Improve your School Day: Eat Granola!

Posted by Ruthanne | 0 comments

When nothing seems to be going right, every problem seems too hard or it seems like school will take forever {my children’s words}, this is normally due to something we call the Grouchy Hungries.

I’ve learned the hard way that snacks are an absolute necessity in our home. They are what make or break our school day. Being consistent on snacks means having happier, more productive children.

Some days, we have goldfish or crackers. Other days, I cut up fresh fruit. Sometimes I just plain forget. Only to realize too late, as the grouchiness begins to surface and every assignment in school appears insurmountable.

When I have time, I bake up a large batch of granola. It’s always a hit and easy for them to snack on while still working on academics.

I know there are lots of different granola recipes floating around, but this is one of my favorites. It was given to me several years ago. The ingredients are what you would normally have on hand and I love how simple it is to put together.

(1) Pre-heat oven to 350. Spray a 9×13-inch plan with non-stick spray.

(2) In a large mixing bowl, combine:

1/4 cup wheat flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups rice crispy cereal
2 cups rolled oats
1 cup dried fruit
3/4 cup almonds {or another nut of your choice}

(3) In a saucepan, melt:

1/2 cup butter
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup honey

(4) Add butter mixture to large mixing bowl. Stir until combined. Pour into 9 x 13 inch pan.

(5) Bake 18 – 20 minutes or until golden brown. Take it out half way through and stir it.

Whether you bake up granola or hand out crackers, snacks will have a positive impact on your school day!

Ruthanne has been homeschooling for just over a decade. She’s passionate about many things ~ the Lord, her principal and students (mother to four boys and a girl), photography, baking and really good coffee. You can find her blogging at www.eclecticwhatnot.com where she shares a few random thoughts and loads of pictures.