways to Incorporate Dairy During the Day  

Breakfast: Start the Day Right with Dairy and More  

A breakfast high in protein is important to help your child conquer to school day, and dairy is a great ally to get a kick start on their nutrition. 

– 1. Add milk to cereal for a quick and easy meal packed with essential vitamins and minerals.  

– 2. Smoothies to go can be made quickly by blending milk with fruits and a vegetables and offer a delicious and vitamin-packed option perfect for busy mornings.  

– 3. Yogurt parfaits, layered with granola and fresh fruit, make for a tasty and satisfying breakfast.  

– 4. Additionally, a cheese omelet provides a protein-rich meal that can keep children full and focused throughout the morning. 

Lunch and Snacks: Keep Them Energized with Dairy 

Incorporating dairy into your child’s lunch and snack times can help keep them energized throughout the day.  

– 1. Pack cheese and crackers for an easy and portable snack that provides protein and keeps kids satisfied until their next meal.  

– 2. A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic favorite that’s quick to prepare and loved by kids.  

– 3. Yogurt cups or tubes are a convenient option for school lunches, offering a good source of calcium and protein.  

– 4. String cheese is a fun and easy option that kids can enjoy anytime, providing a quick source of protein. 

After-School Snacks: Refresh and Recharge with Dairy  

After a long day at school, children need snacks that will refresh and recharge them, and dairy is a great option.  

– 1. Dairy-based dips, paired with veggies, provide a tasty and nutritious snack that adds variety to their diet. 

– 2. Fruit and cheese kabobs are fun and colorful, making eating fruit and dairy enjoyable by simply alternating pieces of fruit and cheese on skewers.  

– 3. A caprese salad, made with mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, and basil, offers a refreshing and healthy snack.  

– 4. Frozen yogurt bites, which mix yogurt with berries and are frozen in small portions, provide a cool treat that’s both fun and nutritious.

Learn more about 5 Ways Dairy Helps Students Succeed 

By incorporating dairy into your child’s daily routine, you are setting them up for success both academically and physically. Connecticut Dairy farmers are dedicated to producing fresh, local, and sustainable dairy products that are beneficial for your family’s health. As you prepare for the back-to-school season, remember that dairy can play a vital role in helping your children achieve their goals throughout the day.