5 Healthy Items to Put In Your Kids Lunchbox

03 Sep 5 Healthy Items to Put In Your Kids Lunchbox

For many parents, this time of year means one thing and one thing only—it is back to school time. When the school year starts, it likely means you are back to a routine or scheduling carpool, planning for after-school activities and of course packing lunches every day. If you want to make sure that your child is getting the best, healthiest lunch possible, then we have a few powerhouse suggestions that are a great addition to any lunchbox.

Here are five must-have healthy foods that you can easily pack in your kids’ lunch. They are simple and easy for busy moms and dads to make, affordable and super healthy for your little ones! Go ahead and give them a try, these are great ways to fuel your kids for a healthy, happy school day.

1. Watermelon- This is a great side dish or dessert for your child’s lunch, and is super easy to cut up and put in their lunchbox before the day begins. Watermelon is 92% water, meaning it is a great way to help your child stay hydrated. Most kids don’t drink enough water during the day, and it can be even more difficult during the school day. The good news is, hydrated kids have better memory, mood, and motivation.
2. Celery and Peanut Butter- Celery and Peanut Butter- Celery and peanut butter is a simple snack that isn’t just delicious, but good for your kids too. It is a great way to help get their veggies in for the day, while the peanut butter will provide them with the fuel they need to take on the afternoon. The peanut butter is also important as it provides a valuable and necessary source of protein. You can also substitute almond butter or go nut free with sunflower seed butter.
3. Fruit and Veggie Purees- Fruit and Veggie Purees- These are great for kids who want an on-the-go snack for their afternoon bus ride or for a quick addition to their lunch. These purees can contain both fruit and vegetables and are delicious and easy to enjoy on-the-go. If you have a high-energy kid that is going to want to eat their lunch as quickly as possible so they can hit the playground, this is a must-add addition to their lunch box.
4. Pasta Salad- Pasta Salad- Prepare a healthy pasta salad on Sunday night, refrigerate, and add this to your child’s lunchbox several times a week. Use a whole wheat pasta for some extra fiber and easily add in your kid’s favorite veggies. It is a healthy, filling and easy way to make sure that kids are getting healthy carbs and plenty of vegetables in the middle of the day.
5. No Bake Protein Energy Balls- No Bake Protein Energy Balls- Roll together peanut butter or almond butter, oats, nuts and dried fruit to create a no-bake protein ball. They are so simple to make, are filled with fiber, vitamins, and minerals and last forever if you refrigerate or freeze them. They look like a cookie (and taste sweet too) but are so much healthier and a great option for a healthy dessert your kids will gobble down.

There is no better time to start taking the right steps to make sure your little ones eat healthy, balanced lunches every day during this school year. If you have more questions about creating healthy, balanced meals for your children, contact us today at Continuum Pediatrics. We can help with your dietary and nutrition questions to make certain your kids are staying as healthy as possible. To schedule an appointment give us a call at 817-617-8600.