Kids love bologna sandwiches with chips or a grilled cheese with canned ravioli but these kids’ lunches can be very unhealthy. Keeping children happy at lunch ensures they will eat what is given to them but keeping it healthy is only a matter of changing a few things without them even realizing it.

Instead of regular bologna try chicken or turkey bologna. Add some lettuce, tomato or cheese to the sandwich as well. These add a little taste and by changing it around can give them something a little different with every sandwich. Use mustard or ketchup instead of mayonnaise for a healthier sandwich.

We all know those salty chips are unhealthy but there are great alternatives available today. Baked chips are readily available in stores. Baked tortillas or even pita chips can make a lunch much healthier. Add a dip such as bean dip, salsa or hummus to five those baked chips a little pizzazz. Give them raw vegetables with a dip on the side instead of chips for a change of pace.

A warm lunch is a great place to substitute healthier foods. Instead of opening that can of spaghetti boil up some whole wheat angel pasta. Make your own sauce with vegetables included. Give it a little kick by adding some ground turkey to the sauce. This type of alternative has less salt and includes vegetables which can be difficult to incorporate into a child’s meal.

Instead of the traditional grilled cheese try toasted cheese bread. Place some cheese on a piece of whole wheat bread or pita bread and slide it in the broiler or toaster oven. If that doesn’t satisfy their craving for grilled cheese, try using a healthy cooking spray instead of butter when making them. Add some sliced chicken, turkey or lean ham to make the sandwich a little different each time.

Drinks can also be made much healthier for your children. We all know that sodas and some fruit juices are not healthy. Giving your child natural fruit juices such as orange juice are much better. A glass of orange juice a day can make a big difference in your child’s health. Just don’t over due it. Remember that water is a great drink of choice. Add some ice and some lemon or lime to give water a little kick. Cold herbal teas can also be a way of including a healthy drink into your child’s healthy lunch routine.

Find more healthy lunch time ideas at Menu Planning Central

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