The Typical French Breakfast for Children
For many French families, the morning meal, or le petit déjeuner, is a simple and quick affair compared to the more substantial lunch and dinner later in the day. This approach carries over to children's breakfast, where the focus is on a few core items, with the drinks playing a central role. The most common drinks for kids are a warm and comforting classic, plain milk, and a refreshing glass of juice.
The Allure of Chocolat Chaud
The undisputed champion of French children's breakfast drinks is chocolat chaud, or hot chocolate. This isn't just a weekend treat; it's a weekday staple for many. The ritual often involves a special breakfast bowl, rather than a mug, allowing children to dip their bread or croissant into the warm, chocolatey goodness. The hot chocolate is typically made by stirring a cocoa powder, with brands like Nesquik being particularly common, into warm milk. Its creamy, rich flavor provides a comforting start to the day, though it is important to remember it's a sweet indulgence.
The Versatility of Milk
For children who prefer a less sweet option, plain milk is another popular choice. Depending on the child’s preference and the meal, milk can be served warm or cold. It is the perfect accompaniment for a bowl of breakfast cereal, a growing trend among French children, especially in urban areas. The simplicity of milk ensures it pairs well with a variety of breakfast foods, from cereals to toast.
A Splash of Refreshing Fruit Juice
A glass of fruit juice is a fixture on the French breakfast table. For kids, orange juice, or jus d'orange, is the most common variety. Many French supermarkets even offer machines for freshly squeezed juice, a testament to its popularity. Other options like apple juice (jus de pomme) or grapefruit juice are also enjoyed. The juice provides a dose of vitamins and a contrasting freshness to the hot, creamy drinks.
Paired with Breakfast Foods
The drinks are only one part of the petit déjeuner. They are traditionally paired with simple, carbohydrate-heavy foods:
- Tartines: Slices of fresh baguette, often with butter and jam, are a classic choice for dipping into a bowl of hot chocolate or coffee (for adults).
- Cereals: The influence of international breakfast culture means that cereals with milk are now a common sight on French breakfast tables.
- Viennoiseries: Pastries like croissants and pains au chocolat are typically reserved for special occasions or weekend treats, not an everyday occurrence.
- Yogurt and Fruit: For a healthier and more modern twist, some children might have a side of yogurt or fresh fruit.
French Breakfast: A Cross-Cultural Comparison
Compared to breakfast traditions in countries like the UK or the US, the French children's breakfast is noticeably different. Where American and English breakfasts are often large, hearty, and sometimes savory, the French version is light, sweet, and focused on preparing for the main midday meal.
| Drink | Typical Occasion | Paired With | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chocolat Chaud | Weekdays and Weekends | Tartines, Croissants | Often served in a bowl for dipping; a sweet classic. |
| Milk (Lait) | Weekdays, with Cereals | Cereal, Biscuits | Can be served hot or cold; a versatile and simple choice. |
| Fruit Juice | Weekdays and Weekends | Any of the above | Orange juice is most popular; adds a fresh, fruity element. |
Conclusion
In summary, the drinks that fuel French children's mornings are a blend of simple tradition and modern convenience. While the comforting warmth of chocolat chaud and the simple goodness of milk remain stalwarts, the refreshing zest of fruit juice offers a vibrant alternative. Accompanied by bread, pastries, or cereals, these beverages form the foundation of a light, sweet, and characteristically French start to the day. It is this balance of tradition and evolving tastes that defines what French children drink for breakfast today.
Explore more about French breakfast culture here.
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