From PB&J to Lunchbox Brilliance: Back to School with Kid-Friendly Lunches!
Are you looking for a fun and practical way to pack lunches? Kids love lunch boxes! They come in all shapes, sizes, colors and designs. Whether it’s superheroes or princesses, there’s something for everyone. Plus they're made with sturdy materials that are sure to keep your little one's food safe until mealtime.
These lunch boxes will make packing meals easy and fun! With the variety of styles, you can find the perfect one that matches your kids' personality - so they'll be excited about bringing their lunch to school every day. The insulated lining keeps food cool (or warm!) on those long school days too! Shop now and get the perfect lunch box for your kid today!
How We Choose The Best
Packing a nutritious lunch for your kids can be an overwhelming task. While buying pre-packaged snacks and lunches may seem like a quick and easy solution, they unfortunately are often filled with unhealthy ingredients. As parents we want to make sure our children get the nutrients they need to thrive, but it can be hard to find the right lunch box to pack a healthy lunch that they enjoy eating.
Fortunately, these lunch boxes provide an easy and delicious solution. The range of vibrant and fun lunch boxes come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to pack a well-balanced meal no matter how busy your mornings are. All of these lunch boxes are made with durable materials so you can feel confident that your kids are getting healthy food every day.
We read through 1000's of Amazon reviews to find the best kids lunch boxes. We only selected products that have 4 or 5 stars and have been reviewed by dozens of people.
PawProven is impartial and is not affiliated with any brands or organizations. Links to Amazon are affiliate links and may result in a small commission on the purchase – at no additional expense to you.
5 Nutritious and Delicious Lunch Ideas for Kids
As parents, we all want our children to grow up healthy and strong. One of the key factors in ensuring their well-being is providing them with a nutritious diet. Healthy eating habits not only fuel their growing bodies but also support their cognitive development.
In this blog post, we will share some easy and tasty lunch ideas that you can pack for your kids, ensuring they get all the necessary nutrients while satisfying their appetite.
Tips for Ensuring a Nutritious Lunch
- Include a variety of food groups: Make sure to incorporate foods from different food groups, such as whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. This way, your child will receive a balanced meal with a wide range of essential nutrients.
- Sneak in veggies: Kids may not always be thrilled about eating vegetables, but you can find creative ways to include them in their lunch. For example, you can add grated carrots or chopped spinach to sandwiches or make vegetable-packed pasta salads.
- Opt for whole grains: Replace refined grains with whole grain options like whole wheat bread, brown rice, or whole wheat pasta. Whole grains are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and provides a sustained release of energy.
- Limit sugary snacks: Avoid packing sugary snacks and instead opt for healthier alternatives like fresh fruits, unsweetened yogurt, or homemade energy bars.
- Hydration is key: Don't forget to pack a water bottle in your kids lunch box to keep your child hydrated throughout the day. Water is crucial for maintaining their energy levels and concentration.
Five Delicious and Nutritious Lunch Ideas
Veggie Wrap with Hummus
- Nutritional Value: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables and protein from the hummus.
- Recipe: Spread a generous amount of hummus on a whole wheat tortilla. Add sliced cucumbers, carrots, bell peppers, and lettuce. Roll it up tightly and slice it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Quinoa Salad with Chicken
- Nutritional Value: Quinoa is a complete protein and a great source of fiber. Chicken provides lean protein, while vegetables offer various vitamins and minerals.
- Recipe: Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Once cooled, mix it with cooked, shredded chicken breast, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil for added flavor.
Pasta Primavera
- Nutritional Value: Whole wheat pasta provides complex carbohydrates, while the colorful mix of vegetables offers essential vitamins and antioxidants.
- Recipe: Cook whole wheat pasta until al dente. In a separate pan, sauté a selection of sliced vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Toss the cooked pasta with the sautéed vegetables and a light dressing made from olive oil and lemon juice.
Mini Turkey Burger Sliders
- Nutritional Value: Turkey is a lean protein source, and whole wheat buns offer fiber. Adding vegetables provides additional vitamins and minerals.
- Recipe: Mix ground turkey with breadcrumbs, minced onions, garlic powder, and your choice of seasonings. Form small patties and grill or cook in a non-stick pan. Serve on whole wheat slider buns with lettuce, tomato slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to mayo.
