Kids (and adults) who eat breakfast have better overall nutrition, fewer weight problems, and better cognitive performance throughout the day. Cereals are convenient and can be a good source of whole grains. Served with milk and fruit, the lower-sugar varieties can be part of a well-balanced, nuritious kids' breakfast.

If you or your children can’t make the switch to a low-sugar cereal, try using smaller bowls or single-serving sizes to limit overpouring. When shopping for cereal, "make children a part of the decision-making," says Marilyn Tanner-Blasiar, a registered dietitian and a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. "You want to pick a cereal that they’ll actually eat."