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Healthy Lunches and Snacks to Pack for School

Your child needs regular meals and snacks to fuel physical activity, and to promote growth and development. To prevent the lunch you've prepared for your child from coming home in the bottom of your child's lunch bag uneaten involve your child in the planning and preparation of the meal. Children are more likely to eat foods they have chosen and had a part in preparing. Use this opportunity to teach your child about proper nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet. Offer variety. Try to include the four food groups: diary, meat and alternatives, fruits and vegetables, and breads. Send drinks like water and 100% fruit juice. Juices labeled as "punches", "cocktails", "…ades", and "beverage" are likely full of sugar and should be avoided. Serving a beverage that is labeled 100% fruit juice is considered one fruit serving according to the Canadian Food Guide recommendations. Keep foods that require refrigeration at safe temperatures by using an insulated lunch container and ice packs or a thermos type container. Bacteria can grow in the danger zone between 4°C and 60°C (40ºF to 140°F). Keep cold foods at or below 4°C to ensure that these foods are safe for your child to eat. Keep hot foods at the right temperature to be enjoyed by your child through the use of thermoses. Check to see if a school milk program is available at your child's school.

****Remember to check your child's school's policy on peanut butter and nut products. If your child has a peanut or other serious allergy ensure the school is prepared.

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