This year I vowed not to let my daughter eat the mystery meals provided at school. God bless them, I know they think they're doing a good job--following the FDA guidelines and all--but that just doesn't cut it for my family anymore. I've been making low-carb meals for my family for three years (with the occasional bread and pasta for my carb-eaters), but I've tried to move more and more toward more grain-free and organic cooking (as much as I can afford!).
The aftermath of school lunches was wearing us out last year. My daughter has always been extremely--susceptible?--to sugar and it's ability take her from a calm, sweet child to--well, let's just say we have to send her to her room much less often when we keep a good check on her sugar intake.
I'm am no longer okay with letting someone else dictate my child's moods. It hurts me deeply to think how many children are getting labeled with ADHD and other behavioral problems when a lot of these issues could easily be solved by a carefully controlled diet. The willingness of doctors and parents to just pop a pill in a kids' mouth instead of taking the time to do a little research really irks me. No, it REALLY irks me. :(
So I'm into it five days of home lunches now, and other than me getting accustomed to being up extra early to prepare 2 lunches and 3 breakfasts every day, it's going really well!
I'm am no longer okay with letting someone else dictate my child's moods. It hurts me deeply to think how many children are getting labeled with ADHD and other behavioral problems when a lot of these issues could easily be solved by a carefully controlled diet. The willingness of doctors and parents to just pop a pill in a kids' mouth instead of taking the time to do a little research really irks me. No, it REALLY irks me. :(
So I'm into it five days of home lunches now, and other than me getting accustomed to being up extra early to prepare 2 lunches and 3 breakfasts every day, it's going really well!
The Lunchbox!
| My first order of business was to find a system that didn't involve tons of tiny dishes and disposable containers every day. I don't want to wash them, and Mother Nature doesn't want to digest them. I came across this little container from Systema. I wish it had more sections, and I'm keeping my eye out for more affordable options, but this is working good for us right now. |   {Affiliate Link} |
As you can see from the picture, I've been choosing lots of finger foods. My daughter has been relatively pleased, and it's not a huge strain on the budget. Honestly, I'd be happy to pay twice the price for a healthy lunch provided at school. Maybe someday they'll give us more options--that would be awesome.
I've been explaining to her how to eat a colorful meal to know she's getting a variety of vitamins and minerals. She thinks it's pretty cool.
Here's a little list of some easy finger foods (plus they're mostly raw, so there's another great health benefit!):
I've been explaining to her how to eat a colorful meal to know she's getting a variety of vitamins and minerals. She thinks it's pretty cool.
Here's a little list of some easy finger foods (plus they're mostly raw, so there's another great health benefit!):
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These are just a few of what I've packed for lunches so far. After school I check to see what was left over and adjust the amount accordingly as we go. I pack this box in her insulated lunch box along with ice pack. Just a little tip--you might be tempted to include a toothpick for finger foods, but I guarantee it will be used for no good at school. Best to include a less-light-saber-y looking utensil. ;)
For her drink she either gets milk at school (which I'm not thrilled about), or I send a bottle of water (to which I add a bit lemon and lime juice and a dash of stevia).
As I tell my Celia, I want my kiddo to made out of healthy things, not chemicals and food coloring.
Happy lunching. :)
For her drink she either gets milk at school (which I'm not thrilled about), or I send a bottle of water (to which I add a bit lemon and lime juice and a dash of stevia).
As I tell my Celia, I want my kiddo to made out of healthy things, not chemicals and food coloring.
Happy lunching. :)
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