Posted by Grier Cooper on Aug.24, 2010

ⓒ iStockPhoto - gmnicholas

It’s a school night and you are cleaning out your child’s lunchbox so it’s ready to go in the morning, only to realize that almost none of it was eaten. Some days it may feel pointless packing your child a lunch at all. The problem is that lunchtime is also playtime at school. Lunch needs to be a non-fussy affair so kids can get on with the business of playing with friends. Really, they don’t eat; they graze. Therefore, the lunches that get eaten are both appealing and easy to eat. Think “quick, healthy eats”, and offer a variety each day, and you will see a difference. Your success rate will be even higher if you go shopping with your child and have them help in the selection process. They will be emotionally invested in the choices they make, and the lunchbox will come back emptier (if not completely empty).

Finger food is king in the lunchbox world. Begin with a hearty main dish, such as a wrap. The outside wrapper can be a tortilla or flavored wrap, or try an Asian Fusion version, using a rice wrapper to hold the ingredients together. Fill with your favorite protein option, such as tofu strips, shrimp or chicken strips, topped with thinly-sliced cucumber, carrots, chopped lettuce and sprouts. Another easy option is a burrito filled with beans and cheese and topped with extras, such as avocado.

Finish your healthy, well-rounded lunch plan by adding additional finger foods. Fresh fruit is always a hit, so add berries, grapes, or slice up your child’s favorite fruits (they are much more likely to get eaten). Seaweed strips are a great source of minerals, and sprouts of all kinds are usually well received. Pea sprouts became all the rage this summer in the local seven-and-under crowd. Other kid-friendly sprouts include alfalfa, sunflower, bean and lentil. Nuts of all types or trail mix will keep your child’s energy going strong. Lastly, consider chopped veggies with humus.

Pack your smorgasbord in small, reusable containers. Be sure to pack a water bottle, so kids stay hydrated. This is extremely important at the beginning of the school year when it’s hot outside, and it doesn’t hurt to remind your children to drink frequently throughout the day.

Packing the right kind of lunch will not only make your child happier at lunchtime, it will make your life easier, and cut down on prep time. Get ready: the taste of success is going to be sweet.

Share

Posted under Food Facts, Food, Nutrition & Recipes, GDM Kids, Tweens, Teens.