Packing a lunch is smart in so many ways. First, without having to stand in line it gives children more time to eat or at least least feel less rushed. This is important given the shortened lunch times. Second, you have a pretty good idea of what they are/are not eating, with clues from what’s left in their lunchbox. Third, you can save money in the long run. We generally pack left overs or use items we typically have on hand just for lunchboxes. I figure that we spend the same or less and provide much higher quality food than the school can offer. Fourth, better lunch means better grades.

We use a lunchbox system called bento, and there are lots of other options out there that are similar in function. You open the box and everything is right there–no opening of packages or baggies so items don’t get get lost. Also great for optimizing the time in the lunch room.

happy lunching…