As kids take on more and more after school clubs and activities, they may also need a few extra snacks to keep their energy and concentration levels up beyond the school bell.
Parenting on Female First
For busy mums it can be tricky choosing the right foods for the daily lunchbox, as well as healthier snacks for kids on the go. Not only do you want to feel confident that the items you’ve included are low in fat and added sugar, free from artificial ingredients and in appropriate child-size portions, but you also have the added pressure of choosing those foods that your child will actually enjoy eating.
Here are some helpful hints and tips for lunchbox packing from Patricia Turner, Director of Product Development Food, Health & Beauty at The Walt Disney Company EMEA.
1. Invest in a good quality lunch box: Lunch boxes with lots of separate compartments are fantastic as they ensure that food is divided, reducing taste and odour spread. The compartments are also fun for the child to open. Disney has an extensive range of lunch boxes to choose from, featuring kids‟ favourite Disney characters.
2. Get them involved: Let your child have a say in the content of their lunch box - if they are proud of their lunch, they will enjoy eating it in front of friends. Get them involved in choosing and preparing their food, so they look forward to eating it later on.
3. Preparation: Children often leave food that takes a lot of effort to eat, so give your child pre-prepared (peeled and chopped) fruit and vegetables in a variety of colours.
4. Colour: Ensure your child not only has their five a day, but also food from the colours of the rainbow. This will give your child a bright and vibrant lunch, as well as a wide range of vitamins and minerals, essential for good health.
5. Variety: Try to keep your child’s lunch box exciting and varied. Quick ideas such as filled pitta pockets, quiche and homemade pizza slices are simple and easy to prepare in advance.
6. Home baking: Ask your child to help make some homemade treats for their lunch box, for example cookies. Home baking is great, as some ingredients can be changed to healthier alternatives, for example substitute chocolate chips with dried fruit or raisins.
7. Keep cool: Try freezing your child’s drink or tube yoghurt - not only will this mean a cold treat at lunch time but will also act as an ice pack to keep their lunch fresh and cool.