This summer is flying by. I can’t believe August is just around the corner. If you are like me, you are probably starting to gear up for school purchasing back packs, clothes, supplies, and the like. While we have had an amazing summer, I’m sure I’m not the only one that is a little excited to send the kiddos back to school. That being said, I am NOT excited to get back to waking up early, worrying about homework, and last but not least making school lunches!! The hassle of getting them made is definitely complicated by my desire to feed healthy, wholesome meals that my kids will actually eat. So in an effort to set everyone (including myself) up for success, here are several Dr. Brown approved ideas for school lunch (plus a handy printable chart!)
Entrée Options:
In order to stay focused in school, my kids need a lot of protein for the sustained energy it provides. This can be tricky given most of the time they aren’t in the mood for dinner leftovers served up in a thermos. So over the years we have gotten creative and found some options that do the job. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Build-Your-Own Paleo Pizza
- 2 Mini Paleo Pizza Crusts
- Shredded Manchego or Goat Cheese
- Organic Pizza Sauce
- Uncured Turkey Pepperonis
2. Sliced Uncured Organic Deli Meat
- Turkey
- Chicken
- Roast Beef
- Beef Salami
- Turkey pepperonis
3. Deli Meat Roll-Ups
Any of the above deli meats rolled up with sliced goat or sheep cheese.
4. Sandwich, Wrap, or Lettuce Wrap
Bread/Shell options:
- Gluten free/ paleo bread
- Siete Tortillas
- Butter lettuce
Protein options:
- Any of the deli meats above with or without cheese, mustard, or paleo mayo
- Chicken Salad
- Tuna Salad
- Egg Salad
- Turkey BLT
- Nut butter (cashew, almond, or sunflower) and jelly
6. Hot Dogs
7. Boiled Eggs/ Deviled Eggs
Side Options:
1. Veggies with Paleo Ranch or Paleo Hummus*
*Celia swears this is a thing, but it hasn’t made its way to the Instacart website or my pantry yet. She says she saw it at Whole Foods. I will add a pic when I can. I still can’t figure out how they make a hummus without chickpeas, but I trust her. =)
2. Sliced Cucumbers with Red Wine Vinegar
3. Celery sticks with Nut Butter
4. Sheep yogurt*
*Add sliced fruit, paleo granola or sliced nuts, and a little pure maple syrup for a real treat!
5. Dr. Brown Approved Chips
6. Dr. Brown Approved Crackers
7. Fruit with or without Nut Butter
Below is a handy chart you can print out and laminate, so your kiddos can choose their weekly menu. I’ve found that when they have some control over their choices, they eat better! Please feel free to comment with any go-to sack lunch menu items. I’m always looking for more ideas!
Hopefully this comprehensive list of healthy Dr. Brown and kid-approved foods will get you off to a good start this school year.
Enjoy these last few weeks of summer break!!
