Skip to content
1. Get Your Kids Involved In The Planning
As parents, we naturally want the best for our kids, perhaps sometimes to a fault. We try to structure their food and meal choices around what we think is most nutritious. However, our rigidity may be what is getting in the way when it comes to tasks such as school meal preparation. One easy way we can start making the process less stressful for ourselves and our little ones is by getting them involved in the meal planning process. This integration will take the pressure off parents from guessing the types of healthy foods kids may like by simply asking them for their input.2. Negotiate, Negotiate, Negotiate
The one skill I had no idea I would exercise as much as I have since having my son is negotiating. For as long as I can remember, he has been a firm believer in finding a mutual middle ground about anything he did not completely agree with, and I have learned to work with it and not against it. Little did I know, he was teaching me the best way to interact with him and others when trying to implement change in their lives. This is no different when it comes to figuring out tricky things such as school lunches.3. Explore New Items At Home, Not For Lunch
As much as we may want our little ones to try new veggies and fruits, I’ve learned that lunch time is NOT the ideal to introduce them. This was very clear after several days of snacks that made their way back home at the end of the school day. Avoid the stress of major change by trying out several new options at home when you and your little ones have the time to explore and experiment with the new tastes and combinations. This can be made into a fun afternoon activity by taking them with you to the store and letting the fruits and colors spark their interest and conversation. Once you get home, let them help slice and arrange the food in ways that are appealing to them.- Roasted Veggie Wraps
- Cucumber Slices With Hummus
- Tomato & Cheddar Sandwiches
- Chickpea “Tuna” Salad
- Granola and Fruit Parfaits
