Thinking Inside the Lunchbox

Healthy Lunches Your Kids Will Actually Want to Eat

Let’s be honest, packing a healthy lunch for your kids is one of those parenting goals that sounds wonderful in theory, but the reality can be very disheartening. You wake up early, pouring time and energy into crafting a nutritious meal, only to find that your kids are professionals at sniffing out anything remotely healthy. All of those early mornings seem wasted when your child runs out from school, still hungry, with a full lunchbox. Parenting is a balancing act between what’s best for your child and what they’ll actually eat - even when kids don’t yet appreciate the importance of good nutrition. 

To make things just a bit easier (and a lot more fun), we’ve created three themed lunchbox ideas that will transform lunchtime from a dreaded chore into an adventure your kids will look forward to.

So, what exactly makes a lunch truly “healthy”? The magic formula is simple. Every well-balanced lunch should have five key ingredients that will fuel your child’s body and mind for a day full of learning and play.

One fresh fruit: Think banana slices, berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), grapes or crisp apple slices. Fruits not only add natural sweetness, but they also provide essential vitamins and a burst of energy.

Two veggies: Picture crunchy baby carrots, cucumber slices, broccoli, sweet bell peppers or bite-sized grape tomatoes. Veggies bring a satisfying crunch and nutrients to every lunchbox.

One protein: Add power with peanut butter, edamame, sliced chicken, beans, Chomp sticks or classic hard-boiled eggs. Protein keeps kids full and ready.

One whole grain: Include pasta, brown rice, bread or crackers. Whole grains round out the meal with lasting energy and fiber.

A touch of dairy (optional): Milk, yogurt or a few cubes of cheese can add a comforting finish to your child’s meal. Dairy provides calcium for growing bones.

Let’s not forget the magic of presentation! Making lunch fun is often the key to getting kids excited about eating healthy. If you have a few extra minutes, try cutting sandwiches, cheese or fruit into playful shapes with mini cookie cutters. If mornings are a rush, don’t worry, a few whimsical food-picks with cute animals or favorite characters can instantly brighten up any meal and put a smile on your child’s face.

3 Imaginative Lunchbox Themes That Will Make Lunchtime the Hightlight of the School Days

Brunch Box

Give your child a midday treat with this brunch-inspired box with sweet grapes, refreshing cucumber slices, whole-grain toast, a hard-boiled egg and creamy yogurt. It’s a cozy, comforting lunch that feels just a bit special.

Italian Adventure

Transport your child’s taste buds to Italy with special protein pasta tossed in butter, juicy grape tomatoes, sweet peach slices, broccoli florets, string cheese and a little container of zesty Italian dressing for dipping. It’s a lunch that’s as delicious as it is fun to eat!

Rainbow Lunch

Create a lunch for the eyes and the taste buds with a vibrant array of grape tomatoes, crunchy carrots, banana slices, edamame, blueberries and whole-grain crackers. Eating the rainbow has never been so much fun and so filling.