New Lunchbox Ideas

Say goodbye to those boring lunchbox staples. Sure, the classic sandwiches are quick and easy to make and pack, but your kids deserve something exciting and new to bring to school or daycare. The other kids may be jealous, but your child will be patting her tummy with delight! Check out these new twists on a packed lunch and make one for your child tomorrow. Enjoy!

Chilled Skewers

Lots of kids love kebabs, so make some next time you’re prepping a packed lunch. Here’s your chance to get creative with different ingredients. Use a wooden skewer to assemble the creation. (Be sure your child is old enough to safely eat her food off a skewer). Try these chilled variations:

Fruit and Cheese: Alternate cubes of your child’s favorite cheese such as Swiss or cheddar with cubed melon or strawberries. You can also go for a veggie and cheese skewer, alternating cubes of cheese with inch-sized pieces of green pepper, raw mushrooms, and cauliflower. Healthy and great-tasting!

Turkey (or Chicken) and Veggies: Use cubed pieces of poultry and alternate with pieces your child’s favorite veggies such as grape tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Pack a small Tupperware filled with salad dressing or dip for delicious dunking.

Banana and Cinnamon Raisin Bread: Cut up the bread into ¾ inch pieces and alternate with slices of banana. For an extra treat, spread a thin layer of peanut butter on each bread piece before skewering. You can also pack a yogurt-based sauce for delightful dipping.

Roll-Up Sushi

While packing regular sushi would probably be a bad idea, you can create your own “sushi” using some inventive ingredients. Use a wrap or soft tortilla as the base. Plain or whole wheat are equally tasty. Here are a few “sushi” options to try:

PB & J “Sushi”: Spread a thin layer of peanut (or another nut or seed) butter on the tortilla. Next, spread a thin layer of your kid’s favorite jelly or jam. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and some sunflower seeds. Roll up the tortilla tightly, then slice into ¾ inch bite-sized pieces. This new PB & J will impress your child!

TLT (Turkey, Lettuce & Tomato): Layer a slice of turkey, some shredded lettuce, and thinly sliced tomato over a tortilla spread with mustard or mayo. Again, roll tightly and slice. You can use other lunch meats or veggies for alternative variations. High in protein and big on taste!

Cream Cheese and Fruit: For a sweeter option, or as a snack, try this “sushi” option. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on a tortilla and top with thinly sliced fruit or jam. You can also use raisins or another dried fruit for this roll-up. Roll and slice for a sweet and healthy treat.

Have you ever packed an unconventional lunch for your child? Tell us about it! For more info like this, please visit All My Children Daycare.

By: Melissa A. Kay