Fruit and Yogurt Parfait
- Nutritional Value: Fresh fruits provide natural sugars, fiber, and an array of vitamins. Yogurt offers calcium and protein.
- Recipe: Layer Greek yogurt with mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries) and a sprinkle of granola in a portable container. Use honey or maple syrup for added sweetness if desired.
Packing and Storing Tips:
- Use insulated lunch boxes or thermos containers to keep food at a safe temperature.
- Pack lunch boxes the night before to save time in the morning.
- Encourage your child to eat their lunch within a few hours of it being packed to maintain freshness.
- Involve your child in meal planning and packing their lunch box to increase their interest in healthy eating.
Remember, healthy eating is a journey, and it's important to introduce new foods gradually. By providing your child with a diverse range of nutritious options, you'll be setting them up for a lifetime of healthy habits. So, get creative in the kitchen and pack your kids lunch boxes with love and nourishment!
Sources:
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2019). Healthy Eating for Kids. Retrieved from https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/eating-as-a-family/healthy-eating-for-kids
- American Heart Association. (2021). Kids and Healthy Lunches. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics
OmieBox Bento Box for Kids
Why We Like It
Are you a parent looking for easy ways to encourage healthy eating habits for your children? OmieBox is just the thing for you! With its unique thermos insert feature, it can provide hot and cold food in one compact bento box that your kids will love—and gobble up!
Whether it’s their favourite pasta or last night’s leftovers, OmieBox is the convenient and hassle-free way to pack a tasty, nutritious meal for your kids in their bento style lunch boxes.
And, with its durable design made of 18/8, 304-grade stainless steel and BPA-free materials, OmieBox isn’t just built to last—it helps you save the expense of buying extra containers too!
So why settle for just one or the other when your kids can have hot and cold meals packed together in one? Invest in an OmieBox today and provide your kids with a hot, delicious lunch they’ll enjoy eating every day!
What Else You Should Know
OmieBox is the perfect solution for people who are always on-the-go and looking for an efficient way to carry their lunch with them. With its handy leak-proof thermos insert, your hot food stays warm and your liquids stay put. And when you need to switch things up, simply take out the insert to make room for your sandwich.
Plus, with the divider feature, you can customize the compartments in your OmieBox to keep your food separate and organized. Whether you're packing lunch for work or school, you can even fit a drink and snacks all in one container - eliminating the need for separate containers.
Effortlessly complete your OmieBox with the addition of our utensil set with a case and lunch bag! And when it comes to cleaning, OmieBox makes it easy – all of its rubber seals are removable, allowing you to wash it thoroughly every day and use it again and again.
And in case the seals get worn or damaged, there's no need to throw the box out. Simply purchase our replacement seals and your OmieBox is as good as new!
Recommended Age Grade- 3+ Years of Age.
FlowFly Kids Lunch Box Insulated Soft Bag
Why We Like It
The FlowFly Kids Lunch box makes eating healthy and easy! Our lunch box is crafted using durable 600D polyester and features a food-safe PEVA lining and sturdy zippers. For an added layer of convenience, it comes with an ice pack which helps to keep the meal inside fresh and warm all day.
Perfect for busy parents and kids aged 3+, the FlowFly Kids Lunch box provides easy organization and is quick and simple to use. Moisture-resistant, the FlowFly Kids Lunch box will keep your meal tasting healthy and fresh! Make eating healthy fun and easy with the FlowFly Kids Lunch box.
What Else You Should Know
Are you looking for a lunch pail that can fit all your snacks, utensils, and juice boxes without weighing you down? Look no further than FlowFly's portable, compact, and lightweight lunch pouch.
With features like a zippered front pocket for hiding surprise desserts or fun notes and an inner mesh pouch for napkins and utensils, this handy lunch pail has got you covered. You can even secure water bottles or ice packs in the box. Measuring at L: 10.6 x W: 4.33 x H: 7.7 inches, this spacious pouch can easily fit your meat and milk inside – so go ahead and pack that extra treat!
Plus, it's perfect for children. Upgrade your lunch game with FlowFly's convenient and versatile lunch pouch today.
