School Lunch Ideas

What’s the Best School Lunch Box?

I’m so glad you asked! I have been a longtime fan of Bentgo lunch boxes (pictured above). They allow for easy separation of food items and have various models that feature ice pack holders.

Essential School Lunch Gear

Packing a school lunch that stays fresh and tasty requires the right gear. From sturdy lunchboxes to handy utensils, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a rundown of must-have lunch gear to ensure your child’s meals arrive at school in perfect shape and ready to enjoy.

Lunch boxes and lunch bags

1. Bentgo Box – This is my all-time favorite lunch box. It features a sleek, durable design with multiple compartments, allowing you to pack a variety of foods in one compact box.
2. Bentgo Chill Box – If you’ve got big eaters at home, the Bentgo Chill Box is a game-changer. With 5 cups of space, it’s perfect for a hearty sandwich and all the sides your kids love. I appreciate its leak-proof design, which keeps everything tidy in lunchboxes and backpacks.
3. GoBe Lunch Box – I absolutely love this lunch box! It’s perfect for little ones with its fun snack spinner that features 5 compartments and an interactive button. It’s lightweight and ideal for school, daycare or camp, and it’s especially great for kids ages 3-10.

4. Bentgo Stainless Steel Box – This is a fantastic option for parents who want a sleek, durable and eco-friendly lunchbox. It’s perfect for packing a variety of foods without worrying about leaks or spills. The stainless steel material is easy to clean and doesn’t retain odors, making it a great choice for everyday use.
5. Bentgo Insulated Lunch Bag – I appreciate how well it maintains the temperature of both hot and cold items, and it’s roomy enough to fit a Bentgo Box with extra space for snacks.
6. Backpack and Lunch Bag – I love this budget-friendly combo! The backpack has a padded laptop compartment, ample pockets and durable, adjustable straps.

Lunchbox Accessories for Kids

Beyond the basics, the right accessories can elevate your lunch packing game. From cute and functional to practical and eco-friendly, these accessories help keep everything organized and add a touch of fun to your child’s lunch experience. Explore these must-have additions to make packing lunches easier and more enjoyable for both you and your little one.

7. Bentgo Utensil Kit – This kit includes a spoon and a fork, and is perfect for little hands. Plus, they’re easy to clean and resistant to bending, so they stand up to even the most enthusiastic eaters.
8. Silicone Cups (Rectangular) – These are fantastic for keeping snacks and sides organized and fresh. The rectangular ones are perfect for sliced veggies or cheese sticks, while the circular cups work great for fruits or dips. I recommend using these cups because they’re flexible, durable and dishwasher-safe. They also come in bright colors, making them a fun addition to any lunchbox!
9. Reusable Ice Packs – Keep perishables fresh with reusable ice packs. These are especially useful if your child’s lunchbox doesn’t have built-in insulation. I like to use these ice packs because they’re slim enough to fit into any lunchbox and effective at keeping everything chilled until lunchtime.

10. Thermos Water Bottle – I love its durable design and the fact that it keeps drinks cold for hours. The leak-proof lid ensures no spills in the lunchbox or backpack, and it’s dishwasher-safe—perfect for those of us who dislike doing the dishes.
11. Lunch Box Jokes for Kids – These little cards feature jokes and are a great way to brighten up your child’s day. Plus, you can even personalize some with your own messages to let them know you’re thinking of them.
12. Uncrustables Cookie Cutter – Perfect for cutting sandwiches into fun shapes, making lunchtime more exciting. I recommend this cutter because it’s easy to use and adds a playful touch to your child’s lunch.

School Lunch Packing Tips

• Skip the Squares: Cookie cutters will transform your school lunch-making abilities! It’s amazing how simply cutting bread, fruit or cheese into a fun shape will get kids excited again over lunch.
• Sticks Rule: Skewers breathe new life into foods like tortellini or ravioli, so don’t hesitate to ditch the forks and grab the skewers! Pro Tip: Use Lollipop sticks rather than wooden skewers to avoid sharp edges.
• Beyond the Bread: Store-bought mini pancakes or waffles are an amazing alternative to sliced bread for sandwiches. Similarly, apple rings can be stuck together with nut butter for a fruit-filled option.
• Plan Ahead: Make a weekly meal plan to streamline packing and ensure variety. Prep ingredients or make meals in advance to save time on busy mornings.

How to Avoid the Picky Eaters’ Club

• Kids in the Kitchen: The more involvement children have in making their lunch, the higher chance they’re going to eat it.
• New Food? No Prob!: I like to sneak a new food into my boys’ lunch boxes whenever possible, but I never draw attention to it. The bigger deal you make about a food, the more aversion they will have to trying it.
• Make Eating an Activity: I always leave something disassembled on my kids’ plates and have them “finish the cooking” at the table or at school. Examples include serving Parmesan cheese on the side of pasta so they can sprinkle it on top.
• Make-Ahead, Stress Less: Save yourself time in the morning, whether that’s cutting fruit a night in advance, putting crackers in a bag… literally anything to save yourself a minute will ease the stress of morning rush hour!