Back to school, already? It always happens so fast, doesn’t it? One day you are shopping for easy pool snacks and popsicles, the next day you are reading through the back-to-school supplies list. While you’re securing all the items on the school supply list, don’t forget to pick up the essentials for packing easy lunches, starting with a delicious loaf of bread for that first day of school sandwich. Plus, with a little planning, your school lunches can get an upgrade from functional to fantastic. You’ll have your kids looking forward to their lunch break in no time.
Best Variety of School Lunch Sandwiches
The school lunch sandwich is a staple of childhood. Who doesn’t remember digging into your lunch box to find their sandwich to dig into as you chatted with your pals at the lunch table? Of course, some sandwiches were better than others. (Remember the way grape jelly made the bread soggy? Pro tip: use honey on your nut butter sandwiches. Much less sog.) Mix up your sandwich-making strategy this year by adding some variety! Switch your choice of bread to sourdough for kids as a better-for-you sandwich foundation, or try to rotate vegetarian options to offer a wider variety of flavor and nutrition to your kiddos. For some serious sandwich inspiration, check out this recent post for more ideas.
Non-Sandwich Lunch Options
Of course, sandwiches are the quintessential school lunch staple, but there are other fun ways to incorporate delicious organic bread into your kids’ school lunches. Toast nutritious organic bread and cut it into strips or triangles for dipping in hummus or guacamole for a power-packed non-sandwich option. Or, pack yummy chili or soup, and send “breadsticks” made with your favorite Inked Organics bread. (Great White, our healthy white bread, is especially good this way!)
Tasty Side for School Lunches
Give your kids a delicious and healthful side of frozen fruit salad. Simply mix their favorite frozen fruits in a small thermos, or in a reusable container with an added freezer pack. Larger pieces of fruit stay frozen longer than berries, so lean toward pineapple, peach slices or unsliced strawberries to make sure the fruit is still nice and frosty come lunchtime. Looking to save some weekday time? Pre-fill several containers with frozen fruit and have them ready in the freezer for easy lunch packing during the week. For 11 other side item ideas, check out our 11 Healthy Sides to Pair with your Sandwich blog.
Special Details for School Lunches
A special something in your kiddo’s lunch box will give them a little lift midway through their school day. Whether it’s a sweet note, a small piece of chocolate or another surprise that will make them smile, you’ll be glad you took a moment to add a special detail to their school lunch.
And, if you have a little one who will appreciate it, perhaps take some inspiration from the Breakfasteur for an artful interpretation of lunch on the first day of school. That effort does not fall under the easy category, but is extra points for making your kiddo smile on their first day at the lunch table!
This year, boost your kids’ school day with great packed lunches! Pack their mid-day meal with nutritious options that will give them the energy they need to finish their school day strong. Find your favorite loaf of Inked Organics bread at your local grocery store, LA area Costcos, and more locations added every week! And, as usual, if you’re proud of a sandwich you create, give us a shout on Instagram using #thatsmybread!