The return of the school year is right around the corner and with it comes the age-old question – what to make for lunch?
Here are some ways to make lunchtime a success:
•Involve your child. Get your child involved in the decision making and have him or her help you pack the lunch. This also ensures that he or she will eat what you pack!
•Provide variety. The same old food gets boring day after day, so make sure to mix it up a bit and change what’s in his or her lunchbox every now and then.
•Avoid high-fat, high sugar items. Instead of packing potato chips, opt for vegetables and low-fat dip or fruit instead of fruit cups packed in syrup.
•Drinks count, too. Water, low-fat milk or 100 percent juices are the best options to accompany their meal.
•Let them buy every once in a while. If there is a certain food your child loves from the cafeteria, let him or her buy that day. If your child would like to buy lunch more frequently, review the menu with him or her and discuss the healthful options that are available.
With a little careful planning, you can feel good knowing that your children are eating healthfully during the day.
Looking for more information about kids and healthy eating? The Choose My Plate website has a number of recipes, tips and resources for families.
