How to Pack Your Own Healthy School Lunch

A step-by-step guide for kids to build a balanced, delicious school lunch they will actually want to eat. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Choose your main item. Start with the biggest part of your meal. This could be a turkey and cheese sandwich, a hummus wrap, or even leftovers from last night's dinner. Place it in your largest container.
2. Add your crunch and color. Pick a vegetable. If you are using a whole carrot or cucumber, ask a grown-up to help you slice them into sticks. Place these in a small container so they stay crunchy.
3. Pack your fuel and fruit. Add a protein snack to keep your energy steady, like a cheese stick or some sunflower seeds. Then, add your fruit. If you are packing something soft like berries, put them in a container so they don't get squished.
4. Keep it cool. Place your containers inside your lunch bag. Slide your ice pack in next to the items that need to stay cold, like your protein or dairy. Zip it up and you are ready for school!