School Lunch Ideas for Hungry Kids (and Teens)

I have 4 boys and a daughter. Some may say all those boys are equivalent to a couple of teenagers. As they head back to school, I’m looking for some unique and healthy ways to fuel their bodies and minds.

So what are some great school lunch hacks for those going to school?

1. Make sandwiches during the weekend and place them in the freezer. They will be ready to go for quick and you’ll have easy access for the following week so you or your student can quickly pack.
2. Speaking of freezing, buy a large container of juice or water bottle and place it into a Ziploc bag in the freezer the night before so your drink doubles as an ice pack to keep your lunch cold.
3. Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in their lunch box, you never know when it could come in handy.
4. Did you know, your thermos can be used for more than just hot drinks? Hot dogs, chicken nuggets and other small snacks can be stored in a thermos to keep warm for lunch.

Sick of slapping stuff on bread? If you’re looking for more unique lunch ideas for your hungry kids here are some sandwich-free ideas for you!

• Food on Sticks: think chicken kebabs, beef skewers, etc!
• Quesadillas
• Meat, cheese roll ups
• Veggie or spring rolls
• Breakfast for lunch: pancakes or french toast sticks FTW!
• Hummus and Pita Plates
• Mason Jar Salads: make sure to put the dressing at the bottom and then the more dense veggies next with lettuce on top

Here are a few more ideas to fuel your hungry children:

1. Pasta Salad. A more exciting spin on the classic salad, this Pasta Salad will have you drooling! Good for you and part of a healthy diet, this salad will have the whole family talking.
2. Chips & Dip. Pretzels, chips or veggies— you can’t go wrong! You can use pretzels or chips to satisfy salty cravings for those kids without a sweet tooth.
3. Dessert. Almost everyone has a sweet tooth. Be sure to include a dessert treat that can keep them motivated through the rest of the day, like mini cookies.
4. Fruits and Veggies. These can be better than just an apple or banana. Pack a single serving of peanut butter, or a tasty dip to pair with fruits and vegetables for some long-lasting energy.
5. Trail mix. Mix up some dried fruit, nuts, M&M’s or whatever other dried goodies you have— and you have a delicious trail mix! Filled with protein too!

What lunch ideas are you serving up this school year?