start em young
Once kids get older and start making their own choices, how do you know they’re going to make good ones? Because you started them young and taught them well.
Some people say you shouldn’t “deprive” your kids of junk food and sugary treats when they’re young, because once they’re off on their own and able to choose they’ll go right for the junk. We think the opposite is true.
If we teach the importance of healthy eating to kids when they’re young, reinforce by example, and allow kids to experience the energy and vitality they feel from eating healthy foods, they’re a lot more likely to make healthy choices for themselves when they become independent.
Each year, Carrie Vitt at Deliciously Organic, sits down with her now middle school girls to make a list of what they want to pack for school lunches. Since the girls have been helping to pack lunches since kindergarten, their choices are impressively healthy!
Check out these mouthwatering recipes that topped the Deliciously Organic girls’ list of lunch faves (definitely good enough for dinner too!):
Chicken Stew with Butternut Squash and Kale
Frittata with Sausage, Sweet Potato and Caramelized Onions
Homemade Ranch for dipping veggies
Next, Carrie makes sure she has the right containers on hand for the types of foods her girls like best.
Insulated containers are a must-have for hot foods, and can provide a last minute solution when leftovers become lunch. Insulated containers also work great for cold foods like smoothies and yogurt parfaits.
Glass and stainless steel containers replace plastic for both room temperature options and cold food when you send an ice pack.
Last but not at all least, reusable snack and sandwich bags are the ultimate replacement for plastic baggies, great for cut up veggies, sandwiches, and dry snacks.
One last suggestion for success: Create a new morning routine that includes getting the kids up 15 minutes early to help. A good game plan, plus the right containers, and enough time to get the job done all add up to one happy lunch packer!
What are your bigger kid’s top healthy lunch picks? Share your ideas with other parents and support your school in our latest challenge!Search Articles
