However, while it is a simple and easy enough task, there are a few things that you really should do and a few that you really, really shouldn’t.
Do:
1. Use leftovers
Pasta, chicken or even homemade pizza taste pretty good when they are cold, so don’t let them go to waste.
2. Be creative
You don’t need to just give them ham sandwiches – wraps, pittas, or a cold salad are healthier alternatives.
3. Make it fun
We all remember the typical cheese sandwich, apple and bar of chocolate we were given as kids, but there is so much more you can do. Create a superman theme, use a shape cutter or turn it into a puzzle, anything to make it a little more fun.
4. Reuse water bottles
Buying cartons of juice on a weekly basis can become quite expensive so stick with a reusable water bottle. Pick up a fancy sports one and your little one will graciously accept it as replacement of their favourite juice.
5. Consider their age
Don’t pop an orange into their bag if they can’t open it or a yoghurt that you know will just end up all over their uniform.
Don’t:
1. Stress about it
Stop stressing about it – at the end of the day you are only making your child’s lunch, not a banquet for the Queen.
2. Put in sweets or treats
Your child does not need that cake or the chocolate bar, in fact, if you don’t put it in they will more than likely eat that apple or their crusts.
3. Ask your child what they want
They’ll obviously reply with chocolate and crisps, instead give them a few choices.
4. Reuse what they come home with
That half eaten cheese sandwich will not make a great lunch for tomorrow – bacteria thrive in warm, crumb-filled boxes.
5. Put in too much
You don’t need to fill your child’s lunchbox with food, just make sure you are given them enough to get them through the day and any afterschool activities.
