Lunchboxes! Anyone else need inspiration for the daunting task of creating balanced lunchboxes for kids? We can spend hours looking at blogs, Instagram post and many websites looking to gear up. For more seasoned moms, we might be passed that point and now skip the fancy bags to grab what was available at Costco. And to be honest, after years of lunchboxes, that’s where I find the best products.
Scroll to the bottom for a fun printable with lunchbox ideas!
Before giving up creating balanced lunchboxes for kids, here is the rule of three to keep my packing easy.
1. Main dish & Protein
Don’t think too much on this. Ask your kids for their preferences and keep some easy items in the freezer. Corn dogs, chicken nuggets, mini pizzas, empanadas, the list goes on. Making them in the morning is easy if you have a small oven or an air fryer. Last month we found some frozen dumplings to microwave and they have become an instant hit. Think about a max of 15 minute heating time and make it part of your routine.
My other easy go it is leftovers like pasta. This has become challenging as my kids are getting older and eating more, but if you can, set aside part of your dinner and heat it up in the morning. For warm food, preheat your hot lunchbox container with boiling water and it will remain warm.
2. Veggies
Leave one of your lunchbox compartments for veggies. Carrots, celery, grape tomatoes (although they are really fruits), cucumber, or whatever your kids prefer. You can prep for the week ahead or if you have very little time, buy precut vegetable platters at the supermarket and you are ready to go.
3. Fruits
This is the easiest part. Berries and grapes are my favorite, because they are so easy to get ready. Eventually, your kids might ask for variety, so you can precut a melon, sandia (watermelon), or other seasonal fruit and off you go.
This might sound obvious, but I have found it that keeping the printed reminder in my fridge door with balanced ideas makes packing lunchboxes easy. It is also easier to get kids involved, asking what they prefer and making some adjustments. Also remember that specially during the first days, kids are excited to be back with their friends and might not have as much time to eat, so pack light and have a snack ready at pick up.
Lunchboxes with cute shaped bites are cute, but might not work for most of us. Whatever ends up working for you, just remember one thing: Fed is best! Do what works for you and keep as much pressure off your days.
>> Click to Print Lunchbox Ideas <<
Do you have any favorite go-to ideas for balanced lunchboxes for kids? Please share below!
