Getting your toddler to empty lunch his or her lunchbox can be quite a task. Some kids are not even used to eating on their own.The best way to start developing an interest in his lunchbox is to start with finger foods that appeal to him. If you’re worrying about the nutritional aspect of it, don’t worry, as a couple of walnuts or carrot sticks will provide the same nutrition as a bowl of pasta or a sandwich. Try to pack the box with what your child likes to eat.
Tips to keep in mind while packing the lunchbox:
- Make it visually appealing.
- Separate wet and dry foods in separate containers.
- Add color by mixing two contrast colour foods.
- Cut foods in various shapes.
- Make up funny names for the contents.
- Involve the child in the making of his box.
- Add a surprise element once in a while.
- Don’t not be too repetitive, as kids also get bored of eating too much of the same thing.
Here are some fun foods that can get your toddler to enjoy his snack time at school:
- Cheese sticks or cubes – Packed with protein, cheese cut into cubes and sticks will keep your child going till late.
- Fruit kebabs – Chop up fruits and poke them with skewers.
- Dry fruits and nuts – Make your own fun mix of dry fruits, nuts and popcorn.
- Cereal like honey loops or crunchies – Whole grain cereal is a power packed snack to get through the day.
- Vegetable sticks – Celery, carrot and cucumber sticks are a favorite among toddlers. Broccoli and cauliflower florets are healthy treats too.
- Granular bar – If you’re out of time and don’t have time to prepare your tot’s lunchbox, don’t fret. Granola bars will provide all the energy that he or she needs till dinner time.
- Shaped sandwiches – Make your sandwiches more interesting. Cut them into fun shapes like stars or hearts or make them into pinwheels, with interesting stuffing’s.
- Smoothies – Instead of water, pack a smoothie in a thermos and see how it comes back empty.
- Vegetable topped pizza – Mini pizza are an attractive way to get your kid get their does of carb’s, vegetables and protein.
- Bread sticks – Homemade bread sticks, topped with cheese and herbs are yummy and make them want more.
- Muffins – Bake some muffins. The best part is, you can sneak in some stuff that your child will not eat.
- Pasta – A healthy snack that can never be turned down by toddlers is pasta. Make the pasta a day earlier and just toss in the sauce and veggies just before you pack the box.
Ask your kids what their friends bring for snack time and get ideas. All kids have different tastes. If your toddler still is fussy, keep trying to get him excited. As long as he or she is healthy, don’t worry too much.
Written by: Rasha Ashraf