Good lunch boxes are based on 4 things: here’s how parents can prepare healthy food and keep costs down

Clare Dix and Stella Boyd Ford

Heading back to school is a time of great anticipation for many families, but it is not without challenges. One of the big challenges is preparing healthy, easy, affordable and appealing lunchboxes.

Lunchboxes are vital for supporting children’s energy levels throughout the school day, which in turn helps maintain their concentration.

What does a healthy lunchbox contain? How can you keep it fresh, while also keeping costs down?

Making a healthy lunchbox
A healthy well-balanced lunchbox should have four things:

1. food for energy: these foods have carbohydrates for energy to learn and play. This could be sandwiches, wraps, pasta or rice dishes
2. food for growth: these foods have protein to support growing bodies and minds. This could be lean meats, eggs, beans or dairy
3. food for health: these foods have vitamins and minerals to support healthy immune systems and include fruits and vegetables in