Your child’s packed lunch is one of the most important things you can put into their bag every morning – apart from their school books of course!
Without proper food, they can struggle to concentrate and focus, making school a lot harder than it really should be.
But ensuring the kids have something good and tasty to eat every day can be exhausting and boring; there are only so many sandwiches a mum can make before things start to get a little repetitive.
But no more!
The following seven tips will ensure your little ones open their lunchbox in delight not dread at what concoction you thought you’d try that day!
1. Think healthy snacking
Instead of giving your kids a small bar of chocolate for their little lunch, throw in a few chopped carrots, peppers and even grapes. They are perfect for when the kids only have a few minutes to eat, and will be WAY more beneficial than something sweet.
2. Wraps are your friend
Wraps are better at holding more substantial things than just a slice of ham, so fill them with the leftover chicken stir fry or Bolognese. But if eating leftover dinner doesn’t appeal to your little one, why not try to make a turkey or cheese roll – fun to eat and easy to prepare.
3. Only give them what you want them to eat
If is easy to fill your kid’s lunch box to the brim, for fear they will go hungry – often throwing in a scone or bar just in case they don’t like what you give them. Instead, only give them food you want them to eat and leave everything else out. They are less likely to come home with uneaten food and you will also be guaranteed they have had something substantial to eat.
4. Leave the juice carton for a weekend treat
Keep your little one hydrated by popping a frozen bottle of water into their lunchbox. Not only will this mean they will have a chilled drink throughout the day, but the frozen bottle will keep whatever food they have fresh and cool. Also, what kids wouldn't love having a frozen bottle of water to watch melt! And for kids who really aren't fans of water, pop in a lemon or a lime to add a little flavour.
5. Think homemade
A homemade biscuit or cookie is a lot better than a store bought one: you know exactly what's in it and you can reduce the sugar content as much as you like. But you don't have to just restrict yourself to sweet treats, think breakfast bars, muffins, bread and whatever you'd like them to see eating. Whether you're a Mary Berry in the kitchen or not, these snacks are easy and quick to make - and are a fun weekend activity that the whole family can do together.
