Soon the first bells will ring announcing the beginning of school.

Children, parents and teachers are all excited about it. Some children are so excited that they are not conscious of their surroundings – including ongoing traffic. Let’s remember to slow it down when we see children walking or running around their schools and along the streets – especially in the mornings and after school.

Also, be mindful of school buses that have flashing lights on and are standing still with the STOP sign displayed, in the middle of the street or road. This usually means they are picking up or letting children off the bus. Remember, all lanes of traffic (going both ways) should come to a full stop. This simple act can save precious lives.

Back-to-school nutrition

A B C. It’s as easy, as 1 2 3. It’s back-to- school time for you and me kids.

Every year about this time, this happy little ditty runs through my mind because it is time for school to start. The following is an article I found interesting and educational. The article is written by two Nebraska Extension Educators, Allyssa Havloric and Jessica Meuleners. They are speaking on the importance of embracing good nutrition especially now as we go back to school.

The month of August means back to school for many children. Families will spend time shopping for new clothes and school supplies. However, how many families spend time planning for what they will eat every day? From hectic mornings, packing lunches, carpooling to after school activities, getting a family meal on the table in the evening, to finishing homework, the days can become long and busy. You may start to wonder how you will ever feed your family a healthy meal. Here are some quick tips and tricks to feeding your family during some of the most hectic days by Nebraska’s Extension Educators Allyssa Havloric and Jessica Meuleners

Hectic-free breakfasts

Many families find it hard to make breakfast and get out of the house on time to make it to school. Children who eat breakfast tend to concentrate better in the classroom, are more likely to maintain a healthy weight, and will get the energy they need to make it through the day.

The key to a healthy breakfast is balance. Try to include at least three food groups into your breakfast, such as a lean protein, whole grains, a fruit or vegetable and milk. See (the “On-the-Go Breakfast Ideas” at the bottom of this article).

Healthy breakfast staples to have on-hand include eggs, yogurt, whole grain cereal (choose low-sugar varieties), oatmeal, fruit (fresh, canned or frozen), whole wheat bread and low-fat milk. A great way to save time in the morning is to prepare breakfast foods on the weekend. This will save you a few extra minutes during the week as you’re rushing out the door.

Smart snacks for after school

Many families don’t eat dinner until 2–3 hours after school gets out, so children may come home needing a snack. You want to find the right sized snack that will satisfy those hunger cues but not be large enough to prevent your child from being hungry for dinner. Including two food groups (one being a fruit or vegetable) will help keep your child energized but not overly full. Snack time is the perfect opportunity to have some fun, experiment with new foods and include foods your child may not be getting enough of at meals. Having fresh fruits and vegetables already washed and cut make an easy snack choice. Try carrots and celery sticks with a side of hummus or serve an apple with a tablespoon of peanut butter. Trail mix with whole grains, nuts and dried fruit is another simple and healthy option.

Meal planning and preparation

Starting the week with a plan of five to seven healthy meals that everyone in your family enjoys will take the stress out of family mealtime. Begin by choosing a main entree, such as baked chicken or tacos, then add a vegetable and/or fruit side. Be sure to include foods from all five food groups (fruits, vegetables, protein foods, grains and dairy) when planning your meals.

Watch for sales on frozen or canned vegetables and fruits, or other staples like rice and pasta to keep your pantry stocked with healthy foods. Shopping for seasonal produce is a great way to save some money and add variety to your meals. When cooking beef or poultry, double or triple the batch to use in another dish the next day (tacos, casseroles, stir-fry, etc.) or freeze for future use.

Get the whole family involved in meal planning and preparation. Allow your children to help make their lunches and snacks each week and let family members help choose the meals you will eat together. Mealtime does not have to be just one person’s responsibility. When more family members play a role in getting a meal on the table, it makes for a more enjoyable experience and less pressure on you. Assign age-appropriate tasks such as setting the table, preparing the salad, and even helping with the dishes and clean up

Studies suggest children who eat with their families are less likely to be over-weight, eat more fruits and vegetables, have higher self-esteem, improved grades and a lower incidence of depression. Make family mealtime a priority and take advantage of the time with your children.  Ask children to share how their day was, what they are learning in school and share events from your day. Mealtime is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your children and bring your family closer together. *Here are some great “On the Go Breakfast Ideas” you and your family can enjoy from: our Source: NEBline: Allyssa Havloric, MS, RDN, and Jessica Meuleners, MS, RDN:

• Fruit and yogurt parfait,

• Egg and cheese on an English muffin,

• Bagel topped with yogurt and fruit

• Overnight Eggs or a veggie omelet

• Granola bars

• Milk or a breakfast shake

• Glass of milk or a breakfast shake

• Overnight  oatmeal with Greek yogurt and berries

• Small whole wheat bagel with peanut butter, a banana, and a glass of skim or low-fat milk.