Quick Tips for Healthy Back-to-School Meals
It’s Back to School time for Newburgh Families!
Plan Ahead: Set aside time on the weekend to prep breakfast and lunch options. Pre-cut fruits, batch-cook grains, and portion out snacks to save time during busy mornings.
Balanced Breakfasts: Include a mix of protein, healthy fats, and whole grains. Options like Greek yogurt with berries and granola or whole grain toast with avocado and eggs provide lasting energy.
Lunchbox Essentials: Incorporate a variety of colors with fruits, veggies, and lean proteins. Bento-style lunches with bite-sized portions of veggies, cheese, and whole grain crackers keep meals fun and nutritious.
Involve the Kids: Let your children help choose and prepare their meals. This not only teaches them about nutrition but also makes them more likely to enjoy what they eat.
Healthy Snacks: Keep a stash of easy-to-grab snacks like nuts, dried fruit, or veggie sticks with hummus. These can curb hunger between meals without the sugar crash.
Hydration Matters: Pack a reusable water bottle to keep your kids hydrated throughout the day. Consider infusing water with slices of fruit for a fun twist.
Try New Foods: School breakfast and lunch programs often offer new and different foods. Encourage your child to try something new and discuss their experiences with these foods at home. Perhaps they decided they love broccoli at school even if they turned their nose at it at home.
Seek Help When Needed: If you're having trouble getting your child to eat balanced meals, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician, nutritionist, or local support resources for guidance and strategies.
These simple strategies can help ensure your little ones have the energy and focus they need to thrive at school.
