Menu | Lifestyle
By Jamie Taylor
August 26, 2021
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After a year and a half of not worrying about school lunches (or reloading meal cards—let’s be real), I can honestly say I don’t miss that chaos. But let’s not pretend that running a constantly active kitchen during the pandemic has been a walk in the park. With school starting back up on September 1st, I’m feeling the pressure to get organized—fast!
Having packed lunches for my husband and two kids for over ten years, I know I’m not alone in feeling overwhelmed. A recent survey revealed that nearly 60% of parents are stressed about back-to-school meal planning. With busy schedules, grocery shopping, and the soaring prices of food—plus the worry of our kids tossing aside the fruits and veggies that are vital for their health—it’s no wonder we’re feeling frazzled. Breathe in, breathe out. Let’s simplify lunch packing with some straightforward planning.
KISS: Keep It Simple, Sweetie
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I have to confess, I’m a bit of a nerd when it comes to creating menus. I used to plan biweekly, but that felt overwhelming lately. So, once a week, I sit down with my calendar and figure out what’s happening. With school in session for many families, it’s essential to plan for five lunches a week. My kids are picky eaters, so I’ll be packing lunches four days out of those five.
It’s easy to get lost in Pinterest-perfect meal ideas. For example, my daughters aren’t fans of kale (neither am I!), and no amount of dressing it up will make them eat it. Focus on what your kids actually like. It doesn’t matter if Karen sends her kid to school with gourmet meals; if your children won’t eat it, don’t waste your time on it.
To reduce stress, let your kids pick from a few options that they enjoy. My girls like sandwiches and salads, so each week they choose between a deli sandwich, a PB&J, or a salad. It might not be fancy, but it’s quick and easy. I often prep the night before to save time.
Keeping It Real: Lunch Shouldn’t Be Hard
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Be kind to yourself; there’s no award for how Instagram-worthy your kids’ lunch is. The goal is to ensure they’re nourished and ready to tackle the day. Pair their main dish with a bag of chips and some fruit salad made ahead of time. Being the primary planner for meals can be exhausting, but remember, schools often offer hot lunch options too. There’s nothing wrong with letting your kids eat school lunch on busy days.
Also, it’s essential to recognize that many families face food insecurity. If you’re experiencing this, federal and state resources are available to assist your child.
With everything changing over the past year and a half, it may take time for everyone to adjust back to a routine, and that’s perfectly fine. If you’re lucky enough to have kids who will eat anything, great! If not, just know that your kids will find something edible in their lunch—eventually. Even if they don’t admit it, there’s a chance they secretly enjoy that celery you packed. A mom can dream, right?
For more insights, check out one of our other blog posts here, and if you’re looking for expert advice, this site has great resources. Also, for useful information on pregnancy, visit this excellent resource.
Summary
When it comes to packing lunches, simplicity is key. By using the KISS method—keeping it simple—you can reduce stress and ensure your kids eat well. Focus on what they like, offer a few options, and don’t forget that school lunch is always an option too. Remember, it’s all about nourishing your kids without getting overwhelmed.