Packing school lunches for kids can sometimes feel like a never-ending task, but with a little creativity and planning, it can be a lot easier. Here are some specific school lunch ideas for kids that will make your mornings smoother and your kids happier.
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10 Easy Types of School Lunch Ideas for Kids
1. Classic Sandwich Combos
Ham and Cheese Sandwich: Whole grain bread, ham, and cheese slices. Add a side of apple slices and baby carrots with ranch dip. I love to throw in the single-serve packages of ranch dips for less mess.
Turkey and Avocado Wrap: Whole grain wrap, sliced turkey, avocado, and a bit of mayo. Pair it with a small bunch of grapes and a cheese stick.
PB&J: Whole grain bread, natural peanut butter, and strawberry jam. Serve with a banana and a handful of pretzels.
2. Fun School Lunch Ideas for Kids with Bento Boxes
Mini Sandwich Squares: Small sandwiches cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters. Include cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and a small container of hummus.
Fruit and Cheese Delight: Cubes of cheese, apple slices, grapes, and crackers. Add a few slices of turkey or ham.
Yogurt Parfait: A small container of Greek yogurt with a side of granola and mixed berries. Include a side of carrot sticks and a small dip of ranch.
3. Creative Leftovers
Chicken Salad Wrap: Diced leftover chicken mixed with a bit of mayo, celery, and grapes, wrapped in a whole grain tortilla. Pair with a side of baby carrots and apple slices.
Pasta Salad: Leftover pasta mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette. Add a side of string cheese and a small orange.
Mini Pizzas: Use leftover English muffins or small bagels, topped with marinara sauce, shredded cheese, and any leftover veggies. Serve with a side of apple slices and a small container of yogurt.
4. Veggie-Packed School Lunch Ideas for Kids
Veggie and Hummus Wrap: Whole grain wrap, hummus, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and spinach. Add a side of grapes and a granola bar.
Stuffed Pita Pockets: Whole grain pita stuffed with hummus, chopped veggies, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. Include a side of sliced bell peppers and a small container of ranch for dipping.
Quinoa Salad: Cooked quinoa mixed with black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and a light dressing. Add a side of sliced apples and a handful of pretzels.
5. Fun and Simple Snacks
Cheese and Crackers: Slices of cheese, whole grain crackers, and a handful of cherry tomatoes. Add a side of apple slices and a small dip of peanut butter.
Fruit Kabobs: Skewers with a mix of berries, melon balls, and grape halves. Pair with a small container of yogurt for dipping.
Energy Balls: Oats, peanut butter, honey, and mini chocolate chips rolled into small balls. Serve with a side of carrot sticks and a cheese stick.
6. Hot Lunch Options
Thermos Mac and Cheese: Homemade or store-bought mac and cheese in a thermos to keep it warm. Include a side of steamed broccoli and apple slices.
Soup and Sandwich: A thermos of tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich. Add a side of sliced cucumber and a small container of hummus.
Chicken Noodle Soup: Homemade or store-bought chicken noodle soup in a thermos. Serve with whole grain crackers and a small bunch of grapes.
7. Sweet Treats
Yogurt and Granola: A small container of Greek yogurt with a side of granola and mixed berries. Add a side of baby carrots and a small dip of ranch.
Banana Bread: A slice of homemade banana bread with a side of apple slices and peanut butter for dipping.
Muffin Tin Meals: Mini muffins made with whole grains and hidden veggies. Pair with a side of string cheese and cherry tomatoes.
8. Quick and Easy School Lunch Ideas for Kids
Turkey and Cheese Roll-Ups: Slices of turkey and cheese rolled up together. Serve with a side of pretzels and apple slices.
Bagel and Cream Cheese: Half a whole grain bagel with cream cheese. Add a side of baby carrots and a small container of ranch.
Pita and Tzatziki: Whole grain pita slices with a small container of tzatziki. Serve with a side of sliced bell peppers and a small bunch of grapes.
9. DIY Lunchables
Make Your Own Pizza: Whole grain mini pitas, a small container of marinara sauce, shredded cheese, and sliced veggies. Let your child assemble their own mini pizzas at school.
Build Your Own Tacos: Small containers with taco meat, shredded cheese, lettuce, and mini taco shells. Include a side of salsa and a small container of guacamole.
Mini Sandwich Bar: Small containers with slices of bread, turkey, cheese, and condiments. Let your child build their own sandwiches.
10. Sweet and Savory Combos
Apple and Cheese Quesadilla: Whole grain tortilla with apple slices and cheddar cheese, grilled until the cheese melts. Serve with a side of baby carrots and a small dip of ranch.
Pear and Turkey Roll-Ups: Slices of turkey wrapped around pear slices. Add a side of pretzels and a small container of yogurt.
Banana and Nut Butter Wrap: Whole grain wrap with a spread of almond butter and a banana rolled inside. Include a side of sliced cucumber and a small dip of hummus.
Final Thoughts on School Lunch Ideas for Kids
These school lunch ideas for kids are designed to make your life easier and keep your kids excited about their meals. With a little planning and creativity, you can pack lunches that are both healthy and fun. Mix and match these ideas to keep things interesting and ensure your kids get a balanced meal daily.
