Childhood obesity rates have skyrocketed over the past 30 years. Right now, one-third of American kids are overweight or obese. Since most kids consume half their daily calories at school, healthy eating habits must be addressed both at home and in the classroom. Start your quest for healthier living by re-evaluating your child’s lunchbox. Here are some tips to keep your child excited about eating a healthy lunch.
Make a bento box.
Instead of packing the traditional entrée and sides, make lunch out of small snacks in a multi-compartment box. Hardboiled eggs, raisins, an apple or other fresh fruit, crackers, tuna fish, pasta salad, veggies, dips and more.
Travel the world.
Go with an international theme each day, such as Mexican, Asian or Italian. Include an educational note about the meal’s origin.
Include a surprise.
Kids love surprises, such as favorite photos, stickers or a reminder about an upcoming event. A lunch box surprise can make your child’s day extra special.
There are some trends not worth following -- and an unhealthy lifestyle is one of them. With the right tools and tricks, you can be a positive influence on your kids’ health.