Healthy School Lunch Ideas

As the school year approaches here in Minnesota, we know there are quite a few moms pondering and planning what they will be making for their kids’ lunches. Some children will be going back to school in classrooms, others will be learning online and some will be home schooled. Whichever option your children engage in, here are a few tips and ideas on how to prepare healthy lunches:

1. 1. 1. Keep it Simple:  Kids’ favorite meals are often the most simple meals.  Keep that in mind when making your kids’ lunches.  A simple serving of fruit (apples, oranges, cantaloupe, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries), a veggie (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, cucumbers, celery, peas, radishes) and a main dish (Tuna salad wrap pg 197, Shredded Chicken Buritto Bowl, Taco Dip, Soup or your favorite leftovers!) will round out your child’s meal nicely.
         

         

   Stanley Adventure Vacuum Food Jar, Stainless Steel, 18 oz

   1. 1. 1. Variety is Key:  Change up the menu every day by changing out one or more of the items in their lunch.  Giving your kids a variety of options will also help give them a variety of nutrients as well.
         2. Let the kids take ownership:  Typically around 1st or 2nd grade, kids will embrace the opportunity to pack or make their own meals.  Discuss with them the nutritional benefits of different foods and then let them make their selection.
         3. Pay attention to what comes home:  It’s important to check your child’s lunchbox everyday to see what they left behind and ask why.

   But what happens when you get the lunch box blahs?

   You start out the school year strong, organized, well-planned, and ready to go…but then the third week hits and you’re just barely getting by.  You’re not alone!  Before the school year starts (or whenever you have a free moment) prepare yourself to avoid the lunch box blahs:

   1. 1. 1. Prepare quick grab items (granola, pumpkin seeds, etc.)
         2. Choose fruits and veggies that don’t have to be sliced (grapes, blueberries, strawberries, peas etc.)
         3. Stock up on quick grab items.  Go to the grocery store and purchase some healthy quick grab items (nuts, raisins, dried cranberries, trail mix).  Read the labels—the fewer ingredients normally means the food is less processed.
         4. Give yourself grace.  Raising a family and feeding them nutritious meals are not always easy things to do, and not always possible.  If you’ve fallen off the bandwagon for a bit, don’t give up!  Make the changes you can and slowly work your way back to healthy lunches.

   Looking for our lunchbox recommendation?  We’d recommend the PlanetBox lunch box, click on the picture to find out more. (Affiliate Link)
   
   Questions?  Ideas?  We’re here to help!  Contact us!