Healthy Kids Lunch : DIY Lunchables

For most parents in San Antonio and Austin, the first couple of days of school are behind us. We are all settling back into the routine of the new school year, and part of that routine may be packing a healthy lunch for your child everyday.
The thing about routines is that they can get boring, right? Eating the same things week after week is one routine kids can get tired of really quickly. So we set out to find some creative healthy lunch ideas that your kids will love. You will love them too because they are simple to make: DIY Lunchables.
Most kids I know love Lunchables. They are fun to eat, but usually have a sugary treat and a sugar-filled drink in them. All that sugar can be bad for your child. We found a few alternatives that are still lots of fun without lots of sugar!

This first version uses some silicone cupcake holders and a few little accents on the berries to make an ordinary lunch a whole lot of fun. The lunch itself is just pepperoni, cheese, crackers, carrots, raspberries and some oatmeal squares. What sets it apart is the color and presentation. Take a few minutes to add a little flair to your kids lunch and it becomes much more than ordinary!
Find more great lunch ideas like this at http://happyfoodhealthylife.com/2013/08/07/3-fun-school-lunch-ideas/.

This next lunch takes a different approach and looks much more natural but equally as appetizing as the first. The hard salami, cheese and crackers are arranged on a bed of greens to give it a healthy, gourmet look. Mixed berries and veggies add some more natural color. The arrangement is so appealing, your kids won’t notice that most of their lunch is just fruit and veggies!
Find more out about this lunch project at http://www.familyfreshcooking.com/2012/01/05/diy-lunchables-for-project-lunchbox-salami-cheese/.

The final DIY Lunchable takes the idea to a whole other level: a lunchable jar. This is a great way to pair fruit, crackers, or cereal with a delicious dip. Or, it is a great way for your child to enjoy granola and yogurt without anything getting soggy. The thing I love most here is that there is no garbage to throw out when you are done. Healthy and enviro-friendly, love it!
This is such a neat idea. Head over to http://saynotsweetanne.com/2012/diy-lunchable-jar-free-printable/ for a free printable on how to make your own lunchable jars, and for some more great ideas on how to fill them!