09.06.08

ABC’s for a Fun and Nutritional School Lunch



ABC’s for a Fun and Nutritional School Lunch

A – Always include your child in planning lunches.  Kids are more likely to eat a nutritious lunch if they are allowed to make choices from a selection of healthy foods.  Here are some healthier lunch alternatives to consider:

Instead of:                                         Consider:

Higher-fat lunch meats        Lower-fat deli meats, such as turkey
   
White bread            Whole-grain breads (wheat, multi-grain)

Fruit in syrup            Fruit in natural juices or fresh fruit

Cookies and snack cakes    Trail mix, yogurt, oatmeal cookies

Fruit drinks and soda        Milk, water, or 100% fruit juice

B – Be Creative – Add something fun to your child’s lunch.  Here are some ideas:

Make a custom trail mix including your child’s favorite cereal, mini pretzels, dried fruits, nuts and seeds.

Cut sandwiches into fun shapes with cookie cutters.

Include a note, story, or stickers to encourage your child and let him or here know how much you love him.

C – Consider safety.  Here are some suggestions to keep lunch foods safe:

Wash your hands first.

Use a thermos for hot foods.

Use cold packs or freeze some foods and drinks overnight. They'll thaw in the lunchbox.

Wash out lunchboxes every day or use brown paper bags that can be discarded or recycled.

Toss in some moist towelettes to remind kids to wash their hands before eating and to clean up after.
 

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ABC’s for a Fun and Nutritional School Lunch