School is starting again and it’s easy to give your kids money for lunch rather than pack one from home. However, keep in mind that you don’t know what foods your kids will select and they may give in to junk food urges. With a healthy lunch, you can provide your children with something nutritious and still tasty. Plus, it is often a nice way to save money. School concentration is aided by balanced meals. Kids tend to choose foods high in sugar and fat when on their own.

First of all, letting your kids help with the lunch box will get you to see what they will actually eat. If you only pick what is “good for them”, you may be sacrificing foods that your child will actually eat.  Most kids will munch on carrots and celery sticks if there is a dip. This doesn’t mean it has to be a high fat cheese dip. You can find some fat free and low fat dips and dressings that will compliment the vegetables

Good choices for sandwiches include peanut butter and jelly, tuna fish, cold cuts like turkey or egg salad. If you child is allergic to peanut butter, almond butter is delicious and a good substitute. If you use mayonnaise on the tuna or deli sandwich, try to include an ice pack to keep it cool. There are now fat free chips which are baked and many kids enjoy them. This is a nice way to get crunch but without the extra fat.

Snacks such as yogurt, cottage cheese, pretzels and granola are nice selections that your child will enjoy. Don’t make a big deal about the food being nutritious, but just pack the lunch with a smile.