Stumped on what to pack in your kiddo’s lunch that’s both nutritious and practical? Keep reading! And don’t worry if you’ve got a toddler to feed–we know it can be tricky sometimes, but we’re here to help.
First and foremost, your child is going to need a good lunch box. We recommend the Bentgo Box, which is a bento-style, leak-proof lunch box with designated compartments sized to fit your child’s appetite.
When packing a toddler’s lunch, you want to make sure that nothing is too tricky to open, unwrap or chew. Here are some main course ideas that keep that in mind! All of these options are suitable for/ could be modified for older children, too.
Pasta Salad
Cook up some pasta and mix in some dressing, veggies and maybe even a diced hard-boiled egg! Really any pasta is a yummy option so if you have leftovers from dinner, you could always pack it for their lunch the next day.
Yogurt Parfait
Yogurt, granola, banana coins, and berries. If you’re not a fan of flavored yogurt, you can always sweeten it yourself with some honey.
Homemade Lunchables
A healthier alternative! Pack whole wheat crackers, sliced cheese, and deli meat for the perfect combo.
Make Your Own Pizza
Let your child make their own pizza by packing cut-up pieces of flatbread, mozzarella, and marinara in their lunchbox!
Sun Butter and Banana Roll-Ups
Spread some sun butter on a whole wheat tortilla, wrap a banana in it, and cut into more manageable pieces.
Deconstructed Tacos
Just like it sounds! Cut up a tortilla and include all the usual taco ingredients on the side: beef or beans, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and a guacamole cup.
Deconstructed Chicken Wrap
Same thing! Cut up a tortilla and include shredded rotisserie chicken, cheese, and lettuce on the side.
Chicken Salad
Put it on a sandwich or use it as a dip for crackers.
Hummus Platter
Pack sliced pita bread, carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, and hummus!
Breakfast for Lunch
Cut up a waffle or pancake and pack a little syrup for dipping.
LOOKING FOR SIDE AND DESSERT IDEAS? HERE IS A COMPLETE LIST:
Non-perishables
- Granola bars
- Veggie straws
- Graham crackers
- Pretzels
- Banana chips
- Tortilla chips
- Popcorn
- Cheerios or another low-sugar cereal
- Rice cakes
- Dried fruit
- Fruit snacks
- Granola
Fruit
- Clementine (peeled)
- Grapes (halved)
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Apple slices
- Banana coins
- Apple sauce
- Fruit cup
Veggies
- Carrots
- Cucumbers
- Celery
- Cherry tomatoes
- Bell peppers
Dips
- Hummus
- Guacamole
- Salsa
- Healthy veggie dip: Greek yogurt and ranch or dill seasoning
- Homemade fruit dip: Greek yogurt, sun butter, and honey
Healthy Baked Goods
- Banana bread/muffins
- Zucchini bread/muffins
- No-bake energy bites
- Oatmeal cookies
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