OPUX Premium Insulated Lunch Box
Why We Like It
With the OPUX Premium Insulated Lunch Box, your meal times are about to get a whole lot easier! Whether you’re packing your kid’s school lunch or prepping for a picnic, this lunch box is perfect for carrying your food, snacks, and drinks wherever you go.
Not only is this lunch box conveniently portable with its top handle buckle, but it also has a side water bottle pocket and a front pocket for you to store your utensils and essential supplies. Plus, it comes with a soft thermal lining that is BPA and PVC free, making sure your food is kept safe.
No matter what you’re packing, the OPUX Insulated Lunch Box will keep your food, salads, and drinks at the optimal temperature for hours. And it’s made with 600D polyester and reinforced zippers, so you can be sure your lunch stays just as fresh and delicious as when you packed it. So the next time you’re preparing for a busy day, reach for the OPUX Premium Insulated Lunch Box! The perfect companion for carrying all your food needs, no matter where you go.
What Else You Should Know
Looking for a practical way to carry your lunch to work or office? This compact lunch box is the answer! Specifically designed for adults and professionals, this insulated lunch bag is packed with features that make it the perfect lunchtime solution.
With an inner mesh pocket to store utensils and a small, lightweight design, this lunch bag is not only portable but also conveniently fits inside a backpack or travel bag. The bag comes in a variety of vibrant colors that appeal to kids, boys, and girls, making it a great gift idea for birthdays, back-to-school, and Christmas.
Whether you're packing lunch for your little ones or need a stylish lunch box for work, this is the perfect choice for school, office, picnics, hikes, beaches, and camping trips. Get yours today and make lunchtime on-the-go a breeze!
Simple Modern Disney Kids Lunch Box
Why We Like It
Introducing the Simple Modern Disney Kids Lunch Box – the perfect companion for your little one’s lunchtime adventures! We’ve taken the hassle out of packing lunch, so that your kiddo can start the day right! This 4 liter lunch bag is ideal for kids, school, picnics, road trips, lunch at the office, the beach and more!
We’ve kept it roomy and comfortable, with an interior that’s lined with triple-insulated, water-resistant material so that lunch stays extra fresh. It also has a unique front pocket that’s easily accessed, so your child can store extra treats for a special treat. Choose from one of our Disney-inspired designs for a look that will have your kiddo feeling extra magical!
We’ve designed them to be durable, stylish, and functional, so that they can take on any adventure and handle whatever comes their way. Make lunchtime easy, fun, and of course delicious with the Simple Modern Disney Kids Lunch Box!
What Else You Should Know
Looking for the perfect lunch bag to help your student stand out at school? Our fun and cute lunch bags for girls and boys are designed to let your child express themselves while still being stylish. With a spacious 4L capacity, measuring 10.2 x 8.2 x 3.7 inches (WxHxD), there's plenty of room for all their favorite snacks and lunchtime essentials.
Made with durable materials, these bags are not only functional but also built to last. Whether your child is a fan of unicorns, dinosaurs, or anything in between, we have a range of designs to choose from. Help your student start the school year off in style with our trendy lunch bags!
Hairao Boys Lunch Box Leather Lunch Box
Why We Like It
Welcome to the Hairao Boys Lunch Box - offering an eye-catching design that’s sure to stand out! With a stylish, vibrant game machine look, your boys are sure to be delighted when they open their lunchboxes to find something as cool and unique as this.
Made of high-quality leather materials, your Hairao Boys Lunch Box is not only long-lasting, but also ultra-safe. This is because we’ve ensured that all materials used are BPA and Phthalate-free, giving you peace of mind knowing that your child’s food is stored in a healthy, safe, and secure place.
Moreover, this lunch box also features an impressive 1/5 inch (5mm) thermal foam layer that’s sure to keep your food and beverages fresh and delicious for longer periods. With a PEVA lined interior, you can be sure that the desired temperature of your food and beverages is retained.
So if you’re looking for a lunch box that is not only stylish and vibrant, but also safe and secure, then the Hairao Boys Lunch Box is the perfect choice for you. Order one today and give your boys the coolest lunchbox in school!
What Else You Should Know
When it comes to finding the perfect lunch box, size and design matter. Luckily, our lunch box fits the bill with its spacious interior and compact dimensions. At approximately 10.4x7.9x4.2 inches, this lunch box offers ample space for mealtime essentials like sandwiches, fruits, and other snacks. It even comes equipped with a built-in mesh bag for storing utensils and ice packs.
