Back to school: The Epic Lunch Struggles Continue!
Preparing Your Family for a Healthy Back-to-School Season
I can’t even believe it but my kids started school this week. It now begins—the fights over making lunches, what to pack, and getting them to eat! As summer winds down and the school year approaches, it's the perfect time to start thinking about how to set your family up for success with nutritious meals and snacks. Healthy eating is key to keeping your kids energized, focused, and ready to tackle the new school year. How can they pay attention and focus if they aren’t fueled? Here’s how you can prepare your family with some simple yet powerful nutrition tips:
1. Start the Day with a Balanced Breakfast
Getting everyone up and out of the house can feel like an Olympic sport! Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially for growing kids who need energy and focus for school. Aim to include a balance of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep them full and focused until lunchtime.
Breakfast Ideas: sprouted-grain toast with avocado and scrambled eggs; Greek yogurt with berries and a sprinkle of nutty granola; or a smoothie made with spinach, banana, almond butter, and chia seeds.
Science-backed Tip: A balanced breakfast that includes protein, healthy fat, and fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve cognitive function, which is crucial for learning and concentration .
2. Pack Nutritious Lunches
A nutritious lunch is key to keeping your kids energized throughout the day. Avoid highly processed foods and sugary snacks that can lead to energy crashes. Instead, focus on whole foods that provide sustained energy. I love to send bento boxes with lots of variety!
Lunch Ideas: Pinwheel turkey and avocado wraps with whole grain tortillas; quinoa salad with chicken and mixed veggies; or a bento box with sliced chicken, cheese, whole grain crackers, and apple slices.
Science-backed Tip: Including a variety of whole foods in your child's lunch can help provide a balanced intake of essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which are necessary for overall health and academic performance.
3. Healthy Snacks to Keep Them Going
Healthy snacks are just as important as the main meals. Little ones, especially, have smaller tummies and need to eat more often so snacks are key! Choose snacks that are rich in nutrients and free from added sugars to keep your kids full and satisfied between meals.
Snack Ideas: Carrot sticks with hummus, apple slices with seed butter, or a bit of guacamole and seed crackers.
Science-backed Tip: Nutritious snacks that are high in fiber and protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent mid-afternoon energy crashes, supporting better mood and focus .
4. Stay Hydrated
Hydration is often overlooked, but it’s important for maintaining energy levels and overall health. Encourage your kids to drink water throughout the day, especially if they are active.
Tip: Pack a reusable water bottle in their lunchbox and remind them to refill it throughout the day. Add a slice of lemon or a few berries to make it more appealing.
Science-backed Tip: Proper hydration is essential for cognitive function and physical performance. Even mild dehydration can lead to decreased concentration and increased fatigue .
5. Involve Your Kids in Meal Planning
One of the biggest changes in getting my own kids to eat their lunches consistently was having them as part of the planning process. Getting your kids involved in meal planning and preparation can make them more excited about eating healthy. Let them pick out new fruits and veggies at the grocery store or help with packing their lunch.
Science-backed Tip: Children who are involved in food preparation are more likely to make healthier food choices and develop a positive relationship with food .
Keep It Simple!
Preparing your family for a healthy back-to-school season doesn’t have to be complicated. With a focus on balanced meals, nutritious snacks, and staying hydrated, you can set your kids up for success both in and out of the classroom. Remember, the habits you establish now can lead to a healthier and happier school year for everyone. If you feel overwhelmed and just can’t get the little ones to eat the healthy treats you put in their lunches, let’s chat! Reach out to www.noshoesnutrition.com today for a free consultation and we can dig a little deeper!
Have a great school year!
References:
Rhee, T. G., & Mattei, J. (2017). Associations between breakfast consumption and dietary quality, health outcomes, and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults in the United States: A systematic review. Advances in Nutrition, 8(5), 769-779.
Rampersaud, G. C., Pereira, M. A., Girard, B. L., Adams, J., & Metzl, J. D. (2005). Breakfast habits, nutritional status, body weight, and academic performance in children and adolescents. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 105(5), 743-760.
Walton, J., Flynn, A., & O’Connor, T. (2017). Nutritional quality of school lunches and packed lunches. British Journal of Nutrition, 117(1), 82-92.
Benton, D., & Jarvis, M. (2007). The role of breakfast and a mid-morning snack on the ability of children to concentrate at school. Physiology & Behavior, 90(2-3), 382-385.
Popkin, B. M., D'Anci, K. E., & Rosenberg, I. H. (2010). Water, hydration, and health. Nutrition Reviews, 68(8), 439-458.
Van der Horst, K., Ferrage, A., & Rytz, A. (2014). Involving children in meal preparation: Effects on food intake. Appetite, 79, 18-24.
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