Packing a Healthy School Lunch

Children who eat a nutritious lunch perform better in school. The best lunch is a combination of foods that supply protein, fat and carbohydrates to sustain energy and concentration for several hours. Eating foods from at least three food groups gives children the nutrients and energy they need to feel good and do well in school.What should you pack?Children\'s input should be the first ingredient. Children who help select and prepare their meals tend to make better choices. You may need to establish some ground rules for what goes into the lunch first. Talk to them about what they like to eat and take them with you on your next trip to the grocery store. Prepackaged lunches for kids are popular and convenient, but they\'re also expensive and can be less than nutritious. Instead, create your own packable lunch using healthier ingredients. Here are some of our favorite lunches to get you started.SandwichesSpice up your typical sandwiches by using different whole grain products instead of plain white bread: Different breads (9-grain, whole-wheat, spelt, kamut, sourdough) * Rice cakes * Plain or flavored bagels * Whole-wheat buns * English muffins * Matzo crackers * Pita breadDress up plain pita bread by trying something new.Pita Pizza: Spread low-fat ricotta cheese in the inside of the pita. Then stuff sliced tomatoes (or any type of pizza toppings) and any leftover cooked