Save Money on Your Child's School Lunch

Schools are making better efforts to have not only better-tasting school lunches, but healthier ones, too. However, many kids (and moms) still prefer to have their children bring a nutritious lunch from home.

Kids love variety and this one very strong reason why children tend to like having the lunch offered by the school. Lunches brought from home can offer the same varieties that appeal to kids, but with a smaller price tag that appeals to parents.

Start off by simply asking your kids what their favorite lunch consists of. If you send foods that your children enjoy, you are more likely to get their cooperation when it's time to help pack - and eat - the lunches.

If your child likes foods that need refrigeration, be sure to purchase an ice pack for their lunch and an insulated lunch bag. Seal the ice pack in a plastic bag before putting it in the freezer. The plastic bag keeps this fluid from touching your child's food.

Most school cafeterias have microwave ovens available for student use. Dinner leftovers make excellent lunch fare. Invest in microwave-safe bowls to store your child's lunch.

Kids love sugar and will want something sweet in their lunch. Fresh fruit offers a sugar boost that is better than a candy bar. Include a cup of fresh strawberries, apples, oranges, or whatever fruit is in season. If they need more sweetness, add a cup of yogurt to use as a fruit dip. One fun option is to freeze the fruit the night before and put it into the lunch bag still frozen. That way, your child will enjoy "slushie" fruit for lunch.

Kids won't eat anything that requires too much work. Cut their peanut butter and jelly sandwich into bite-sized pieces for easier handling. If your kids are older and health-conscious, serve a turkey and veggie delight in pita bread. Soft chicken tacos or ham roll-ups are delicious also.