School is right around the corner and it’s time to kick your lunch packing game into gear! It can be hard to come up with school lunch ideas and healthy foods that your kids will actually eat, and then there’s the added challenge of packing the food to stay fresh for hours. Factor in food allergies, picky eating, short lunch periods, and not wanting to waste food and sheesh, it can be downright overwhelming. The good news? We have five of our favorite tips that’ll make the process a little easier…

1. Equip Yourself

No one wants a mushed up sandwich or cold soup. Investing in a quality lunchbox, thermos, or even a few ice packs can make all the difference! Pro tip: If you don’t have an ice pack, you can freeze Little Spoon Smoothies! We find that insulated, soft-sided lunch boxes or bags are best, but metal, plastic or paper bags can also be used too. If you’re using paper lunch bags, be sure to create layers by double bagging to help insulate the food and avoid leakage. Our favorite lunchbox? Obviously the Little Spoon Insulated Lunchbox.

2. Make a plan

Feeling strapped for time? We get it. Planning and prepping your mini’s lunch the night before can give you hours back every morning. First, prep and/or cook the lunch and put it in a wiped down lunchbox so it’s easy to grab out of the fridge. Second, fill up a water bottle and place it in the fridge. Third, grab the lunchbox and water bottle from the fridge in the AM and your kiddo is well on their way. Looking for an even faster solution? May we suggest Little Spoon. 

3. Pack smart

When it comes to school lunches, pack the food you know your kids will actually eat and enjoy, not the food you would like them to eat. For example, you want them to eat kale but not only does it not transfer well but kale can feel boring for a kiddo. Unless, you pack Little Spoon’s Whole Wheat Penne and Kale Turkey Meatballs which is not only a picky-eater favorite, but tastes like pasta and meatballs with all the hidden veggies, superfoods and kale! You’re welcome. And when in doubt, always add their favorite snack. 

4. Get your kiddo involved

Making lunch alone can be boring, so grab a helping hand from your little one! Once you’ve prepped the items, they can easily grab and organize it in their lunchbox the way they like. Letting them build their own lunch is also a great way to ensure they’ll *actually* eat at school. We recommend giving your child a list of foods, taking them on your grocery shopping trip and offering them a variety of different foods to try. 

5. Dress it up

Make your mini feel extra special everyday by adding a little note in their lunchbox. Whether it’s a drawing or  hand-written letter, it’s such a great way to keep lunch fun, engaging and keeping them happy throughout the day.