Last year, I covered ROCK THE LUNCHBOX here on THE ROCK FATHER in a move to share some healthy options for kids’ lunches. For 2014, ROCK THE LUNCHBOX (a joint effort by Annie’s Homegrown, Applegate, HONEST Kids, Organic Valley and Rudi’s Organic Bakery) is bigger than ever, and their 2nd Annual Lunch Box Report Card revealed that the needle has really moved toward “healthy,” as 72% of kids now think it’s “cool” to have healthy foods packed for school lunches – but there’s still a need to shake things up with variety and excitement. With that in mind, ROCK THE LUNCHBOX partnered with Amelia Winslow of Eating Made Easy for some helpful tips on how you can ROCK your kids’ lunchbox in the coming school year. Check ’em out below…
Amelia’s Tips to Rock the Lunchbox
1. Think outside the sandwich.
When I hear the phrase “packed lunch” I immediately think of a sandwich in a brown bag, but there are plenty of other foods that offer great nutritional value and equal convenience. Instead of a sandwich, pack a mini frittata, pasta salad, or if you don’t have time to prepare, an Applegate Half-Time Turkey & Cheese Lunch kit.
2. Offer your child’s favorite foods in different formats.
Simply varying the presentation of the “main dish” and offering a variety of fruits & veggies can keep your child excited about healthy eating. For example, if your child likes sandwiches best, try changing up the format by making a wrap, burrito or panini. Rudi’s multigrain tortillas make are great for wraps! Or instead of regular yogurt cup, pack a Stonyfield YoKids Squeezer.
3. Invest in a Bento box.
Kids (and adults!) of all ages love and appreciate finger foods, and a Bento box – or collection of small containers – allows you to pack a variety of healthy items that together equal a balanced meal. And, snacks like Annie’s Cheddar Bunnies and Organic Valley Stringles will fit nicely into the compartments.
4. Include your child in some aspect of food prep.
When you invite the kids to help you make a shopping list, select fruits & veggies at the grocery store, or wash and prepare lunch foods on the weekends, they’ll feel more invested in the healthy food you serve them.
5. Make lunches colorful.
Appeal to your child’s senses by offering a variety of colors, textures and tastes in her lunch. Juice drinks like Honest Kids’ come in colorful pouches and flavors. Aim to include in-season produce, so fruits and vegetables taste their best.
Want more great tips, plenty of inspiration, and some great product coupons from Annie’s, Applegate, HONEST Kids, Organic Valley and Rudi’s Organic Bakery? Check out http://www.rockthelunchbox.com/
Disclosure: THE ROCK FATHER is participating in a compensated Ambassador Program with #TeamAnnies
