With the school year back in swing, providing nutritious lunches is more important than ever. Getting kids to eat a healthy lunch may seem difficult, but there are simple ways to help them on the right track. Here are a few tips for packing a lunchbox that your kids are sure to love!
Pack easy to eat foods. Lunch time goes by fast, and eating quickly is a must. Finger foods are great, as foods requiring cutlery may be too much work for younger students. Cut sandwiches into halves or quarters for easy handling, and peel and cut fruits in the morning. (Except apples-- leave these whole to avoid the slices turning brown.)
Use easy-to-open containers. What’s easy for you to open may be difficult for little fingers. Your child could be skipping parts of their lunch simply because they can’t get to the food. Have your kids test food containers, wrappers, and their lunchbox to insure they can easily open them without help.
Minimise mess. Kids can be picky eaters, refusing to eat foods for trivial of reasons. If your child’s lunch often comes home untouched, the mess factor may be to blame. Avoid sticky or soggy foods that might turn off fussy eaters. Remove the seeds from tomatoes when making sandwiches, and drain any excess water from fruits. Pack some wipes or paper serviettes to help your child clean up after their meal.
Add variety. You don’t enjoy eating the same boring lunch every day, and neither do your kids! Introducing colourful fruits and vegetables, different cheeses, or new breads can help children get excited about healthy eating. Even the pickiest eaters welcome simple surprises, like cutting sandwiches or cheese slices into fun shapes.
Use an insulated lunchbox. Certain foods need to be kept cold, or you run the risk of upset tummies in the evening. Meat, eggs, yoghurt, cheese and milk should all be kept cool. If your child doesn’t have access to refrigeration at school, use a well-insulated lunchbox and freezer packs to help keep food fresh.
Don’t forget a treat. Nutritious foods should make up most of your child’s lunch, but an occasional treat is a fun surprise! End the week by hiding a homemade cookie or brownie under their sandwich. This is sure to bring a smile to your kids’ faces!
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About Author: Momentum Life is a leading provider of Life insurance and Funeral insurance in New Zealand.
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