Guest Blog from Piccolo
When you’re packing your little one’s lunchbox, it's important to mix nutritious foods with delicious treats that they’ll love. There are so many ways to make lunchboxes exciting and balanced; our friends at Piccolo have rounded up some lunchbox ideas to help inspire you this back-to-school season!
And if you’d like more guidance, check out Piccolo’s FREE Weaning Hub for even more expert advice on infant nutrition and weaning – from pram to playground! And don’t forget to sign up to Piccolo’s Family Club to download FREE weaning guides and a toddler fussy eating guide
Key Takeaways
● Variety is key to keeping lunchboxes exciting and nutritious
● Include a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fruits, and veggies
● Get creative with presentation to encourage picky eaters
● Involve your little one in lunchbox preparation to boost their interest
● Plan ahead and prep ingredients to save time on busy mornings
Easy lunchbox ideas for kids
We know you’re busy, but these quick and simple lunchbox snacks will help to make things a little easier…
Simple sandwich variations
Sandwiches are a lunchtime favourite, but they can get dull. Try these tasty twists to keep lunchtime exciting…
● Turkey and cheese with lettuce and tomato on wholemeal bread
● Hummus and cucumber on a soft tortilla wrap
● Egg salad with watercress on a crusty roll
● Tuna and sweetcorn with mayonnaise on a bagel
Quick and healthy wraps
Wraps are a fun alternative to sandwiches, and they can be filled with lots of healthy ingredients.
|
Wrap Filling |
Ingredients |
|
Chicken Salad |
Grilled chicken, lettuce, parmesan |
|
Veggie Delight |
Hummus, grated carrot, cucumber, lettuce, tomato |
|
Beef Salad |
Sliced roast beef, lettuce, tomato |
No-cook lunchbox snacks
It's also essential to include healthy snacks in your child’s lunchbox. These no-cook options are great when you’re in a morning rush…
- Fresh fruit slices or berries
- Vegetable sticks with hummus or yoghurt dip
- Cheese cubes and wholegrain crackers
- Trail mix with nuts, seeds and dried fruit
You can also explore our kids' snack range featuring a variety of lunchbox options made with nutrient-dense ingredients and no added sugar or salt. As they’re school compliant, they’re perfect for popping into your little one's lunchbox to keep them energised all day!
Creative lunchbox ideas for kids
By using different colours, textures, and other fun ways to present food, your little one will look forward to opening their lunchbox every day!
If you have extra time or on special occasions, try using cookie cutters to shape sandwiches, fruits, and veggies into fun designs. You could make star-shaped cucumber slices, heart-shaped watermelon, or even dinosaur-shaped sandwiches!
Why not try making a colourful bento box too? Use a lunchbox with compartments or silicone muffin cups and fill each section with different colours and textures.
● Cherry tomatoes and carrot sticks for a pop of red and orange
● Blueberries and purple grapes for a burst of blue and purple
● Cucumber slices and broccoli florets for a fresh green addition
● Cheese cubes and yoghurt dip for a creamy white contrast
|
Lunchbox Component |
Creative Idea |
|
Sandwiches |
Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes like stars, hearts, or animals |
|
Fruits and Vegetables |
Cut fruits and veggies into bite-sized pieces and arrange them in colourful patterns |
|
Dips and Spreads |
Pack small containers of hummus, yoghurt dip, or nut butter for dipping |
|
Snacks |
Include a mix of healthy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, or air-popped popcorn |
Involve your child in making their lunchbox and let them pick their favourite fruits, veggies, and snacks. They can also help with simple tasks like washing fruits and vegetables, as this makes them feel more involved and excited about eating healthy.
Nutritious lunchbox ideas for kids
Packing your little one’s lunchbox with healthy foods supports their growth and helps them to stay full of energy.
Protein-packed lunchbox options
Protein is important for helping your little one's muscles to grow strong. Plus, it’s essential for several other elements of your little one’s health. Why not try adding one or more of the below to your child’s lunchbox?
● Hard-boiled eggs
● Sliced turkey or chicken breast
● Hummus with veggie sticks
● Cheese cubes or string cheese
● Yoghurt or cottage cheese
Veggie-filled lunchbox recipes
Adding different veggies to your child's lunchbox helps them get all the nutrients they need. Try these veggie-packed recipes…
|
Recipe |
Ingredients |
|
Veggie Pinwheels |
Whole wheat tortillas, hummus, grated carrots, sliced cucumbers, bell peppers |
|
Rainbow Salad Jars |
Cherry tomatoes, corn, diced avocado, grated beetroot, quinoa, spinach |
|
Broccoli Cheese Muffins |
Whole wheat flour, broccoli florets, cheddar cheese, eggs, milk |
You could even try making these delicious Pinwheels ahead of time.
Tasty lunchbox ideas for kids
Our child-friendly lunchbox ideas are sure to win over even the most fussy of eaters…
Kid-approved lunchbox favourites
These classic lunchbox items are sure to be a hit with your little one…
● Ham and cheese roll-ups with cherry tomatoes
● Mini pizza bagels with tomato sauce and mozzarella
● Chicken salad in pitta pockets with lettuce and cucumber
● Thermos with leftovers from dinner, like pasta or soup
Delicious dips and spreads
Dips and spreads add flavour and nutrition to lunch. Here are some tasty options…
|
Dip/Spread |
Pairing Suggestions |
|
Hummus |
Carrot sticks, cucumber rounds, whole grain crackers |
|
Guacamole |
Tortilla chips, bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes |
|
Cream cheese |
Mini bagels, rice cakes, apple slices |
Budget-friendly lunchbox ideas for kids
It's easy to pack a healthy lunchbox for your child without spending a lot. With a bit of creativity and smart shopping, you can make tasty and nutritious meals for school that your child will enjoy. Here are some tips and ideas for affordable lunchbox meals…
- Save money by buying ingredients in bulk and watching for sales. Items such as whole-grain bread, crackers, and pasta can be purchased in large quantities. Simply freeze or store them for later use. Additionally, buy fruits and vegetables when they're in season and freeze or preserve them.
- Plan your lunchboxes in advance to save money. Create a weekly menu and shopping list to avoid purchasing unnecessary items. Additionally, prepare components of the lunchbox, such as chopping vegetables or cooking grains, ahead of time, as this can save both time and money.
- Use affordable proteins like beans, eggs, and nut butters. Also, choose cost-effective whole grains and seasonal produce; this way, you can make healthy and tasty school lunches without overspending.
Lunchbox ideas for kids
When packing lunchboxes for your little ones, consider their unique needs and preferences. Tailor your child-friendly lunchbox treats to their age, appetite, and any dietary restrictions. This way, they'll enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal at school or nursery.
Lunchbox ideas for picky eaters
If your child is a picky eater, don’t worry. Try these strategies to make their lunchbox more appealing…
● Cut sandwiches and fruits into fun shapes using cookie cutters
● Include a variety of colours and textures to make the meal visually exciting
● Pack small portions of their favourite dips like hummus or yoghurt
● Involve them in choosing and preparing their lunchbox items
Allergy-friendly lunchbox options
If your little one has a food allergy or intolerance, it's important to pack safe and suitable lunchbox options…
● Gluten-free bread or wraps with nut-free spreads
● Dairy-free cheese or yoghurt alternatives
● Egg-free mayonnaise or hummus for sandwiches
● Fresh fruits and veggies that are safe for their specific allergy
Rounding off…
From simple sandwiches and quick wraps to protein-packed meals and snacks, there are a whole host of delicious foods you can pack in your little one’s lunchbox. Whether they’re off to nursery or school, a healthy meal gives your little one the energy and focus they need.