7 Creative and Healthy Lunch Ideas for Kids

1. DIY Taco Bento Box

Who doesn’t love tacos? Make lunchtime exciting by creating a DIY taco bento box. Fill small compartments with whole wheat tortilla wraps, shredded chicken, cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a small container of guacamole or yogurt-based sour cream. Your child can assemble their tacos right at the lunch table, making it a hands-on experience.

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat tortilla wraps (cut into smaller pieces)
• Shredded cooked chicken (can be leftover from dinner)
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Guacamole or yogurt-based sour cream (in a separate container)

Benefits:

This lunchbox is packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. The variety of colors and the ability to build their own tacos will keep your child engaged and excited about eating their lunch.

Pro Tip:

Add a few tortilla chips or corn kernels for a crunch factor, which makes the taco box even more interesting.

2. Rainbow Veggie and Hummus Wrap

Colorful food often piques kids’ interest, and these veggie-packed wraps are not only colorful but also loaded with nutrition. Use a whole-grain tortilla and fill it with various vegetables like red bell pepper, shredded carrot, spinach, cucumber, and purple cabbage. Spread a layer of hummus on the tortilla before adding the veggies, and roll it up tightly.

Ingredients:

• Whole-grain tortilla
• Hummus (as a spread)
• Red bell pepper strips
• Shredded carrots
• Spinach leaves
• Cucumber sticks
• Shredded purple cabbage

Benefits:

This wrap provides a perfect blend of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, along with plant-based protein from the hummus. It’s a great way to sneak more vegetables into your child’s diet.

Pro Tip:

Cut the wrap into pinwheel-style slices to make it more visually appealing and easier for small hands to manage.

3. Mini Pancake Kabobs 

Transform breakfast favorites into a fun lunch option by creating mini pancake kabobs. Use small, fluffy pancakes and alternate them with pieces of fruit on a skewer or toothpick. Strawberries, blueberries, banana slices, and even a few marshmallows can make the kabobs irresistible.

Ingredients:

• Mini pancakes (homemade or store-bought)
• Strawberries (halved)
• Blueberries
• Banana slices
• Marshmallows (optional)

Benefits:

This is a balanced lunch option that provides carbohydrates for energy, vitamins from the fruits, and a small indulgence with the marshmallows. Serve it with a small container of Greek yogurt for dipping to add extra protein.

Pro Tip:

For added nutrients, make the pancakes using whole wheat flour, or mix in mashed bananas or grated apples for natural sweetness.

4. Pizza Pita Pockets

Turn a classic favorite into a healthier lunchbox treat with pizza pita pockets. Use whole wheat pita bread, and stuff it with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various veggies. Your kids will enjoy the cheesy pizza taste, but with the added nutrition of fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat pita bread
• Marinara sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and olives

Benefits:

Pizza pita pockets are rich in calcium, fiber, and vitamins. The use of whole wheat pita and plenty of veggies ensures your child gets a hearty and nutritious meal.

Pro Tip:

You can also add diced cooked chicken or turkey pepperoni to increase the protein content.

5. Turkey and Cheese Sushi Rolls

No, not raw fish—this kid-friendly sushi is made with tortillas, sliced turkey, and cheese! Simply lay a whole wheat tortilla flat, layer with cream cheese, sliced turkey, and a slice of cheese. Roll it up tightly, and then cut it into bite-sized pieces, resembling sushi rolls. This finger food is easy to eat and looks exciting.

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat tortilla
• Cream cheese
• Sliced turkey breast
• Sliced cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works well)

Benefits:

These rolls are high in protein and calcium, helping keep your little one full and energized. The fun sushi-like presentation is also a great way to make lunch fun and interactive.

Pro Tip:

Add a thin layer of spinach or shredded carrots to sneak in some veggies.

6. Fruit and Yogurt Parfait

Sometimes a sweet lunch is just what kids want, and a fruit and yogurt parfait is both delicious and healthy. Layer Greek yogurt with fresh berries, granola, and a drizzle of honey. You can even add some crushed nuts for extra crunch. Serve in a spill-proof container to keep it neat.

Ingredients:

• Greek yogurt
• Mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Granola
• Honey (optional)
• Crushed nuts (optional)

Benefits:

Greek yogurt is rich in protein and probiotics, which are great for digestion. The berries provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, while granola adds fiber to keep your child full.

Pro Tip:

To avoid sogginess, pack the granola separately and let your child add it when they’re ready to eat.

7. Cheese and Veggie Quesadilla

Cheese quesadillas are a classic that most kids love. To make it healthier, use a whole wheat tortilla and add in some finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini. Grill until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden brown. Cut into wedges and pack with a small container of salsa for dipping.

Ingredients:

• Whole wheat tortilla
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• Finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini
• Salsa (for dipping)

Benefits:

This meal provides a balanced amount of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Adding veggies boosts the nutritional content without compromising the taste.

Pro Tip:

You can also add black beans for extra protein and fiber.

Tips for Packing Kids’ Lunches

Now that we’ve got the ideas flowing, here are some tips for making sure your kids’ lunches are not only nutritious but also fun and easy to eat:

• Make It Colorful: Kids are more likely to eat something that looks visually appealing. Try to incorporate a variety of colors by including fruits and veggies in different shades.
• Keep Portions Kid-Sized: Large portions can be overwhelming for children. Small, bite-sized pieces are easier to handle and eat.
• Use Fun Shapes and Containers: Cutting sandwiches or fruits into fun shapes can make a big difference. Bento boxes with small compartments are perfect for separating different foods and keeping everything organized.
• Add a Little Treat: Including a small treat, like a couple of chocolate chips or a small cookie, can make lunch more enjoyable. It’s all about balance—a little indulgence can motivate kids to eat the healthier parts of their lunch.
• Get Kids Involved: Letting your kids help in the kitchen is a great way to get them excited about their lunches. Whether it’s choosing the ingredients or assembling the meal, involvement fosters ownership, and they’ll be more likely to eat what they helped make.