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It’s back to school and work – what can I pack for lunch?
This was a week! Not only are the kids heading back but summer is already over – the beginning of another school year. In my house, it is back to packing lunches nightly — three of them — something I took a break from over the summer months! Boy was that nice.
No need to worry though about what to pack! There are so many choices that whether you are making a lunch for your kids or you (my trick is I pack my lunch at the same time), making lunch can be quick and easy. The hard part is making sure the choices are things your kids enjoy and will eat! For some of us, easier said than done…..
Here are few item hints of what foods to include:
• Whole fruit (berries, apples, banana) or fruit cups (natural juice)
• Cut up carrots or veggies in small baggies/containers
• Trail mix (dried fruit/cereal mix – trick, make it up in a big container with leftover cereal you have)
• Cheese sticks or cut up cheese slices
• Yogurt cups or on the go types; cottage cheese
• Sandwiches on whole grain bread, tortillas (wrap-ups) or pita pockets
• Whole grain bagels, waffles, or pancakes – not just for breakfast!
• Deli roll-ups with low fat cheese
• Cut up chicken strips
• Cold Pizza slice
• Left-over meals from night before (can’t get any easier!)
• Water!
Think simple and fun. Kids love things colorful and that have shape. Pick bright foods (i.e. red, orange, green fruits and vegetables) and make them take shape (using cookie cutters, kitchen gadgets, etc.) – much more fun to eat that way.
The same goes with adult lunches. Prepping is the key. Just like having your child’s lunch prepared, the same goes for us. If it is made and something we like, we are more inclined to eat and enjoy it – helps to keep us on track and not splurging on other non-nutritious foods at lunchtime.
Remember – you are what you eat – or in this case, pack!
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