YOU AND ME PRE-SCHOOL
Healthy Lunchboxes
Why is a healthy lunchbox important?
Spending the day learning and playing requires the right sort of fuel!
Your child will be very active throughout the morning, so it is important that their lunch provides the nutrients needed to refuel and recharge. Good nutrition has been shown to support concentration, improve learning and encourage healthy physical growth and development.
What should be in a lunchbox?
A good lunchbox includes food from three groups:
Carbohydrates for energy
(e.g. bread, pasta, wraps, rice, crackers)
Protein for growth
(e.g. cheese, eggs, beans, lean meats, yoghurt)
Fruit & Vegetables for vitamins
(e.g. cucumber sticks, berries, cherry tomatoes)
Is there anything I should avoid?
Young children need a varied, nutritious diet to support growth, development and learning. Foods high in salt, sugar and additives should be avoided where possible. Please do not include sweets in lunchboxes and limit items such as crisps and cakes. Instead, choose wholesome foods that will keep your child energised throughout the day.
What sort of lunchbox should I use?
We are unable to refrigerate lunchboxes or heat up food, so we recommend using an insulated lunch bag or box or a thermos where appropriate. Please be sure to include an ice pack during warmer weather to keep food fresh, clearly name your child's lunchbox and any containers and include a spoon or fork if needed.
Top Tips
Start with small portions - children can always ask for more.
Involve your child - letting them choose a fruit or help to pack.
Mix familiar with new - one favourite with one new bite at a time.
Vary the contents daily - the same food everyday can become dull.
Our Healthy Lunchbox Leaflet can be found here. It contains useful information and suggestions for suitable items to include in your child’s lunchbox.