Nutrition Notes: Lunchbox Makeover

As summer winds down, it is almost time to reset those alarm clocks and pack this year's school supplies for the upcoming school year! The first few weeks of school are a fun time for kids to catch up on summer stories with classmates and get back into their learning routine. Make sure the whole family has the perfect fuel in their lunchbox to keep them going through the day. It is easy to get in a rut when you're packing the same lunch day after day. This year, change it up! Try incorporating a few of these tips to make sure this year's lunches won't be traded at the lunch table.Find a good reusable lunchbox.There are so many different styles of lunchboxes now, so you are sure to find one that fits your style. Whether it be the bento box, collapsible lunchbox or the classic lunch cooler, find one that works for you, and make sure to stock up on a few quality reusable storage containers that fit inside your lunchbox.Make the time.Once you get home from the grocery store, dedicate some time to do all of the food prep work for the week. This includes all of your slicing, peeling or cooking and then separating it into individualized serving containers, so they are ready to go for your lunch. You can even save by purchasing items in bulk and then placing individual serving sizes in their own containers at home.Have fun.Try something "out of the box" by switching out the classic PB & J sandwich for a wrap or pita. Try a couple of these quick and healthy lunch ideas.Include a snack.Once that afternoon hunger strike hits, be prepared! Bring along a few snacks that can be stored in the fridge for the week at work, so you always have a couple go-to options. Try a couple of these easy and healthy snack ideas.All of these tips can be incorporated into the whole family's routine. It takes some time to turn healthy changes into habits, but by having the whole family involved in the process, it can be a fun way to have a few extra hands help out in the kitchen. Do you have any creative lunch box makeover ideas? Share a picture or idea with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!