Here are 20 tips that I remember from my childhood, from packing adventure lunches for homeschool, from packing my hubby's lunch, and things I just think will work!
1. Gather your supplies. Stock up on Ziploc bags, brown paper bags, saran wrap, etc. If you are using reusable items like I plan to, be sure to have everything you need on hand. It wouldn't hurt to have a box of Ziploc bags just in case though. Stephen Joseph Gifts has adorable coordinating lunch packing supplies. They have everything you need in one stop!
2. Put all of your supplies in a basket that you can easily move to your work station or store them close to your work station. Include a sharpie- you never know when you need to write on something and this way it is handy. We actually keep a couple in the kitchen drawer for easy access.
3. Label everything that you are using that is reusable so that it comes back home.
4. Make sure your little can open all of these items before you use them.
5. Stock up on snack items and other add-ins that your child loves. (Back to school sales and holiday items are a great way to stock up)
6. Use leftovers whenever possible, especially when it is a food your child loves.
7. Find out if there is a way for your child to get their food heated or if they have to do it themselves. If they have to do it themselves, make sure this is something they can do. If they cannot get it heated, invest in a good thermal container.
8. Make sure everything they need for lunch (even napkins and cutlery) is in their lunchbox.
9. Invest in a good leakproof water bottle or thermos.
10. Color coordinate the supplies
11. If your child likes to share, include a few extras or they will give their lunch away. My mom always did this with me.
12. Get your child involved in the process from planning, shopping, to prepare.
13. Find a few options for each part of lunch (entree, snack, dessert, veggie, fruit, etc) and keep those on hand. Choose between those for easy packing.
14. Check each week to see which days you may need to pack a lunch.
15. Keep a stash of note cards and a pen in your supplies to jot a note to them. It will brighten their day. My mom always left me notes- especially on field trip days when she couldn't come along.
16. Make their lunch fun. I'm not saying they have to be "Pinterest ready," just as long as your child gets enjoyment out of it, that is what counts.
17. Does your child have allergies or food sensitivities? Make sure this is labeled on their lunch supplies. Maybe also include an EpiPen or Benedryl in their lunch pack if the school allows. Easy access is always for the best.
18. Just in case your child forgets their lunch or you forget to pack it, make sure they always have lunch money in their backpack. You don't want them to be without food.
19. Make sure your child's lunchbox is easy for them to open and to carry. If it cannot be attached to the backpack, a shoulder strap might be useful so that it doesn't get left in the car or bus.
20. Find out if there are any rules at your child's school about lunches brought from home. Some schools have banned peanut items.
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