Kid Friendly Lunch Ideas
Our comprehensive list of healthful sandwich fillings, ideas for non-sandwich lunches,
inspirations for the thermos, snack suggestions, and more!
Undercover Fruits and Veggies!
Practical suggestions for sneaking fruits
and vegetables into your child’s daily routine.
Interview with Robin
Robin shares her thoughts on kids’ nutrition, children’s eating habits, and the
role parents play in healthful diets.
In Search of the Perfect Food
Kids can be picky eaters. If your child will only eat one or two foods, which foods
should they be? Is there a perfect food? Read our article for the answer.
 A
Drinkable Energy Treat
Smoothies are the perfect refreshment for kids on the go - only minutes to make
and full of vitamins and calcium. Try blending one up today!
In a blender combine plain low fat yogurt and fruit. Add low fat milk until desired
consistency. Ice may be added for texture.
Fruit suggestions:
- Bananas
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Mango
- Pineapple
- Peaches
- Watermelon
- Kiwi
Flavor combinations:
- Banana-Berry (banana, strawberry, blueberry, raspberry)
- Tropical (banana, pineapple, mango)
- Citrus (banana, kiwi, orange)
For added nutrition:
For enhanced flavor:
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
- Honey
- Flavored yogurts, such as vanilla
Snack Pizzas
An easy pick-me-up the kids are sure to love. Simply slice a whole wheat bagel or
English muffin in half, drizzle a bit of olive oil, spread low-sodium tomato sauce,
sprinkle spices such as basil and oregano, and top with your favorite toppings.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes at 375 degrees F and enjoy!
Topping Ideas:
- Low-fat shredded cheese
- Steamed spinach (simply reheat frozen spinach)
- Sliced mushrooms (sautéed, preferably)
- Sliced peppers (red, orange, yellow, or green bell)
- Fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, dill, and cilantro
Kids’ Nutrition is sponsored by:
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Sitting down at the table together is among the best ways for families to grow and
bond. Eating together not only teaches children life-long healthful eating habits,
but also helps them learn to be patient, communicate better, and express their thoughts.
Need one more reason to keep fruit easily available to kids? A recent study found that
when cafeteria workers asked elementary school children if they wanted fruit or
juice with their lunch, the children usually took one or the other and actually
consumed it. To make it extra appealing for kids, keep cut and cleaned produce at
eye-level in the refrigerator, or keep a big bowl of fruit on the table.
Parents can help shape their children’s eating habits. When parents eat a variety
of foods that are low in fat and sugar and high in fiber, children learn to like
these foods as well.
Children who eat a diet rich in whole grain products and fish appear to have a reduced
risk of developing asthma, according to a recent study. |