When putting together a lunch box for day care or school try to offer variety – think of the four main foods groups and aim to include something from each one if you can. For young children keep foods simple and easy for your child to manage. For older children try more adventurous foods particularly in sandwich or roll fillings.
Lunchbox ideas for child care
Depending on the age of your toddler, some of these suggestions may not be appropriate until a little older.
Fruit & Veg
- » Mandarins (peeled)
- » Raisins
- » Grapes – cut in half
- » Banana
- » Apple slices (add a little lemon to prevent browning)
- » Kiwi fruit (peeled and cut in pieces)
- » Carrot sticks
- » Cherry tomatoes – cut in half
Meats
- » Mini meat balls
- » Sliced ham
Breads & Cereals
- » Sandwiches (fill with cheese, ham, avocado, lettuce, marmite, egg, tuna, grated carrot)
- » Mini muffins
- » Crackers
Dairy Products
- » Cheese slices or sticks
Snacks
- » Wine biscuits
- » Rice crackers
- » Fruit loaf
Lunchbox ideas for school
All of the above foods are great for school kids also or some further suggestions are below. Try to keep dairy or meat items cool by placing a frozen drink bottle in with the food, or buy a small chiller bag for your child to take their lunch in. Remember to pack a spoon or fork if they need it.
Fruit & Veg
- » Carrot or celery sticks with hummus
- » Roasted vegetable salad
- » Pasta salad with lots of vegetables
- » Fruit pottles
- » Apples
- » Oranges
- » Pineapple or melon chunks
Meats
- » Chicken drumstick
- » Tuna in a sandwich or salad
- » Ham or roast lamb in bread roll
Breads & Cereals
- » Pita bread filled with hummus, grated carrot & cheese, lettuce, tuna
- » Enchilada breads spread with avocado, salad & ham - roll up and slice
- » Rice or pasta salads
Dairy Products
- » Yoghurts
- » Milk drinks
Snacks
- » Fruit & nut mix, or slice of loaf
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