Magazine_Autumn2020_FINAL_09.22.20.indd

want contribute to the waste. I wanted a reusable container that separated the foods, as he (and most kids) like them to be. I found containers that come in three parts called Bento boxes... genius. They are BPA free, come in fun colors and use one lid, a parent’s dream. The only problem was that the new bento box did not fit into Liam’s current ninja cooler. Luckily, this year I was delighted to see the coolers got longer and are perfect for my new compartmentalized packs. Now we have to figure out what to fill these 3 empty container spaces with for the entire school year. I could pack the ideal lunch that I want Liam to eat or I could pack the lunch I know he will eat — this is where the delicate balance comes in. I believe it helps to have a variety of foods you know your child will eat and involve them in the process of selecting those foods. This is where listening to your kids and watching the foods they naturally gravitate to comes into play. Of my choices, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, hummus, pita, cheese, shredded chicken, melon, even raw broccoli (so proud) are among his favorites. He also loves packaged chips, chocolate, pretzels, candy and crackers when he can get a hold of these lovely treats. In the interest of balance, these now become the treats I can throw in his box on occasion with a fun note! To get new ideas, get your kids involved by taking them to the store (staying on the perimeter of the store where the healthier stuff is) and then have them jump in and help with making the lunches. If you’re too grumpy in the mornings (like in my case) then pack lunch together the night before as a way to spend time and wind down. The following are some of our favorite easy ideas for Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks! Continued on next page. Nutrition Quarterly · 2020 – Volume 4 19 The Good Life