Healthy lunch boxes for children

Plant fruit & veg in your lunchboxHealthy lunches and snacks are important for children and help with concentration and learning. Healthy eating changes are not always easy to make. Try to set a good example with your own lunches. Encourage children to be involved in their own lunch preparation, and their choices about foods to include. Praise your child when they choose healthy foods for the lunch box.

There are limited times for children to eat during the day, especially at school. Children may prefer to play with friends instead of eating. Encourage your child to sit and eat before heading out to play, or talk to your school about making sure all children get a chance to eat enough before play starts.

Six items to put in a lunch box

* Vegetables
* Fresh fruit
* Dairy food – cheese or yoghurt
* Protein food – slice of lean meat, hard-boiled egg or beans
* Starchy food – bread, roll, pita or flat bread, fruit bread or crackers
* Water.

Food suggestions
There are endless food choices available for lunch boxes....