School Lunch Ideas

Primary Age Kids

School lunchtime can be a fun and exciting part of the day for primary age kids. Here are some fun school lunch ideas that can encourage your child to eat and enjoy their meals:

1. Sandwich kabobs: Cut up sandwiches into bite-size pieces and thread them onto skewers with fruit, cheese, and veggies for a colourful and fun meal.
2. Bento boxes: Pack small compartments with a variety of healthy snacks like fruits, veggies, crackers, and cheese. Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes out of foods like cheese and fruits.
3. DIY pizza: Provide pita bread or English muffins, tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings like peppers, mushrooms, or olives so that your child can create their own mini pizzas.
4. Veggie cups: Pack small cups with veggies like cherry tomatoes, carrots, and celery, along with a healthy dip like hummus or guacamole.
5. DIY Lunchables: Create your own DIY Lunchables by packing small containers with crackers, cheese, and deli meat. Add some fruit or veggies to round out the meal.
6. Quesadillas: Use whole-grain tortillas and fill with cheese, chicken, or veggies like peppers and onions. Cut into fun shapes or triangles for an exciting meal.

Remember that presentation can make a big difference in making lunchtime fun for kids. Use colorful containers and add small notes or stickers to make the meal feel special. Encourage your child to be involved in meal planning and packing their own lunch to get them excited about what they are eating.

Teenagers

Your Bundaberg Teens need a healthy and balanced diet to support their growth and development, especially during their school years. Here are some school lunch ideas that are both tasty and nutritious for teenagers:

1. Wraps or sandwiches: Use bread or wraps as a base and add in some lean protein like chicken, turkey, or tofu. Include some veggies like lettuce, tomato, cucumber, or peppers, and a spread like hummus, mustard, or avocado. Try out different fillings to add variety.
2. Salad: Pack a salad with plenty of fresh veggies, lean protein like grilled chicken or boiled eggs, and a healthy fat source like avocado or nuts. Dress with a vinaigrette or dressing.
3. Pasta salad: Cook some pasta and toss with veggies like cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers. Add in some protein like chickpeas or shredded chicken, and a dressing.
4. Rice bowl: Cook some rice and top with roasted veggies, grilled chicken, salmon, tofu, or shrimp. Add in some flavour with herbs, spices, and a dressing.
5. Snack box: Pack a variety of healthy snacks like crackers, baby carrots, hummus, grapes, and nuts.

Snacks on the Go

When your Wide Bay Kids are on the go, playing sport, or hanging out with their friends, pre-packaged snacks can be a convenient and nutritious option. Here are some pre-packaged snack ideas that are perfect for your kids:

1. Trail mix: A mixture of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit makes for a satisfying and portable snack that's packed with protein, healthy fats, and fibre.
2. Fruit cups: Pre-packaged cups of fruit like pineapple, peaches, and mandarin oranges are a great source of vitamins and minerals.
3. Protein bars: Protein bars are a great way to provide sustained energy and are often packed with protein, fibre, and other nutrients. Look for options with minimal added sugar and whole food ingredients.
4. Jerky: Beef or turkey jerky is a high-protein snack that's perfect for teenagers on the go.
5. Rice cakes: Rice cakes are an easy snack that can be topped with nut butter or hummus for added protein and flavour.
6. Popcorn: Air-popped popcorn is a great option for a crunchy and low-effort snack. You can find pre-packaged options in stores or pop and bag your own at home to top with whatever you like.