Do you need some home lunch ideas? Many families may have the “school cafeteria” at home for this school year. Parents filling the role of school lunch lady, among other responsibilities. With a little preparation or pre-planning, lunch time can be a fun hour break from virtual or home school. Below are some ideas to make lunch and snacks to go a little easier.
Lunch Ideas
Grilled Sandwich- Add a little meat to grilled cheese.
Wraps or roll ups- Use tortillas to wrap healthy meat, cheese, veggies
Burrito Bowl- Leftover chicken/beef, rice, beans, salsa, veggies
Leftover dinner- Last nights dinner makes great lunches
Egg Salad- Hard boil some eggs for an easy egg salad sandwich
Mac n cheese redone- Box mac n cheese is great and convenient. If you have time, make your own (pasta, cheese, and milk) (Butternut Squash Mac n cheese Recipe)
Many kids may need a snack break. Providing an easy, healthy snack may give them the energy boost and improved focus they need for the day.
Snack Ideas
Apple and peanut butter
Granola bar and applesauce
Smart Pop (popcorn)
Mixed Nuts
Trail mix
Fresh fruit/veggies
Cheese cubes
Turkey pepperoni and pita crackers
Fresh veggies and hummus
Fruit smoothie
*Note: Many of the above snack ideas come in small portioned or convenient packs. The cost is a little higher, but if the convenience helps, it may be worth it. The deli section of many stores has pre-cut apples, fruit, veggies, or other healthy options. These would be great to fill the fridge. This saves time in cutting the food for snacks.
Another idea is keeping a water bottle close by. Sipping water during the day keeps kids hydrated. Also, if water is readily available, people are more likely to drink it, instead of going to the kitchen to get a glass. Obviously, keep open water bottles away from electronic devices.
Kids that are home alone, or on their own while parents are working may need a little assistance. Parents leaving out quick, easy, and healthy snacks and lunches, may help kids make smart choices. Involve the kids in choosing what to eat, keep it fun, and keep it easy.
Parents filling many school roles at home, or even kids making lunch on their own, can be overwhelming. But, a little planning and thought can make the day go easier. As with everything, a positive attitude during the day, makes lunch time go much easier.
Happy Healthy Lunch time!
Molly Wichman
Life Transformations Personal Training