Does your child’s lunchbox keep coming back full, even when you send foods you know they enjoy? You’re definitely not alone. As a dietitian and mom of two, I have been packing lunches for almost a decade. I’ve seen my share of uneaten school lunches, and I know how frustrating it can be when food comes home barely touched.
Here’s the thing: even the most adventurous little eaters don’t eat all their school lunch. It happens (for many reasons), and it doesn’t mean that you’re doing something wrong.
In our new book, Feeding Littles Lunches, we share why kids don’t always eat their lunch and what you can do about it. Read on for some of our favorite tips.
Reasons why kids may not eat their packed lunch—and tips to help
1. Know that the school lunch environment is unlike any other place
Kids don’t get a lot of time to eat, and they are usually busy socializing or trying to get to the playground fast. Food often takes a backseat. This is so normal. Expect them to be hungry when their day ends, especially for the first few weeks of school as they settle into a new routine.
2. On that note…have a hearty snack ready when you pick them up
No matter what time school ends or when they had lunch, kids are inevitably starving at pickup. This will be especially true for children who struggle with lunchtime. Have a hearty snack—one that contains some protein and fat like crackers and cheese—at pickup.
3. Offer a little variety every day
Packing foods we know our child likes is awesome, but sometimes it gets a little boring when they see the same things over and over. Plus, kids learn to eat variety by seeing variety, so any time you can pack something a little different, you might pique their interest. You don’t have to buy out the grocery store to do this effectively—simply offer something different than the day before when you can. If you normally send a bagel with cream cheese, try a bagel with sunflower seed butter. Swap baby carrots for their cucumber slices. Small changes go a long way.
4. Let them help you pack
When kids have buy-in on the lunch process, they’re more likely to eat their food. Let them choose which sides to prep, help them wash produce and give them a safety knife to cut fruit. You might find that their lunchbox comes back a little less full when they’re part of the process.
5. Make sure they can open all of their gear and packages
Sometimes kids don’t eat their lunches because they can’t access them. Preschool teachers generally help students open up their lunches, but once kids get to elementary school they are usually on their own. Practice opening up lunchboxes and small containers before school starts. Instead of sending pre-packed food or fruit with the peel on (like mandarin oranges), place all food in different sealed compartments of your child’s lunchbox so they don’t have to spend time peeling or unwrapping it.
6. Try a little novelty
Sometimes cutting their sandwich with a cookie cutter or sending a Bento pick for their blueberries (as long as it’s age-appropriate) can make all the difference when it comes to eating well at school or daycare. No, you don’t have to turn into a Pinterest parent or cut every piece of food into cute shapes. It’s unrealistic for most families, However, a cookie cutter turkey sandwich takes a few extra seconds to prep and works wonders with reluctant eaters.
7. Talk to your child—and their teachers
Why are they not eating lunch? Is there a social or behavioral issue affecting their ability to eat successfully? Are there other foods they want to try? (This is where our book Feeding Littles Lunches is very handy—every lunch contains a full-page photo so you can look through it with your child!) If they are non-verbal or are too young to share their experience, talk to their teacher. You might be surprised by what you learn. Note: in most elementary schools, teachers are not in the cafeteria—you might want to speak with a cafeteria employee who supervises eating time.
8. Give it some time
Kids learn to eat by modeling those around them and being exposed to new foods over and over again. School lunch offers a great opportunity for this, but it can take time. Be patient and give your little one some grace. They will get into their groove in no time!
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