Despite its generous size, this lunch box remains lightweight and easy to carry, fitting effortlessly into school bags or backpacks. In addition to its perfect size, this lunch box is built to last. Featuring a sturdy zipper and waterproof, quick-dry exterior made from premium leather, it's sure to withstand daily use.
Plus, the leak-proof, easy-to-clean PEVA-lined interior is not only durable but also extremely practical. So, if you're looking for a lunch box that is both spacious and long-lasting, this is the one for you.
FAQs about Kids Lunch Boxes
1. What are some healthy lunch options for kids?
Some healthy lunch options for kids include sandwiches with whole grain bread, vegetable and fruit skewers, yogurt, homemade trail mix, and hummus with carrot sticks.
2. How can I make sure my child's lunch stays fresh until lunchtime?
To ensure freshness, use insulated lunch boxes or pack lunches with ice packs to keep perishable items cool. Additionally, avoid packing foods that spoil easily, such as mayonnaise-based salads or dairy products that need refrigeration. Both hot and cold foods can be packed in insulated lunch boxes. Bento-style lunch boxes help keep the food separated into sections which many younger kids prefer.
3. What are good alternatives to sandwiches in a lunch box?
Good alternatives to sandwiches include wraps, pita pockets, rice or pasta salads, mini quiches, and homemade pizza rolls. These options provide variety and can be made with different fillings to suit your child's preferences.
4. How can I encourage my child to eat their lunch at school?
Try involving your child in the lunch-making process by allowing them to choose the ingredients or pack their lunch box. You can also make their lunch visually appealing by including colorful fruits and vegetables and cutting them into fun shapes using cookie cutters.
5. Are there any easy-to-pack snacks that are both healthy and delicious?
Yes! Some easy-to-pack snacks that are both healthy and delicious include cheese cubes, sliced fruits, cherry tomatoes, popcorn, roasted chickpeas, and granola bars. These snacks provide a good balance of nutrients and are easy to grab on the go.
6. How can I accommodate my child's dietary restrictions in their lunch box?
If your child has dietary restrictions, it's important to plan their lunch accordingly. Look for suitable alternatives such as gluten-free bread or wraps, dairy-free yogurt, or nut-free snacks. Be sure to read labels carefully and consult with your child's healthcare provider if needed.
7. What are some ideas for allergen-free lunch boxes?
For allergen-free lunch boxes, consider options like hummus with veggie sticks, rice cakes with avocado spread, turkey or chicken lettuce wraps, fruit cups, and allergy-friendly snack bars. It's important to be aware of common allergens and check labels for any possible cross-contamination. Try not to pack foods like peanuts in your kids lunch boxes.
8. How can I ensure my child's lunch is balanced and nutritious?
To ensure a balanced and nutritious lunch, include foods from different food groups, such as whole grains, protein (e.g., lean meat, beans), fruits and vegetables, and healthy fats (e.g., avocado, nuts). Aim for variety and include different colors to provide essential vitamins and minerals.
9. What are some tips for meal-prepping kids' lunches?
To make meal prepping easier, plan ahead by creating a weekly meal plan. Prepare components in advance, such as pre-cutting fruits and vegetables, boiling eggs, or cooking grains. Use reusable containers to portion out meals and snacks for the week.
10. How can I make lunchtime more enjoyable for my child?
You can make lunchtime more enjoyable for your child by including small surprises in their lunch box, such as a note or a sticker. Additionally, encourage them to eat with friends or participate in school lunchtime activities to make it a social and fun experience.
Conclusion
As parents, it's our responsibility to ensure that our children are receiving the nourishment they need to grow and thrive. We can rely on school lunches for some support but when packing lunch boxes every day, it’s important to keep them nutritious, delicious, and enjoyable.
Not only is this beneficial for our kids since it’s teaching them how to make healthy decisions when it comes to their food choices, but it allows us to be creative with recipes and excitedly showcase lunch boxes to our children.
With a little bit of planning, including involving your child in making a game plan that includes packing their lunch box, everyone will be enjoying meals that will help them tackle their day ahead.
