Healthy Living
A new school year is rolling around, my boys are getting older, and this mama’s heart is struggling. Where is the time going? Let’s be honest, lunch is the real sticking point for healthy eating during the school year. It’s easy to run out of ideas by day five of school. Are you ready to kiss the lunch box rut goodbye this year?
Meet the “Pick-4” Lunch Hack. We have a fun “pick 4” method that allows the boys to pick some of their favorite foods while also ensuring they are getting a balanced lunch. This way, they get a meal packed with protein, fruits, and/or veggies and something that will make them smile.
Why This Method Works. It helps simplify your busy life by taking lunches off your mind! It gives you peace of mind – you know if your child has at least one item from every category, they have a balanced, nutritious lunch to fuel their little body. When you let your child help you choose from each category (or if they can read, let them make checkmarks themselves) this gives your child the power of some choices when it comes to lunches, which will help them get excited to eat. It also helps them gain confidence in taking control of their own healthy lifestyle, setting them up for success in the future. Plus, you’re limiting their choices to your approved options ahead of time! Here are the three steps:
1. Make a list of foods your kids like, divided into four categories: Protein, Fruits and Veggies, Treat, and Snack.
2. Then sit down with your child and pick one item from each category. So, for example, Protein: turkey roll-ups. Fruits and Veggies: carrots and apples. Treat: cookie. Snack: popcorn.
3. Don’t forget their water bottle! Letting your child drink water or packing chilled milk is a great way to cut down on sugar consumption and keep them hydrated!
To learn more about ways to ace meal planning with picky kids during the school year, check out my downloadable eBook, Healthy Meal Planning: Kid’s Edition; A Busy Mom’s Guide For The Picky Eater. Regardless of the age of your child, these simple hacks, tips, charts, activities for littles, recipes, love notes, and more, will assist with meal planning not only in the back-to-school season but year-round. You can use code SUMMER to get 40% off!
-Heather Brown
