Dear Readers,
I come across this one question multiple times that no matter what we keep in the box, children always try to skip it. So let us together understand and make the box yummy not for us but being mindful of the little ones interest.
Packing the lunch box for kids these days is no less than waging a war knowing that at the end we always end in giving into their demands. But remember it is not just about keeping in mind fulfilling the daily nutritional requirements but also about making the food items look appealing, so kids like them and also eat them. Kids are unarguably known for their fussy eating habits, and making them eat healthy food can be quite a task. To help you out, In this blog, we will discuss some great lunch box ideas and work on tips that will make sure your kids enjoy their meal.
When it comes to preparing and packing food for a lunch box, the options are endless. But before you jump start packing, it is important to ponder on a few important aspects.
Here are some tips that will help you plan the perfect lunch box for your kid
Involve them in the decision-making process
Ask them about their food preferences and what they want to see in their lunch box because they know what teases the eyes and tingles the taste buds, hence involve them while making arrangements for their lunch box. This will ensure that they eat their lunch every time and every day.
Simplify
When it comes to packing lunch for kids, simplicity is the key. Avoid packing too many different things in one box as it will only confuse them, too many options only create fear in them that they are bound to complete every item, this will generate dislike towards the food in their mind.
Experiment
Lunch time should be fun for kids and not something they must endure. So make sure that you pack their lunch in a way that is fun and exciting for them. Use different creative containers and cut their food into fun shapes. Regular food when repeated makes their lunch time monotonous and they repel.
Be aware of dislikes and allergies
If your child has any food allergies or holds serious dislike towards any type of food, make sure that you take that into account while preparing or packing their lunch. After all the food is for them not to satisfy our culinary skills.
Teach them healthy
Lunchtime is a great time for kids to learn about healthy eating habits. So listen to them because they hear, learn and observe a lot many things therefore let them help you choose healthy items to pack. This will also make lunchtime more fun for them as they will be excited to eat the foods they helped choose.
Teach them healthy
After you have trained your child to eat healthy successfully, it is essential that this lifestyle should be followed diligently and not forgotten as a new-year resolution. A child needs to maintain a balanced diet and that starts from the food that is provided at home. Crucial to their welfare is a healthy weight and a daily routine. If you have overlooked this important aspect of their being, it is time to start paving the way for healthy eating.
What should be kept in mind………
Natural
Seasonal fruits and vegetables are a great addition to any lunch box if prepared and packed in an attractive manner. They are the power house for nutrients and fiber that help keep your child full, satisfied and energetic. Experimenting with exotic fruits and vegetables is feasible only if the child is exposed to them, don’t overdo it for trend’s sake.
Healthy
Healthy snacks are also a great way to keep your child’s energy up during the day. Choose items wisely avoiding sugary, oily or even foods stored for longer shelf-life. They are easy replacements but cost the health of the child. Home-made snacks should be a priority.
A Balanced Meal
For proper physical, mental and emotional growth every child requires a balanced meal, sometimes we feel a box of curd rice and some fruit on a daily basis serves the need but we are wrong, a child should be exposed to a variety of food over the week. Balanced meal is not always boring but could be colorful and tasty too.
Let us explore……
Wraps
Use whole wheat tortillas or flatbread to prepare something as yummy as a taco. You are free to experiment the way you desire , use vegetables, cheese, fruit pulp the way your child loves it.
Fruit kabobs/fruit grill
Kids love eating food on a stick, and these fruit kabobs are no exception. Simply thread some fruits like strawberries, grapes, watermelon, etc., onto skewers, and your healthy snack is ready, you might also grill them for a softer texture or even dip them in yogurt or chocolate sauce for extra flavor. Nothing is as healthy and filling as a sumptuous box of fruits sprinkled with little chat masala or any thing that makes it lip smacking.
Pasta /Coleslaw
These are at times under-rated in our Indian platter ,but remember they can turn and become your Child's favorite box. You can add a variety of colorful vegetables, cheese, and protein of your choice to make it more nutritious. You can also take tips from Italian, Spanish and French cuisine.
Sandwiches
These again come in variety depending on the amount of time and interest one has while preparing them. Normal ones are grilled, toasted and so on…The filling again could be anything from cooked vegetables, cheese, egg, salami or even smoked meat if one likes it.
Let us explore something Indian style….
Vegetable Poha or Paratha
These are Indian Lunch Box recipes that are healthy and filling. You can add various vegetables to the poha or paratha dough to make it more nutritious. Add some chutney or sauce on the side for dipping.
Fried rice/lemon rice/Puli gore
This is the most healthy and tasty Lunchbox recipe that kids will love. You can use brown rice or white rice for this recipe. Add the right flavor and it is good to go into the box. Being versatile, a lot of experimentation can be done with rice.
Vermicelli upma/upma
Upma can be boring but if experimented with, can turn into the most delicious lunch box and a lip-smacking delight. You can add a lot of veggies, or even make a sweeter version of it.
There are endless food versions to explore and share with us…..
*Must do’s when packing a Lunch Box
- Ensure cleanliness is taken care of before preparing the Lunchbox.
- Make sure all the food is cooked correctly and cooled before packing it into the Lunchbox.
- Use separate containers/compartments for different types of food to prevent them from mixing.
- Prepare necessary things for the Lunch Boxes the night before, so you have enough time to prepare them properly in the morning.
- Label the lunch boxes with the child’s name to prevent confusion.
- Inspect Lunchboxes daily and wash them regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria.
Lunch is an important meal of the day and should be given the same attention as any other meal. With a bit of planning, you can ensure that your child’s Lunchbox is both nutritious and delicious! Following these tips will help you create healthy and safe Lunchboxes for your children.
Happy reading and don’t forget to share your feedback….
Upcoming blog- Attendance Matter for Kids
