As a caregiver, there are a lot of new things to get used to thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. A huge change for many is the idea of distance learning.
While at home, I want to make sure your child is still getting a nutritious (and yummy) lunch.
Your time is valuable, so below I have created 10 easy, healthy, and not-so-boring lunch ideas while your kids are learning at home:
Mini pizzas. Use pita bread, English muffins, or tortillas as the crust. Top with no sugar added tomato sauce, cheese, and his/her favorite veggies
Cheese and bean burrito. Fill the burrito with other favorite veggies, beans and/or meat
Scrambled eggs. Nutritious and easy to make! Who said eggs are just for breakfast?!
Tacos. Create a mini taco bar with lettuce, beans, avocado, cheese, and ground turkey or ground beef
Waffles. Whether they are homemade or frozen, try adding peanut butter on them for extra protein. Who needs syrup when you have a healthy and delicious topping like peanut butter?
Finger foods. Offer a plate or bento box with healthy finger foods such as, fruit, vegetables, cheese cubes, nuts etc.
Spaghetti muffins. This easy recipe can be made ahead of time and is a great way to sneak in some extra veggies
Peanut butter and banana roll-up. Quick, easy, and protein-packed. This is a good one that usually requires little supervision to make
Greek yogurt bowls. Greek yogurt is so healthy and has almost double the amount of protein as compared to regular yogurt. Make it exciting and top it off with fresh fruit, honey, and granola. You may even trick them into thinking they're having dessert for lunch!
Egg muffins. These are great to make ahead and freeze well. You can sneak in some extra veggies or meats, too! Check out the recipe here
Make sure to fill the house with healthy options for when the kids go to reach for a snack. This includes washed and ready-to-eat fruits and veggies, nuts, trail mix, cheese, yogurts etc.
Don't forget... This is a difficult time for all of us. It is OK to offer a special treat once in a while! I recommend getting the kids involved and bake something from scratch that you can enjoy as a family! Maybe even make it a weekly Friday night tradition.
Until next time,
Mandi