Healthy school lunch ideas that kids will actually eat

As any parent knows, packing a healthy school lunch is only half the battle. Getting your child to actually eat it is the real challenge. If you’ve ever unpacked a lunchbox full of untouched carrots and soggy sandwiches, you’re not alone.

But healthy lunches don’t have to be bland, boring or a daily battleground. In this post, we’re giving you some lunchtime inspiration that your child will actually enjoy, with the added bonus of being packed with nutrients.

Bento Box Style Lunches

Bento boxes are a brilliant option because kids love variety and smaller portions they can mix and match. They’re much less overwhelming than one big sandwich and finger food always feels more fun.

You can tailor the elements to suit what your child enjoys and what you have in the cupboards. Aim for a mix of protein, fruit or veg, and whole grain carbohydrates.

Here’s one easy combination to try:

• Sliced turkey or hard boiled eggs

• Whole grain crackers or mini pittas

• Cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes

• A small fruit cup or apple slices

• One or two Dung Balls for a fun, healthy dessert

DIY Lunchables (without the odd additives)

Build your own lunches are always a hit. They make lunchtime more interactive, which helps keep children focused on their food. Just like any balanced meal, include a protein source, some fruit or vegetables and whole grains. You can swap out ingredients easily based on your child’s preferences.

Here’s a simple idea to get started:

• Sliced cheese or cheese cubes

• Lean ham or shredded chicken

• Whole grain wraps or crackers

• Carrot sticks or pepper strips

Shape Cut-Out Sandwiches

This is a fun and easy way to jazz up a regular sandwich. Simply make one your child enjoys, then use a cookie cutter to cut it into shapes. It’s a great activity to do together and adds a playful twist to lunchtime. Try using cutters shaped like animals, stars or even their favourite characters.

You can also try this with so many other types of foods, fruit like apples or watermelon work great!

Rainbow Veggie Wraps

These are a colourful and fun way to get more veg into your child’s day. They’re especially good when you're on the go and need something they can eat without too much mess (in theory, at least).

Use a whole grain tortilla and fill it with:

• Shredded carrots

• Hummus or cream cheese

• Sliced ham or turkey

• Sliced cucumber

• Avocado

• Baby spinach

Roll it up and slice into pinwheels. Pair with a small pot of yoghurt dip or their favourite sauce for a fun twist.

Top Tips for School Lunch Success

1. Get kids involved in choosing items
Letting your child help choose what goes into their lunchbox gives them a sense of control and makes them more likely to eat it. You could even create a mini menu at home so they can pick one item from each category – protein, grain, fruit, veg and a treat.

Taking them food shopping and letting them select lunch friendly options is another great way to involve them.

2. Avoid new or unfamiliar foods at school
Lunchtime at school isn’t the best time to try something brand new. Stick to familiar favourites you know they’ll eat. If you want to introduce something different, test it at home first so there are no surprises in their lunchbox.

3. Keep it simple and balanced
Aim for a combination of protein, whole grains, fruit or veg, and one fun treat. A balanced lunch keeps them energised for learning and play. Some easy options include:

• Protein: turkey roll-ups, hummus, boiled eggs, shredded chicken

• Whole grains: whole wheat pitta, brown rice, whole grain crackers

• Fruit and veg: apple slices, baby carrots, grapes, cucumber sticks

• Treat: a biscuit, a few chocolate chips or a couple of Dung Balls (a name guaranteed to make them giggle)

When lunch feels fun and familiar, there’s a much better chance you’ll see an empty lunchbox at the end of the day.

Heads up: Düng Balls contain nuts (walnuts to be precise), so double check your school’s nut policy before including them in packed lunches.

Final Thoughts

Healthy lunches shouldn’t feel like a chore, for you or your child. With a little planning, and a  dash of creativity, you can turn stressful mornings into smooth ones and pack a lunch that actually gets eaten.