For many of you Moms out there, you are in the full swing of back-to-school. And with that comes a focus on lunch for your kids. My 2 oldest children attend public school; they occasionally get the prepared lunch in the cafeteria, but most of the time, I pack their lunch. My youngest is in preschool 3 days a week, so that is exclusively packed lunches.
In the stores, we are bombarded with prepackaged, individual portions for lunch box convenience: small little bags of cookies and crackers, fruit roll-ups, juice boxes, string cheese. While I do occasionally splurge on a few of these items (the healthiest choices, of course!), I try to steer clear. In the long run, these products end up costing more than if you just bought them in bulk. Also, the amount of packaging is fairly excessive, contributing to unnecessary waste.
So, what are some ways to be eco-conscious with our kids lunches?
1. Re-Usable Water Bottle. I've spoken many times about my love for stainless steel water bottles (like the cute ones from Klean Kanteen). It's imperative to make his a regular, everyday habit, both in lunch boxes and at home. We take our bottles everywhere and refill them at water fountains and restaurants. My kids barely know what plastic water bottles and Capri Suns are.
2. Invest In Quality, Reusable Containers. There is every size and shape imaginable when it comes to compact, portable food containers. I'm in love with the "Kids Konserve" line . They've got everything you need to complete your eco-friendly lunch box, with items like water bottles, divided food containers, food "kozies" (in lieu of plastic baggies), and the cute mini containers seen below.
My kids also love "crushers", pureed food in squeezable containers. But buying prepared ones are very expensive! That's why I also love the cute, reusable pouches from Yummi Pouch (also see below). They come in tons of cute designs, are dishwasher safe, and BPA free. I'm hosting a giveaway of the ones seen in the photo below, so be sure to enter at the end of this article!
3. Make Your Own Versions of Snacks. So many of those prepackaged items that kids love can be made at home. Toss your own trail mix together with a mix of nuts, chocolate chips, sunflower seeds, and dried fruit. Cut out your cheese with mini cookie-cutters in place of string cheese. Use a kabob stick to stack fruit instead of fruit leather.
4. Teach Your Kids To Love The Earth, Too. Make sure that your children are reusing what they can from their lunch boxes. Have them save that plastic spoon for one more use. Have them save baggies or containers that can be used again. Give them one napkin, not 3. Make them an important part of the process.
And now the best part....the giveaway! Up for grabs is a set of 3 Yummi Pouches (as seen above) in the brights line. They are perfect for pureed fruits, smoothies, baby food and applesauce. This contest is open to residents of the USA only.
