Healthy School Lunches that Your Kids Will Actually Eat!

It is hard to believe summer is over and we are all back to the business of school, sporting events, homework, after-school activities and busy work schedules! When we are busy, it is easy for our healthy eating habits to take a back seat in exchange for less-healthy, more convenient options. It is also easy to slide into the “convenient” route while fixing lunches for our kiddos often because we just simply run out of ideas of things that we think they will actually eat!

With September being National Childhood Obesity Awareness month, we thought, what better time to get some suggestions from our very own expert on staff, Registered Dietitian Andrea Fergus Yates, PA-C, RD.

Andrea shares some of her favorite lunch recipe’s that are sure to put a smile on your little ones face. In addition to consistent hydration and daily exercise, choosing healthy options for snacks and back-to-school lunches can help everyone in the family stay healthier and happier!

Check out these yummy ideas below for healthy alternatives to pack for your little-one this year!

ExperCARE Quick Menu Picks

Ham-Pineapple-Cheese Pinwheels

Ham or turkey (try Boar’s Head freshly sliced at the deli!), pineapple slices, lettuce, and low-fat cheese wrapped inside a wheat tortilla.
On the side: No-sugar-added applesauce, a handful of popcorn or mini rice cakes

Mini Apple Sandwiches

Use thinly sliced apple slices instead of bread with peanut butter (or almond butter) in the middle On the side: Baked sweet potato chips or cheese cubes.

Left Over Tacos

Black beans, lean beef, or turkey meat inside of a wheat tortilla with salsa, lettuce, and low-fat shredded cheese.
On the side: No-sugar-added pudding

PB&H

Peanut or almond butter, sliced banana, and honey on a whole wheat wrap or wheat bread. On the side: Baby carrots or Go-Gurt yogurt

Pizza Wraps

Marinara sauce, Laughing Cow cream cheese, pepperoni, and shredded cheese in a tortilla. On the side: Grilled chicken nuggets, baked sweet potato fries, or fresh peaches

Snack Ideas:

Ants on a Log: Celery sticks (also try apples or bananas) with peanut butter and raisins or a few chocolate chips
Mini rice cakes and string cheese or Laughing Cow cheese
Low-fat Greek yogurt (or Go-Gurt) with a handful of Gold Fish pretzels
Strawberries and a handful of Gold Fish crackers
Blueberries and popcorn (no added butter)
Carrots and celery with low-fat Ranch dip or hummus
No-sugar-added applesauce and whole grain crackers or cereal

Healthy Tips

1. Have the main dish consist of a lean protein
2. Always have a veggie and/or fruit
3. Add something crunchy
4. Add something sweet
5. Have the main dish consist of a lean protein
6. Cut up fruits and veggies so they are ready-to-eat when stored in the fridge
7. Store apples, bananas, and peaches on the counter where kids can easily access them
8. Keep healthy options at your fingertips for that “after school starvation”
9. Avoid having high-sugar juices or sodas available at home
10. Lead by example!