It is because of my mom that I have such a strong appreciation for healthy eating. She packed the most amazing lunches (sometimes she would even pack double for my best friend) and would often write a little note on my napkin.
If you're feeling less enthused about making lunches, here are a few ways to spruce them up and make them more fun and healthy!
Dip away!
Kids love to dip (my son is living proof!) Make lunch fun by packing veggies with ranch dressing, chips and salsa, sliced apples with yogurt, or pita bread with hummus.
Use color
Want to jazz up your child's lunch? Try packing a lunch using only food items of the same color. It's sure to put a smile on their face!
Accessorize
not
touching!
When I stumbled across La Petite Peach's school lunch accessory guide, I was instantly sold. Everything included in their round-up is so darling, how could your child notwant to eat their lunch?? These bento lunch containers are also very kid-friendly and allow you to pack multiple things without them touching!
Add variety
A PB&J sandwich is good only so many days. If you're stuck in a rut and don't know what to fix for your kids, smallhelpings.com is here to help! With hundreds of kid-tested and approved recipes right at your fingertips, a small monthly fee may be worth it!
Consider the weather
On cold winter days, the last thing your child is going to want for lunch is a cold sandwich. Pack up a thermos full of toasty warm soup, and make their day! When the weather turns warm, make your child's favorite smoothie and pack that in their lunch. If you freeze it beforehand, it should thaw out by lunchtime and be the perfect consistency!
Themes
Jamie Schultz of thislunchrox.com has some of the most creative ideas out there! Her website is full of inspiration on how to create "themed" lunches that are healthy as well.
Don't forget the fruits & veggies!
If you've got a picky eater on your hands, check out this article for 10 ways to add fruits & veggies to your child's lunch. There is bound to be something they'll eat!
Above all, try not to get overwhelmed with the task of sending healthy lunches with your children. A little bit of planning can go a long way (for both your sanity and your child's health!) Also, if you want to try sending a little note in your child's lunch, check out these free printables here, here, and here! (But remember, writing on a napkin does the job too!)
