Home school :: Home lunch :: Made Easy

It's official, you are officially your child's parent, teacher, and personal cafeteria for the next 6 weeks! It's not easy adding more to your already overflowing plate, so let me help you make it easier. Now, that you all have created your daily schedule with your kids, don't forget to add in a  "home economic class" (a.k.a food prep time) a few times a week. 

MEAL PREP! I know it sounds simple and it really can be! The key to meal and snack prep for your kids is getting them involved. Imagine, not having to make each member's lunch everyday and an added bonus, stop the blame game. If your child picks and packs their lunch, they can't blame you when they made it and picked it for themselves!

What are kid's favorite lunches? LUNCHABLES, of course. No problem, don't spend money on the prepackaged stuff, you and your family can make it yourselves in 3 easy steps. 

 1. Purchase some sectioned off containers and have your kids pack it themselves. Don't forget to have them write their names on the container, so they don't fight over who's is who's (because we all know they will). 
2. Lay out a spread of healthy goodies - crackers, nuts, cheese slices, cut up fruits and veggies.  Have each kid pack their own containers. And Waa-laa!
3. Storage. Make sure it is in an area that is easy for them to reach and grab them. If possible, maybe clear out one of your veggie drawer or make room on your lowest shelf in the fridge. Designated their food zone for their premade meals or other healthy snacks (cuties, yogurt, string cheese). You can also have a basket or bin on a counter or in your pantry for nonperishable approved snacks (popcorn, granola bars, trail mix, goldfish). 

Other meal prep ideas - premade sandwiches, wraps, bento with leftovers from the night before. (Hint - keep it to things that don't need to be warmed up to ensure they can completely be in charge of their lunch on their own). 
Fun in the kitchen - as another activity, you can also bake with your kids, have them decorate a plain apron and while their sweet treat for their meal is baking, they can pack up their meals. 

**If you want to be extra and extend the home economic class, have cookie cutters ready and have your kids cut out their food (sandwiches, cheese slices, quesadilla) in their favorite shapes. 

Let me know how your home economic class goes! I am sure other parents would love some of the great ideas and meals you and your family have made together.