Back To School Lunches

 Kids are finally getting back to the classroom. That means some schools will allow lunches which can be daunting to parents. The main question is what to pack? Sandwiches or a Bento box full of cut veggies and fruits. 

Keep in mind the little ones have been eating what you've been eating for the last year. That may be fast food , leftovers or freshly made hot lunches. Grade schoolers may not like the idea of a sandwich after a year of chicken nuggets and Happy Meals. They will warm to fun shaped sandwiches and fun snacks. Think about buying sandwich shapers that comes in such molds as trains, cats, flowers and hearts.As far as snacks , try to get healthy ones instead of potato chips. If they do insist on chips then try Sensible Portions Sea Salt veggie chips. These look like Pringles but are a bit healthier being made with spinach , broccoli and peas in a potato based chips. These tasty chips can only be found at Target although you can find their veggie straws in your local grocery. These also come in different flavors like ranch, barbecue and sea salt. The company even makes apple straws which make for a nice dessert instead of cookies.  Should you send leftovers to school?  Yes, if there's access to a microwave. Just keep the portions manageable.

A healthy lunch is always a good idea too. Bento boxes work well for this.if you're new to them, you can buy them at your local Target.Amazon has a wide selection too. They are microwavable and usually come with a spork.  What to put into them? Nut butters are a great idea but be careful with these. Your kid may not suffer from nut allergies but their friends could have them.If that's the case then think of cream cheese with riced veggies like cauliflower and broccoli mixed in.Half a bagel with cream cheese is another good idea. Mini sandwiches are also good. Use whole wheat or whole grain bread filled with turkey or chicken. Manageable cut veggies like carrots or celery sticks are a crunchy fun side that kids will like. As far as sweet nibbles, toss in a few grapes or sliced strawberries. You can also give them some blueberries and for an absolute eye opener gooseberries. These last are becoming popular again and their tart unusual flavor will definitely make them the talk of the classroom. You could throw in some chocolate for a sugar burst. Two or three Hershey Kisses are always a nice end but you could also M&M's or Andes Mints too.

Schools are reopening again. It's time to hone those lunchbox skills with interesting sandwiches and sides. make them fun. Make them tasty. Make them desirable so that kids will gobble them up.