CHICAGO – Back to school means coming up with creative, nutritious ideas for your child’s lunch that they will actually want to eat. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends parents and children team up to pack a lunch they’ll love.
“Children enjoy being given the responsibility, so they’ll be more likely to eat a lunch they’ve helped plan,” said registered dietitian nutritionist and Academy Spokesperson Whitney Linsenmeyer.
“You and your child should agree on what goes into every lunch: some protein, a grain, at least one fruit and one vegetable, a calcium-rich dairy product or beverage and perhaps a small sweet or additional snack,” Linsenmeyer said. “Make a checklist or spreadsheet of what your child likes in each category to help you stay on track.”