The Challenge of Healthy Lunches
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy for nutritious lunches to fall by the wayside. That’s why we’re inviting you to join the Healthy Lunch Month Challenge this September!
Back to School, Back to Busy
With the kids returning to school, you might expect to have some extra time, but that’s not always the case! School brings a whirlwind of after-school activities, resulting in early mornings filled with hockey practices, school drop-offs, and the need to shuttle kids to their various dance, music, and karate classes throughout the day.
The Importance of Nutritious Lunches
Healthy meals are crucial, especially for growing children who require essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for proper growth and development. Research has shown that inadequate nutrition in children can lead to decreased academic performance, which is understandable. Without sufficient energy, children struggle to keep up mentally.
How to Get Involved
Throughout September (and ideally for the entire school year), prioritize balanced lunches that include whole grains, lean proteins, and a variety of fruits and vegetables for both your kids and yourself. It’s simpler than it seems.
To help you along the way, consider these time-saving strategies:
- Plan and prepare your family’s school lunches for the entire week on Sundays. You might cook a big batch of soup or have a family pizza night, using leftover slices for lunch.
- Involve your children in the process—let them pick out their favorite fruits, vegetables, and sandwich fillings, assigning them the title of assistant chef.
- Chop a selection of vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, storing them in a large, airtight container in the fridge for quick and easy snack options.
Feeling stumped on lunch ideas? Explore these simple and tasty lunch suggestions featuring tree nut butters and their alternatives. Plus, ensure a great start to your mornings with these kid-friendly breakfast options.
