One of the best ways to get your child interested in their school lunch is to include them in choosing their lunch foods and getting them involved in food preparation. You’ve likely tried this before by asking them what they want in their lunch only to have requests for low nutrient quality foods or hearing, “I don’t know”. Instead of asking “What do you want in your lunch?", ask “Would you like A or B in your lunch?”. Give small choices but involve them in the planning process. You might find they help give you more ideas for future lunches. Make a list or chart of favourite lunch foods from each food group and ask which items they would like in their lunches for the following week; this will help streamline groceries. By having your child help prepare and pack their lunch, you can use the time to discuss the importance of good nutrition for growing bodies and learning minds.
Tip #3: Fun lunch ideas
Popcorn, hard boiled or deviled egg, fruit & yogurt parfait, veggies & dip, homemade granola bar, milk to drink.
Tuna melt or grilled cheese & ham sandwich (cut into bite-sized pieces), yogurt drink, sliced apple, small green salad with dressing, small homemade high fibre muffin.
Tortellini/Ravioli skewer (alternate pasta with cheese, cubed chicken, grape tomatoes, olives, mushrooms or peppers), yogurt or rice pudding, fruit salad, dry cereal, water to drink.
Chicken/beef (with black beans) & cheese quesadilla (serve with a small container of salsa & sour cream), fruit, veggies, pretzels, milk to drink.
Taco dip (seasoned, cooked taco meat combined with shredded cheese, chopped tomatoes, salsa and sour cream) with tortilla chips or wrap, fruit kabob, veggies, yogurt, mini bagel, water to drink.