Eating a healthy lunch will help keep your children alert and ready to learn as they move into their afternoon. Unfortunately, we often fall short when it comes to offering nutritious meals. Start by teaching your child to make good meal choices when possible. Some excellent and easy lunch options include hearty soups, salads (try to use a fat free or low fat dressing,) fruit, and sandwiches using whole grain breads.

Follow up:

Fruits are best when served fresh. Using a canned fruit is an option, but be sure to look for fruit packed in its own juice or labeled "no added sugar." You can rinse canned fruit and vegetables in order to cut any added salt. Don't forget, when cooking dinner, plan for leftovers to have for lunch the next day.

Encourage your child to choose water over milk, juices or soda as their drink choice. Keeping the brain well hydrated will help them learn more easily.

The Good Housekeeping website ( www.goodhousekeeping.com/recipefinder/ ) offers 30 great ideas for school lunches. Here is a sampling of some of their recipes.....
Tuna Salad ideas http://tinyurl.com/2u6zso5
Mozzarella and Tomato sandwich http://tinyurl.com/3yqcd4m
Turkey-Melon Wraps http://tinyurl.com/39pdts6
Chicken Noodle Soup http://tinyurl.com/cayrsk
Whole Wheat Sugar Cookies http://tinyurl.com/3yqgygz
Apple Crumb Squares http://tinyurl.com/3499xss