Hey there, awesome parents! Did you know that your little ones spend about 40 weeks a year at school? That’s around 200 lunches! What you toss into that lunchbox can make a huge difference in their health and help them build lifelong healthy eating habits.
A healthy lunchbox brimming with fresh, wholesome goodies will help your child to:
- Stay Energized: Fuel their brains so they can concentrate and learn like pros.
- Grow Strong: Provide essential nutrients for their growth and development.
- Build Habits: Set the stage for a lifetime of healthy eating.
- Get Active: Power them up for sports and play throughout the day.
what’s in a healthy lunchbox?
Just like you might plan out your family dinners, having a game plan for lunchboxes can save you from last-minute supermarket sprints. Planning ahead is key to creating balanced lunches that check all the boxes for healthy eating. Here’s what to include:
- Veggies
- Fruits
- Dairy
- Whole grains
- Meats and Alternatives
- Water
fruits
Fruits are nature’s candy! They’re packed with fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, they’re super refreshing on those sunny playground days. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to make them extra tempting for little hands. Think chopped melon, a bunch of grapes, or seasonal fruits (bonus: they’ll be cheaper too!).
veggies
Don’t forget the veggies! They’re essential for hitting that daily goal of five servings. Try pairing veggie sticks with a tasty dip like hummus or whip up some sneaky veggie muffins that pack in the goodness without the kids even noticing!
whole grains
Carbs are your child’s best friend when it comes to energy! It’s crucial to fill their lunchbox with high-quality whole grains to keep them fueled throughout the school day. Opt for wholegrain bread, crackers, rice, pasta, or noodles for longer-lasting energy and nutrition.
meats & alternatives
Adding some protein will keep those little tummies satisfied longer. Think boiled eggs, canned fish, or even last night’s leftovers tucked into sandwiches or wraps. A little protein goes a long way in helping them focus on learning instead of counting down to lunchtime!
dairy
Dairy is a fantastic source of protein and calcium for strong teeth and bones. Pack some plain yogurt, slices of cheddar cheese, or cottage cheese with crackers or veggie sticks for a calcium-rich treat. During those hot summer days, toss an ice pack in their lunchbox to keep dairy cool and fresh!
water
Water is the MVP of drinks! It’s the only beverage your child really needs in their lunchbox. Skip the juices and sodas—they're more like “sometimes” treats. Fill up their water bottle and chill it overnight for a refreshing way to keep them hydrated during those warm school days.
b.box products to make packing easy
With b.box by your side, packing a healthy lunch is a breeze! Here are some fantastic products that can help:
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lunchbox: This innovative lunchbox features five spacious compartments to keep food organized and fresh.
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snack box: Perfect for smaller portions, this two-compartment container is designed with leak-proof seals.
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snack tubs: Ideal for snacks, these tubs fit perfectly inside the lunchbox.
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flexi insulated lunch bag: Keeps meals cooler for longer while being made from recycled materials.
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Tritan TM drink bottle: Lightweight and durable, it features an easy flip-top lid for hydration on the go.
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insulated drink bottle: Designed to keep drinks cold during school hours.
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sport spout bottle: Great for active kids with its silicone spout that prevents spills.
So there you have it! With a little planning and creativity—and some help from b.box—you can pack a lunchbox that not only keeps your kids energized but also sets them on the path to healthy eating habits.
Happy packing!