
Preparing healthy and appealing meals for kids going back to school can be a challenge, but with a bit of creativity, you can make sure they're excited about their lunches. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
1. Bento Box Lunches
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Bento boxes are a fun way to offer a variety of foods in one meal. They are visually appealing and can be customized to your child's preferences.
- Main: Mini turkey and cheese roll-ups.
- Sides: Baby carrots, apple slices, and a small container of hummus.
- Snack: A handful of mixed nuts or seeds (if allowed in school).
- Dessert: A couple of pieces of dark chocolate.
2. DIY Lunchables
Kids love the concept of making their own mini sandwiches or pizzas.
- Main: Sliced turkey or ham, cheese slices, and whole-grain crackers.
- Sides: Cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and a small bunch of grapes.
- Snack: Yogurt with a sprinkle of granola.
- Dessert: A small homemade muffin or cookie.
3. Wraps and Roll-Ups
Wraps are easy to make and can be packed with nutritious ingredients.
- Main: Chicken Caesar wrap with grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and a light Caesar dressing in a whole-wheat tortilla.
- Sides: Bell pepper strips and a handful of berries.
- Snack: String cheese or a small portion of cottage cheese.
- Dessert: A piece of dark chocolate or a fruit leather strip.
4. Pasta Salads
Cold pasta salads can be both filling and nutritious.
- Main: Whole wheat pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, cucumber, and a light Italian dressing.
- Sides: A small side salad with lettuce, carrots, and a vinaigrette dressing.
- Snack: A small portion of mixed dried fruit.
- Dessert: A couple of homemade energy bites.
5. Fun Sandwiches

Get creative with sandwich shapes and fillings.
- Main: Whole-grain sandwich with almond butter and banana slices, cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
- Sides: Sliced bell peppers and a small container of ranch dressing.
- Snack: A hard-boiled egg or a small container of edamame.
- Dessert: A small homemade granola bar.
6. Healthy Snack Packs
Sometimes a variety of small snacks can be more appealing than a traditional lunch.
- Main: A mix of rolled turkey slices, cheese cubes, and whole-grain crackers.
- Sides: Carrot sticks, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas.
- Snack: A small container of Greek yogurt with honey.
- Dessert: A small handful of dark chocolate chips or a fruit cup.
7. Hot Thermos Meals

For something warm and comforting.
- Main: Mac and cheese with hidden veggies (such as pureed cauliflower or butternut squash).
- Sides: Steamed broccoli and a small apple.
- Snack: A small container of applesauce.
- Dessert: A homemade oatmeal cookie.
Tips for Successful School Lunches
- Balance Nutrition: Aim to include protein, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in each meal.
- Involve Your Child: Let them help in planning and packing their lunches to ensure they get what they like.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare as much as you can the night before to save time in the morning.
- Keep It Fun: Use colorful containers, fun shapes, and a variety of foods to keep lunch exciting.
These back-to-school meal ideas are designed to keep kids energized and focused throughout the day. Happy lunch packing!
Love, The Denmans
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