How to Upgrade School Lunches with Cookie Cutters
Go far, far beyond cookies. (OK, one cookie won't hurt.)
No matter how hard you try to hold onto summer right now, there’s no denying that another school year is fast approaching. And, sure, there are fun things that go hand in hand with the fall semester, like football (hello, chips and dips) and apple-picking (crisps, crumbles, pies!). But if you feel a sense of dread at the thought of packing lunches, I feel your pain.
Because the truth is, you can love your kids and enjoy sending them off to school with a nutritious meal five days a week and also hate opening up a lunchbox at the end of the day only to find a barely touched sandwich, a half-eaten apple and a warm cheese stick. Are you with me? Something’s gotta give this year, and I think my kids will agree that we could all use a little extra fun — so let’s start with their lunches. A little something special, a la cookie cutters, just might give you a positive outlook about the packing and they might even be inspired to start eating.
Sandwiches
Let's start with a common main: sandwiches! Do you have round cookie or biscuit cutters already on hand? Look at them in a whole new light and break them out when you're making lunch. They can turn a basic PB&J into an adorable piggy in no time. If you're not ready to get creative on your own just yet, there are plenty of fun sandwich cutters available online. Please puzzle enthusiasts, animal lovers, crust haters and more.
Cookie Cutters To Use
Drinks
Keeping kids hydrated is no easy task. Do you have a favorite tumbler or bottle? Exactly! I know my kids are always more willing to drink water when it's cold and in a bottle they like (translation: one that's insulated and not too heavy). Water can get a little boring, though. Use cookie cutters to cut fruit into fun shapes, then pack them in a container and let your kids flavor their water at lunchtime. It's the easiest way to make water the most delicious drink ever.
Sides
It's easy to focus on the main lunch item, but the sides deserve some attention too. Cheese is a great way to add some extra protein to your kid's lunch, and a nice hard cheese like Cheddar can easily be cut into so many fun shapes.
Cutout cheese is great on its own, but pair it with veggies and you have perfect all-in-one bites. Mind. Blown. Little ones will devour these perfectly sized sides way before the bell rings.
Sweets
Whatever you do, don't forget about dessert. (What kid doesn't have room for dessert?!) Use this opportunity to show your kiddo some extra love and include a sweet heart-shaped cookie to top off the meal. I have a feeling you won't mind this left over at the end of the day.
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