Lunchtime can be a bit of a challenge when your child is still in preschool. You want them to have something healthy to eat, but you also don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen every day. These simple lunch ideas will help make packing their lunch a breeze.
Check out these easy and healthy preschool lunch ideas that will keep your little one fueled up for the rest of the day!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich.
A classic PB&J is always a hit with kids. You can use any bread, but whole wheat or multigrain bread is a healthier option. Be sure to use all-natural peanut butter and jelly for the most nutritious sandwich possible.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
Grilled cheese sandwiches are another lunchtime favorite. Again, you can use any bread, but whole wheat or multigrain bread is best. Choose healthy cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss, and avoid processed cheese slices.
Turkey and Cheese Sandwich.
Turkey and cheese sandwiches are a great way to sneak some extra protein into your child’s diet. Use whole wheat or multigrain bread, and choose a healthy cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or Swiss. You can add veggies like lettuce, tomato, or cucumber for an extra nutritional boost.
See also: Preschool Snacks to Send with Your Child
Hummus and Veggie Wrap.
Hummus and veggie wraps are healthy and flavorful options for preschoolers. Use a whole wheat tortilla and spread it on some all-natural hummus. Then add your child’s favorite veggies like lettuce, tomato, cucumber, or carrots. Roll up the tortilla and cut it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
Chicken Salad Sandwich.
Chicken salad is another excellent option for a healthy lunchtime sandwich. Use shredded chicken breast instead of canned chicken to keep it low in fat and sodium. Add some chopped celery and onion for flavor and crunch, then mix with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise. Serve on whole wheat or multigrain bread with lettuce and tomato.
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Egg Salad Sandwich.
Egg salad is another tasty option for lunchtime sandwiches. Use hard-boiled eggs to keep the fat content down, then mix with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, chopped celery, onion, and pickles for flavor and crunch. Serve on whole wheat or multigrain bread with lettuce and tomato.
Fruit and Cheese Plate.
A simple fruit and cheese plate is always a hit with kids, and it’s also super easy to prep ahead of time. Choose your child’s favorite fruits like strawberries, apples, bananas, or grapes, then pair them with some cubed cheddar cheese or another type of cheese they love. You can also add some whole wheat crackers for extra crunch.
Fruit Smoothie.
A fruit smoothie is another great quick and easy lunchtime snack option. You can make your own at home or purchase premade smoothies from your local grocery store, then pack it along with a spoon in a reusable lunch container.
Homemade Trail Mix.
A homemade trail mix is another great option for preschoolers. Choose a variety of your child’s favorite nuts and dried fruits, then add some mini chocolate chips or other fun mix-ins to keep things interesting. Pack it up in a resealable bag or reusable lunch container along with some whole grain pretzels or whole wheat crackers.
Peanut Butter and Apple Slices.
If your child loves peanut butter, apple slices paired with a smear of all-natural peanut butter are a simple but tasty lunchtime snack. You can also try spreading on some Nutella, another favorite with kids. Add in plain yogurt or dried fruit for extra protein and nutrients to keep your little one fueled up until dinner.
Chicken Nuggets.
Chicken nuggets are easy to include protein in your child’s lunch. You can pack them with a dipping sauce on the side or add them to a salad or pasta dish.
Fruit Cup.
A fruit cup is a healthy and easy way to add sweetness to your child’s lunch. You can buy them pre-made at the store or make your own at home with your child’s favorite fruits.
Yogurt Cup.
Yogurt is another good source of protein, and it’s easy to pack in a lunchbox. You can buy individual yogurt cups or make your own by adding fruit and granola to plain yogurt.
Veggie Sticks.
Veggie sticks are a great way to get your child to eat their vegetables. Pack them with a dip on the side, or add them to soup or pasta dishes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Cubes.
Cheese cubes are a simple and tasty way to get protein in your child’s lunch. Pair with crackers, veggie sticks, or fruit for a complete meal.​
Whatever your child’s favorite lunch options, there are plenty of simple and healthy options that you can easily pack in your lunchbox. Whether it’s a sandwich or wrap, some fruit, cheese, or a homemade trail mix, adding just a few nutritious ingredients will ensure that your little one is fueled up with the energy they need to get through the day!​